In the UAE, expats face unique legal challenges when it comes to inheritance and probate. One critical area often overlooked is will registration. Without proper registration, foreign residents risk leaving their families entangled in costly and lengthy probate processes. This blog explores the top five mistakes expats make with UAE wills and offers expert-backed solutions to help you protect your assets and loved ones—powered by Al-Hamd Legal Translation, a trusted provider of legal documentation and court-approved translation services in Dubai.
1. Not Registering the Will with the Dubai Court (ADJD)
The Mistake: Many expats wrongly assume that their home country will automatically recognize their UAE assets. Others delay registering their will with the Dubai Courts or Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), believing it’s optional.
The Consequences:
The estate may be divided under Sharia Law, not your intended wishes.
Delays in asset distribution.
Increased legal costs for your heirs.
How to Prevent It:
Work with legal experts like Al-Hamd Legal Translation who specialize in will registration.
Ensure your will is translated, notarized, and submitted to the proper judicial authority (Dubai Court or ADJD).
Key Takeaway: A properly registered will is your only guarantee for asset distribution as per your wishes.
2. Using Unofficial or Untranslated Wills
The Mistake: Submitting a will in English or another language without a court-certified Arabic translation.
The Consequences:
The will may be rejected.
Legal delays and potential disputes among heirs.
Solution:
Use a MOJ-approved sworn translator like Al-Hamd to ensure the will meets court standards.
| Requirement | Why It Matters | Al-Hamd’s Role |
|---|---|---|
| Arabic Translation | Mandatory for court submission | MOJ-certified translators |
| Legal Drafting Format | Needs to match ADJD guidelines | Expert legal formatting |
| Notarization Support | Required for authentication | End-to-end documentation |
Key Takeaway: Courts only accept Arabic wills with official translation and formatting.
3. Assuming a DIFC Will Covers Everything
The Mistake: Relying solely on a DIFC Wills and Probate Registry (WPR) document, thinking it applies to all UAE assets.
What Expats Miss:
DIFC wills may not cover mainland or Abu Dhabi properties and assets.
Dubai Courts and ADJD might require separate local registration.
Fix It With:
Dual registration: One in DIFC (for common law protections), another with Dubai Court or ADJD for full coverage.
Legal translation of both for recognition across jurisdictions.
Key Takeaway: If you have assets across emirates, cover all legal bases by registering in both DIFC and local courts.
4. Delaying Will Registration Until It’s Too Late
The Mistake: “I’ll do it later.” Unfortunately, tomorrow isn’t promised.
Risks Include:
Passing away intestate (without a registered will)
Automatic application of Sharia-based inheritance rules
Frozen bank accounts and asset seizure
Solution:
Proactively register your will with the assistance of legal professionals.
Al-Hamd offers same-week processing for urgent cases.
“We’ve helped hundreds of clients in Dubai register wills within days – don’t wait for a crisis.” – Al-Hamd Legal Expert
Key Takeaway: Waiting puts your family’s future at risk. Register now, not later.
5. Not Consulting Legal Experts Familiar with UAE Inheritance Laws
The Mistake: Using a generic online template or foreign legal advisor unfamiliar with UAE inheritance laws.
Why It Fails:
Local courts follow specific procedural rules.
Format, witness requirements, and documentation must match UAE court expectations.
Why Al-Hamd is Different:
In-house team of court-approved legal translators and business setup advisors.
Direct liaison with Dubai Courts and ADJD.
Comprehensive legal documentation services including MOAs, POAs, and will translations.
Key Takeaway: UAE-specific legal support is not optional—it’s essential.
Final Thoughts: Safeguard Your Legacy with Expert Legal Support
Wills are about more than just paperwork—they’re about protecting your family, your legacy, and your peace of mind. Don’t let avoidable mistakes compromise everything you’ve built. Whether you’re registering a will with the Dubai Court or Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, having the right legal translation and submission process is crucial.
✅ Partner with Al-Hamd Legal Translation – your trusted guide in UAE will registration, legal translation, and documentation.
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