When registering a Will in the UAE, individuals can choose from three primary jurisdictions—ADJD, Dubai Courts, and DIFC. Each offers different advantages in terms of cost, process, language, and flexibility.
1. ADJD (Abu Dhabi Judicial Department)
Best for: Cost efficiency, full virtual process, expat Muslims
- Cost: AED 950
- Process: Fully virtual; no in-person visit required
- Language: Bilingual Will (English–Arabic)
- Probate: Conducted in Arabic
- Practical note: If the family prefers not to manage the Arabic probate process, a Power of Attorney can be issued to a representative.
- Special update: Since mid-2021, expat Muslims are allowed to register Wills at ADJD, making it the most popular option in this group.
- Timing: Quick registration, though appointment availability can involve a 5–6 week wait due to high demand.
2. Dubai Courts
Best for: Fastest appointment availability and walk-in registration
- Cost: AED 2,150 per Will
- Process: Very fast; usually completed within two days
- Language: Bilingual Will (English–Arabic)
- Probate: Conducted in Arabic
- Key advantage: Same-week appointments are usually available, unlike ADJD, which may have delays.
- Use case: Ideal for individuals needing quick registration or facing tight timelines.
3. DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre)
Best for: English-only Wills, international assets, and common-law structure
- Cost:
- AED 10,000 for a single Will
- AED 15,000 for a mirror Will (couple)
- (after the current 50% discount)
- Process: Fully virtual; no in-person attendance needed
- Language: Will and probate entirely in English
- Legal system: Common-law framework
- International capability: Allows inclusion of assets from multiple countries
- DIFC can issue an “execution approval” enabling probate in jurisdictions such as India, Singapore, Australia, the UK, and the US.
- Key advantage: Highest level of flexibility and simplicity for multinational families or globally diversified estates.
