When planning for the future, having a legally recognized Will in the UAE is essential—especially for expats. Two common types of wills available in Dubai are the DIFC Will and the Dubai Court Will. While both serve the purpose of distributing your assets, their processes, applicability, and legal framework vary significantly.

In this blog, we’ll explain the key differences between DIFC and Dubai Court Wills, so you can make an informed decision based on your needs.

Overview of Will Systems in Dubai

Dubai provides two recognized legal platforms for will registration:

• DIFC Wills Service Centre (WSC)

• Dubai Courts Notary

Each has its own jurisdiction, requirements, and advantages.

What is a DIFC Will?

The DIFC Will is registered with the Dubai International Financial Centre’s Wills Service Centre, which is governed by Common Law, providing expats more flexibility over asset distribution.

Key Features:

• Only available for non-Muslim expats

• Governed by English Common Law principles

• Covers assets located in Dubai & RAK

• Allows guardianship provisions for children

• Registered in English

• No Sharia law application

What is a Dubai Court Will?

The Dubai Court Will is governed by UAE Federal Law, and is a popular choice due to its cost-effectiveness and accessibility. However, it is subject to UAE’s personal status and inheritance laws, including Sharia if not specified otherwise.

Key Features:

• Available to both Muslim and non-Muslim residents

• Governed by Civil Law/Sharia law

• Covers assets across UAE

• Registered in Arabic

• Must be notarized in person or via e-notary platform

DIFC Will vs Dubai Court Will – Comparison Table

Which Will Is Better for You?

Choose DIFC Will if:

• You’re a non-Muslim expat.

• You want complete control over asset distribution.

• You need the will to be in English and governed by Common Law.

• You plan to cover assets only in Dubai or RAK.

Choose Dubai Court Will if:

• You prefer a cost-effective option.

• You want to cover assets across the UAE.

• You are okay with Sharia law implications (or plan to opt-out as a non-Muslim).

• You are fluent in Arabic or have proper legal translation support.

Why Legal Translation Matters in Wills

For Dubai Court Wills, legal translation plays a critical role, especially when you’re an expat or need to submit documents in Arabic. Errors or misinterpretations in translation can lead to delays or even the rejection of your will.

That’s why Al-Hamd Legal Translation LLC, a trusted name in Dubai, offers certified legal translation services for:

• Will documentation

• Power of Attorney

• Affidavits and contracts

• Guardianship letters

• And more

Our team ensures accurate, MOJ-compliant translations and can even assist with notary coordination and registration.

Key Takeaways

• DIFC Wills are ideal for non-Muslims looking for flexibility and English documentation.

• Dubai Court Wills are cost-efficient and cover assets across the UAE but come with more legal structure.

• Proper legal translation is non-negotiable when registering Dubai Court Wills.

• Al-Hamd Legal Translation provides comprehensive support from translation to attestation and notary coordination.

Ready to Secure Your Will?

Whether you choose DIFC or Dubai Court Will, ensure your documents are legally sound and correctly translated. Al-Hamd Legal Translation LLC offers the best power of attorney and will documentation services in Dubai, with expert guidance at every step.

Explore Our Will Registration Services in Dubai