Sharia vs. non-Muslim wills in the UAE

Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 confirmed that non-Muslims residing in the UAE can choose the inheritance rules of their home country, but only via a registered will. The reform was a significant step for the expat community, because it finally gave families a clear, documented way to align UAE succession with the laws they grew up with.

Without that explicit choice on file, Sharia principles apply by default, which may distribute assets very differently from what you expect. Spouses, children, and parents each receive defined shares, and certain non-Muslim partners may not inherit at all unless specifically named in a registered will.

The law is opt-in, not automatic. Simply being a non-Muslim resident is not enough. You need a will that is properly drafted, signed in line with UAE rules, and registered with the right authority such as ADJD. Until that document exists, the default position is applied to your estate.

Registering a Weelly will is the simplest way to lock in your chosen rules and avoid a courtroom debate later. We tailor the wording to your nationality and family situation, make sure your choice of law is unambiguous, and handle the registration so the document is enforceable from day one.