If you have assets in the UAE, making a will can help ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. However, you must be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding wills in the UAE. A skilled will drafter can ensure that your will is up to date and that it follows the UAE laws. This legal document allows you to transfer assets to the name of the deceased. Non-Muslims, however, should be aware of some rules. Read this article to know about the requirements for DIFC probate in UAE.
Getting DIFC probate:
The DIFC Courts have introduced a new Wills and Probate Registry in the UAE. This registry has already registered over 3,000 wills and issued ten Probate Orders. This new registry is the first of its kind in the MENA region, and it is designed to respect the cultural differences that distinguish one region from another.
The legal framework for probate in the DIFC is based on ‘common law’ principles, which means that a testator’s wishes are respected. In addition, he or she is not forced to pass down specific legal rules regarding heirship. In the future, the Registry plans to create a set of precedents for inheritance cases in the DIFC.
Rules for non-Muslim testators:
The DIFC Courts have adopted rules to facilitate the registration of non-Muslim wills in the UAE. This enables non-Muslim testators to distribute their assets as per their wishes and avoid any conflict with Sharia law. Moreover, the DIFC Probate Registry ensures that the process of signing and registering a Will is fast and easy.
Before registering a will in DIFC, a testator must visit the Wills Service Centre and sign the will in the presence of an officer. The testator must bring at least one additional witness with them. This will minimize the possibility of validity challenges during the probate process.
Importance of having a will:
Having a will is not only necessary for UAE citizens, but it’s also a great way to protect your loved ones’ future. For example, a will can protect your loved ones from having to deal with legal disputes after you pass away. You can have your will notarized by a UAE notary.
A will allows you to specify how you would like your assets to be distributed. It can protect your family and ensure that your assets are distributed as you want them to. But you must ensure that your will complies with UAE laws and DIFC rules. An experienced lawyer can ensure that your will complies with these rules.