Why think about it early
A Dubai apartment is registered with the DLD in the owner's name. After the owner's death, the heirs must prove their rights and transfer the property, and without a will this is usually slower and harder: a UAE court order, translations and legalised documents may be needed. A will registered in the UAE sets out in advance who receives what, in which shares, and who the executor is.
If there is no will
- For non-Muslims — UAE nationals and foreigners — Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status has applied since 1 February 2023.
- Under its general rule, half of the estate goes to the spouse and the other half is split equally among the children, with no difference between sons and daughters.
- The law also provides other options (such as applying the law of the country of nationality), and in practice it depends on the case. Check how it applies to your family with a lawyer.
Where wills are registered
- DIFC Courts Wills Service Centre registers non-Muslim wills covering assets in the UAE.
- The Dubai Courts notary keeps a register of non-Muslim wills under Dubai Law No. 15 of 2017.
- Fees and requirements for witnesses and documents differ by service — check them on the official website before applying.
A will made in your home country does not always work for UAE assets without extra steps, so owners usually make a separate UAE will for a Dubai property.
How the apartment passes to heirs
The DLD registers the transfer of ownership based on succession documents (a will or a court order). DLD also has a separate service for heirs selling the property. If the unit is mortgaged, the heirs need to settle it with the bank. How registration works: see how to sell an apartment.
If you are buying now
- Decide whose name to buy in: one person, spouses jointly or a company — each option has its own consequences for succession and tax.
- Make a will soon after the Title Deed is registered.
- Check inheritance tax in your country of tax residence with a tax adviser; see Dubai property taxes.
This is general information as of October 2026, not legal advice. For wills and estates, consult a UAE lawyer.