Who this is for

To register a DIFC Will is an option for Non-Muslim individuals with assets and/or minor children in the UAE who want certainty, testamentary freedom, and swift, English-language probate via the DIFC Courts Wills Service.

When to Register a DIFC Will

You own UAE real estate and/or UAE bank or investment accounts, and/or have children living in Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah.
You want English-language probate (DIFC) and the ability to freely choose your beneficiaries, executors, and guardians.

Time & cost (typical)

Timeline: Draft to registration commonly 3–60 working days once information is complete and an appointment is granted by DIFC.
Government fee: DIFC Courts Wills Service fee for a Single Full Will is AED 10,000 (payable at appointment booking).
Professional fee: Drafting and end-to-end support fees are quoted after scoping. Contact us at info@rubertpartners.com for a quotation.

Fees are set by the DIFC Wills Service and may change. We confirm the live fee at booking.

You’ll need

Passport copy (and Emirates ID if resident)
List of assets and intended beneficiaries, executors, and guardians
Real estate: Title Deed details
Bank / investments: institution name and account references
Guardianship: full names and contact details of guardians and substitutes

If you email us at info@rubertpartners.com, we will share a questionnaire to begin drafting.

Step-by-step

1) Scoping call (30–45 minutes)

We confirm: eligibility (non-Muslim, 21+), will type (Full / Property / Guardianship), guardianship needs, cross-border considerations, and any existing wills.
Output: scoped plan, document checklist, fixed quote, and target registration date.

2) First draft (2–4 working days from onboarding)

We prepare an English-law-style will meeting DIFC drafting standards, covering executors, gifts, residue, guardians, and funeral wishes (if applicable).
You review and provide feedback; we refine promptly until final approval.

3) Booking your DIFC Wills Service appointment

In-person or video appointment, subject to availability.
Government fee is collected at booking. A small non-refundable portion applies to cancellations.

4) Signing at DIFC Wills Service (usually online)

Bring valid ID. We provide two witnesses.
You sign under DIFC Wills Service procedures, streamlined and conducted in English.

5) After registration

You receive the registered will (soft copy).
We store files securely and can prepare asset schedules or manage future updates.

Outcome – Register a DIFC Will

A registered Single DIFC Full Will, probated through DIFC Courts with UAE-wide effect, providing clarity over asset distribution and guardianship when it matters most.

Key choices you’ll make (we guide you)

Executors: number, reserves, and location
Guardians: primary and substitutes
Gifts: specific legacies before the residue
Residue clause: beneficiaries and proportions
Back-ups: contingencies if someone cannot act
Letter of wishes: optional, non-binding guidance

Common pitfalls (and how we avoid them)

Missing guardians or substitutes: we ensure clear appointments.
Vague asset descriptions: we standardise and verify asset details.
Impractical executors: we structure workable solutions.
Conflicts with foreign wills: we coordinate jurisdictional scope.
Outdated wills: we recommend periodic reviews.

Register a DIFC Will – FAQs

Do I need separate wills for each emirate?
No. A DIFC Will can cover UAE assets across all emirates.

Can I update later?
Yes. DIFC allows paid and unpaid modifications, depending on the change.

What about ADJD?
ADJD is a valid alternative; we advise based on your circumstances.

Can a married couple use one will?
No. DIFC requires individual wills. Couples usually register mirror wills.

What if I’m Muslim?
This pathway is for non-Muslims. Alternative options are available.

Documents & data checklist

Passport (+ Emirates ID if resident)
Executor details (and reserves)
Guardian details (and substitutes)
Real estate information
Bank and investment details
Foreign wills (if any)

Tentative timeline at a glance

Day 0–1: Scoping and checklist
Day 2–4: Drafting and revisions
Day 5–8: Booking and DIFC signing
Post-signing: Registered will and aftercare

Timings depend on document readiness and appointment availability.

Why clients choose Rubert & Partners

DIFC-standard drafting designed for probate efficiency
Hands-on end-to-end support
Cross-border awareness
Clear guardianship planning

Ready to proceed?

Book a 15-minute scoping call with our team. We confirm fit, documents, and timelines—and handle the rest.

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For more content on Wills in the UAE, explore our publications and video guides. You can also access all publications here.

This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Fees and processes may change; we confirm current requirements before booking.