Choosing a jurisdiction

Dubai-based expatriates can register non-Muslim wills through the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, which provides federal recognition across all UAE emirates. The ADJD wills service accepts applications from non-Muslim expatriates anywhere in the UAE for a court fee of AED 950 per will.

Four ways a non-Muslim expat can register a will in the UAE. What each one costs, how long it takes, what it covers, and the single question that usually decides it.

Two official routes lead to a registered will in Abu Dhabi — one is cheaper, one is much faster. Here is how to decide.