The DIFC Wills and Probate Registry have announced changes to the rules of will registrations. The new rules have significantly widened the scope and applicability of Will Registration in the UAE. The new rule which came into effect on 1st July 2019, will now accommodate all residents and investors assets in UAE and assets held outside the UAE.
It is a welcoming step taken by the UAE government and well-appreciated by all the expatriate communities working and investing in the UAE. Earlier non-Muslims had a difficult time registering their Will in the UAE. Now the rule will ensure a secured future to the family of expats, irrespective of their religion.
“With almost eight million expatriates residing in the UAE, the Government of Dubai and the DIFC Courts recognized the need for an innovative legal solution for non-Muslims that provides peace of mind for residents and investors, as well as enhance Dubai and the UAE’s attractiveness as a destination for expatriate talent and investment. Recognizing the increased demand, we have now amended our rules to expand the remit of this public service to assets across all the emirates of the UAE and beyond,” said Zaki Bin Azmi, Chief Justice, Chief Registrar, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts.
Some of the salient features of the new rules are as follows:
1. The new law came into effect on July 1, 2019.
2. Rules are the same for Muslims and non-Muslims.
3. The testator needs to be over the age of 21 to register a Full DIFC Will.
4. Accommodate all resident and investor assets across all the Emirates as well as assets outside the UAE. (This was earlier limited to assets held by the non-Muslim testator in the Emirates of Dubai and/or Ras Al Khaimah only)
5. The conclusive Will registered in the UAE will be valid anywhere in the world
For any further information on the new Rules or our legal assistance with registration or amendment of your Will, you can contact us at enquiry@bineiduae.com or call us 600 544 009.