Estates & Inheritance

How an estate is divided in the UAE depends principally on the religion of the deceased, whether a valid will exists and where it is registered, and the type and location of the assets.

Muslim estates. For Muslims, inheritance shares are set by the Personal Status Law in accordance with Islamic Sharia, and a will is generally limited to one third of the estate for non-heirs.

Non-Muslim estates. Under the federal civil personal status law, where a non-Muslim dies without a will, half of the estate passes to the surviving spouse and the remainder is shared equally among the children. A registered will can direct the estate otherwise.

Determination of heirs. An heirs' certificate (determination of heirs) issued by the competent court is usually the first step before bank accounts, property or company shares can be dealt with.

Disputes between heirs. Since January 2026, courts may refer inheritance disputes to specialised chambers. Division of property, valuation and claims against third parties often require expert evidence.

A registered will is the most reliable way to give effect to your wishes, particularly for non-Muslims with assets in more than one emirate. Heirs should list the assets and obtain the death certificate and family documents early.

Legal framework
Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 (Personal Status Law)
Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status, and Cabinet Decision No. 122 of 2023 (Executive Regulations)
Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021, as amended
Federal Decree-Law No. 42 of 2022 (Civil Procedure Law), as amended by Federal Decree-Law No. 22 of 2025

Which law governs a particular estate can depend on residence, nationality, the registration of any will (including with the DIFC Courts) and the emirate in which assets are located.