Why do you need to register will in Dubai, if you are not a Muslim?
In Dubai, if you are not Muslim, it is highly recommended to register a will to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. This is because, in the absence of a registered will, the distribution of assets for non-Muslims in the UAE may be governed by Sharia law, which can have specific rules about inheritance, often different from those in your home country.
Under Sharia law, there are strict guidelines regarding inheritance, which include fixed shares for family members, and it might not align with what non-Muslims typically expect or desire for their estate planning. By registering a will, non-Muslims can:
1. Avoid Sharia law: Non-Muslims can ensure that their estate is distributed as per their personal preferences, rather than the default Sharia rules that would otherwise apply.
2. Safeguard their family and heirs: A will ensures clarity and avoids potential conflicts regarding asset distribution, guardianship of children, and other matters of succession.
3. Make provisions for non-family members: Sharia law does not typically allow for inheritance to non-family members or charities. A will allows non-Muslims to leave assets to individuals or organizations outside the family structure.
4. Appoint guardianship for children: For non-Muslim expatriates, it is also critical to appoint guardians for their minor children through a will, as Sharia law has specific guidelines on this matter which might not align with the parents' wishes.
In Dubai, non-Muslims can register their wills with entities like the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry or the Dubai Courts, both offering mechanisms for non-Muslims to bypass Sharia law in inheritance matters and ensure their estate is managed according to their wishes.