The UAE allows a broad range of individuals to register a Will, provided they meet certain basic legal criteria. To register a Will, a person must be:

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• At least 21 years old,
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• Of sound mind, and
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• Acting voluntarily and without undue influence.
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Beyond these core requirements, eligibility depends on residency status and asset location.

1. UAE Residents

Anyone holding a UAE residence visa—regardless of nationality or religion—may register a Will in any of the recognized jurisdictions:

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• ADJD (Abu Dhabi Judicial Department)
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• Dubai Courts
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• DIFC Wills Service Centre
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Residents commonly register Wills to cover local real estate, bank accounts, investments, business shares, and guardianship of minor children.

2. Non-Residents With UAE Assets

Non-residents who own assets in the UAE—such as property, bank accounts, or investments—may also register a Will.

DIFC is the most common choice for non-residents because:

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• The process is entirely online,
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• Wills are drafted and probated in English, and
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• One Will can cover assets in multiple countries.
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3. Muslims and Non-Muslims

Historically, Muslim expats faced restrictions, but since mid-2021, ADJD and Dubai Courts allow Muslim expatriates to register Wills.

This is a significant development, as it enables Muslims to opt out of default Sharia inheritance rules.

Non-Muslims have always been able to register Wills across all jurisdictions.

4. Married Couples and Parents

Couples may register:

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• Mirror Wills (two separate Wills with reciprocal terms), or
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• A joint Will (allowed in DIFC).
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Parents can also appoint temporary and permanent guardians for children under 21—one of the most important reasons expatriate families register a Will in the UAE.

Summary

You can register a Will in the UAE if you:

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• Are 21+,
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• Have full mental capacity, and
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• Either reside in the UAE or hold assets in the UAE.
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The system is designed to give both residents and non-residents full control over how their assets and family arrangements are handled, ensuring clarity and protection in a jurisdiction where the default rules may not reflect one’s wishes.