Dubai Court Will Registration Fee
For expatriates, entrepreneurs, and investors in Dubai, securing your assets is fundamental. Understanding the official Dubai Court Will registration fee is crucial for accurate budgeting and an enforceable estate plan. This 2026 guide breaks down the costs, process, and key considerations to ensure your legacy is protected under UAE law.
Understanding the Dubai Courts Non-Muslim Will System
Dubai Courts offer a dedicated legal framework for non-Muslims to register wills governing their UAE-based assets. This system provides a predictable, Sharia-law-alternative process for inheritance. Registration is a mandatory legal step for the will to be recognized and enforced by Dubai authorities upon your passing.
Key Insight: Why Registration is Non-Negotiable
- Legal Enforcement: Only a registered will is enforceable by Dubai Courts.
- Avoids Sharia Law Application: For non-Muslims, registration opts you out of default Sharia inheritance rules.
- Appoints the Court as Executor: Ensures a neutral, authoritative party administers your estate.
- Clarity & Speed: Drastically simplifies and accelerates the probate process for your heirs.
Our team at Vesta Solutions provides end-to-end guidance, from drafting to final registration. We help you navigate the requirements efficiently. Contact us for a consultation on our comprehensive last will services.
Breaking Down the Dubai Court Will Registration Fee (2026)
The total cost involves government fees, notary charges, and potential translation costs. The core Dubai Court Will registration fee itself is a fixed government charge, but the final amount depends on the will’s complexity and asset value.
💎 Key Takeaway: For a standard will covering a bank account and a property, all-inclusive government and mandatory fees often range between AED 4,000 and AED 8,000. Obtain a detailed quote that includes all components.
| Fee Component | Estimated Cost (AED) | Description & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Court Registration Fee | 2,500 – 3,500 | Fixed fee for processing and registering the will with Dubai Courts. |
| Notary Public Fee | 500 – 1,500 | For attestation and witnessing of signatures. Can vary by notary office. |
| Asset Valuation Fee | 0.1% – 0.25% of asset value | Applied to real estate and high-value assets. Often capped. |
| Legal Translation | 200 – 500 per page | Required if the original will is not in Arabic. |
| Professional Drafting/Consultancy | 5,000 – 15,000+ | Legal fees for drafting, advice, and full-process management. |
What Influences the Final Cost?
Several factors directly impact your total expenditure. The type and value of assets is paramount. Real estate incurs a valuation fee. Second, will complexity matters. A simple will costs less than one with multiple beneficiaries or trusts. Finally, using a legal service provider adds cost but guarantees correctness.
Vesta Solutions demystifies these costs with transparent pricing. We handle the entire process, including liaison with notaries and the court. Learn how our integrated legal services can protect your assets.
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The Step-by-Step Registration Process & Timeline
Registering a will at Dubai Courts follows a structured procedure. Understanding each step helps you prepare correctly.
- Drafting the Will: Engage a legal consultant to draft your will according to Dubai Courts’ format.
- Document Preparation: Gather passport copies, Emirates IDs, title deeds, and company proofs.
- Notarization: Sign the will in front of a Dubai Notary Public. Our expert notary services ensure this step is seamless.
- Translation (if required): Have the will translated into Arabic by a certified office.
- Court Submission & Payment: Submit documents and pay all fees, including the Dubai Court Will registration fee.
- Registration & Receipt: The court reviews, registers the will, and issues a certificate.
Typical Timeline: From Draft to Registration
- Drafting & Review: 3-7 working days
- Notarization & Translation: 1-2 working days
- Court Processing: 5-10 working days
- Total Estimated Timeline: 2-4 weeks
Note: Timelines can extend for complex asset structures.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
A frequent error is incorrect asset description. Property must be listed with its official title deed number. Another pitfall is appointing an ineligible executor; Dubai Courts typically act as the executor. Failing to update the will after major life events can also cause problems.
Professional guidance is your best defense. Vesta Solutions ensures your will is drafted with precise legal language and all formalities are met.
Dubai Courts Will vs. DIFC Wills: A Fee & Feature Comparison
Non-Muslims in Dubai have another major option: the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Wills and Probate Registry. This is a distinct jurisdiction with its own fee structure.
| Feature | Dubai Courts Non-Muslim Will | DIFC Wills Service |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Law | Dubai Law (Civil Code principles) | DIFC Law (Based on English common law principles) |
| Primary Asset Coverage | UAE-based assets, especially real estate. | UAE-based financial assets, DIFC companies. |
| Registration Fee (Approx.) | ~AED 2,500 – 3,500 (Court fee) | ~USD 2,000 – USD 4,500+ |
| Executor | Dubai Courts | You can appoint a private executor. |
| Best For | Individuals focusing on Dubai real estate. | Individuals with complex global assets. |
The choice depends on your asset profile. A qualified legal advisor can help determine the optimal structure. For those linking estate planning to investment, understanding UAE Golden Visa eligibility can be part of a holistic strategy.
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Case Study: Registering a Property-Focused Will in 2026
Situation: Michael, a British entrepreneur, owned an apartment in Downtown Dubai (AED 3.2M) and local bank savings. He wished to leave all assets to his spouse and children.
Process & Costs: Michael engaged Vesta Solutions. The asset valuation fee was 0.1% (AED 3,200). The total all-inclusive cost was AED 9,800.
Timeline & Outcome: The process took 18 working days. Michael now has a legally enforceable will, giving him confidence his family’s UAE assets are protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
