Single Will
Registration
Plan how your assets are distributed and protect the people who matter most with a legally compliant Single Will in the UAE.
Why Estate Planning Matters in the UAE
Without a legally registered will, the distribution of assets after death may be handled according to Shariah Law. For many residents and expatriates, this may not align with their personal wishes.
Legal Protection
A Non-Sharia Single Will provides an option for non-Muslim residents to structure inheritance based on their own preferences.
Clear Documentation
By documenting your wishes clearly, you reduce uncertainty and simplify the legal process for your family.
Family Security
It ensures that your assets, property, and personal wishes are protected and your loved ones are supported.
What Is A Single Will?
A Single Will is a legal document created by one individual that outlines how their assets and responsibilities should be handled after their death. It allows a person to clearly state who will receive their assets, who will manage the estate, and how specific wishes should be carried out.
Distribution of property, including real estate and other owned assets
Allocation of financial accounts, such as bank accounts, investments, and savings
Personal belongings, including valuable or sentimental items
Digital assets, such as online accounts, digital media, or cryptocurrencies
Appointment of an executor to carry out your wishes
Should You Get A Single Will?
You are unmarried, divorced, or widowed and want to independently manage your estate planning
You are an expatriate living in the UAE with property, investments, or financial accounts
You want full control over asset distribution without needing to align decisions with another person
You have specific beneficiaries, such as friends, charities, or extended family members
You own property or investments in the UAE and want to clearly outline how they should be transferred
What Does A Single Will Cover?
Financial Assets
- Bank accounts
- Savings accounts
- Investment portfolios
- Stocks and bonds
- Business shares or financial interests
Property
- Residential properties
- Commercial real estate
- Land or property investments
- International property holdings
Personal Assets
- Vehicles
- Jewelry and watches
- Art collections
- Valuable collectibles
- Household valuables
Digital Assets
- Cryptocurrency holdings
- Online financial accounts
- Digital files and media
- Domain names or digital businesses
Personal Instructions
- Appointment of an executor
- Specific gifts or bequests
- Instructions for distributing assets
- Personal wishes for administration
Benefits Of A Single Will
Full Control
Decide exactly how your assets should be distributed and who should receive them.
Legal Protection
A properly drafted and registered will ensures your instructions are legally recognized.
Flexibility
Update your will whenever your circumstances change — new assets, life changes, or modified instructions.
Personalization
Tailored to reflect your specific financial situation and personal preferences.
Clarity for Family
Helps your family understand your intentions and simplifies the estate administration process.
How To Create A Single Will
Consultation
Discuss your assets, beneficiaries, and instructions with a legal professional at Momentum.
Asset & Beneficiary Planning
Identify assets and decide how they should be distributed among your chosen beneficiaries.
Drafting
Your Single Will is carefully drafted to reflect your specific instructions.
Legal Review
The document is reviewed to ensure it meets UAE legal requirements.
Witnessing & Signing
The will is signed following the required legal formalities with witnesses.
Registration
Register the Will with the concerned authority, ensuring it is legally enforceable.
Legal Requirements & Documents
Legal Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | The testator must be at least 21 years old to create a valid will. |
| Mental Capacity | The individual must be of sound mind when preparing and signing the will. |
| Witness Requirement | DIFC wills usually require two witnesses during signing, while ADJD wills may not require witnesses at registration. |
| Witness Eligibility | Witnesses must be over 21 years old and cannot be beneficiaries in the will. |
| Signatures | The will must be signed by the testator and witnesses (where applicable). |
| Language | DIFC wills are drafted in English, while ADJD wills are prepared in English and Arabic. |
| Registration | The will must be registered with the relevant authority to be legally enforceable. |
Documents Required
Cost of Registration
The cost of registering a Single Will in the UAE ranges between AED 10,000 to AED 13,500. The total may vary depending on jurisdiction, estate complexity, and services included.
Legal Drafting Fees
Professional fees for preparing and structuring the Single Will.
Consultation Fees
Legal consultation to review estate details and beneficiaries.
Registration Fees
Fees paid to the authority (DIFC or ADJD).
Translation Fees
Costs for translating the will into Arabic if required.
Additional Services
Optional services such as executor support or legal updates.
Why Choose Momentum
Experienced Legal Guidance
Professionals who understand UAE inheritance laws and estate planning requirements.
Comprehensive Will Drafting
Each will is carefully drafted to reflect your specific instructions.
Support with Registration
Assistance with the registration process at the appropriate authority.
Clear and Structured Process
From consultation to final registration, designed to be straightforward and efficient.
Ongoing Assistance
Guidance to review or update your will due to changes in assets or circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Protect What Matters Most
Book a free consultation with Momentum and take the first step towards securing your estate in the UAE.
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