Three succession routes
- DIFC Wills Service Centre will — drafted under DIFC Wills and Probate Registry Rules; English-law principles; probated through DIFC Courts. Available to non-Muslim foreign nationals. Most established route.
- Civil-framework will under Federal Decree-Law 41 of 2022 — for non-Muslim residents anywhere in the UAE; registered through Notary Public.
- Foundation-based succession — UAE property held by DIFC or ADGM Foundation; succession governed by Foundation charter and by-laws rather than inheritance law. Best for material assets and multi-generational planning.
Intra-family transfers
UAE property transfers between family members are typically subject to a reduced DLD transfer fee (0.125% rather than the standard 4%) for first-degree relatives — spouses, parents, children. Documentary proof of relationship required. We act on all family-transfer matters including the structuring choices that minimise transfer cost while achieving the succession objective.
Frequently asked questions
What are the three succession routes for non-Muslim foreign nationals?
DIFC Wills Service Centre will (English-law principles, DIFC Courts probate); civil-framework will under Federal Decree-Law 41 of 2022 (Notary Public registration); Foundation-based succession (DIFC or ADGM Foundation, charter-governed). Typically a combination — Foundation for material assets + will for personal items.
How are intra-family transfers structured?
Reduced DLD transfer fee (0.125% vs standard 4%) for first-degree relatives. Documentary proof of relationship required. We structure to minimise transfer cost while achieving succession objective.
How does Sharia inheritance interact with UAE property?
For Muslim families, Sharia inheritance applies by default to UAE property. Structured arrangements (hibah, waqf) can supplement default distribution. Cross-border succession requires coordinated planning with home-country counsel.
Last updated: 1 May 2026. Contact us for matter-specific advice.