WILL IN UAE
What Is a Will?
A will is a legal document that sets forth your wishes regarding the distribution of your property and the care of any minor children.
Why make a Will in UAE?
The interpretation of inheritance laws and how they are applied by the UAE courts is a matter that concerns many of us as expatriates.
The key questions seem to be:
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Whether the inheritance and intestacy laws of India, our home country, prevail over the UAE’s local processes, which follow the principles of Sharia.
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Whether U.A.E law is applicable only to UAE nationals, or to all Muslims, or even to all expatriates irrespective of nationality and religion.
Who all Need a WILL in UAE?
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If you are running a business in UAE
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If you are having minor children under the age of 21
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If you have some "End of Service Benefits" from the Employer of a sizable amount
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If you have some money in bank
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If you own a property in UAE
How to make a Will?
For the sake of speed and expediency, a Will should be drawn up with the help of a professional person well-versed in these matters.
Local government authorities have given a certificate of recognition to some professionals in order to allow them to carry out this activity.
While drawing up a Will, it is recommended that you check if such a certificate is available.
To start with, the person making a Will should have readily available updated details of :
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Assets in the UAE (with proof of ownership)
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Liabilities, and to whom they are to be paid
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Proof of residence through, for example, recent utility bills
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Passport copies of the entire family
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Other official documents such as marriage certificates etc.
Next, the person making the Will would determine how movable assets [cash, investments, cars, personal items, etc] and immovable assets in his or her estate should be distributed and who should be the Executor of their Will.