Inheritance Law Dubai

If you die without a will in Dubai, your bank accounts will be frozen, your family may not get what you wanted them to have, and the process can take months. Our inheritance lawyer in Dubai help you write a proper will, plan your estate, and handle inheritance disputes. We work with Muslims and non-Muslims, locals and expats. Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu, Turkish and Hindi speaking team.

20+ years

handling Inheritance and Wills in Dubai

All Covered

Muslims, Non-Muslims, and Expats

Multiple language

Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu, Turkish and Hindi

Award Winning

Award-Winning Family Law Firm

Quick Answer

When someone dies in Dubai, their bank accounts are frozen immediately. Their assets cannot be transferred or accessed until the court completes the inheritance process.

If there is a valid registered will, the process is faster and your family gets what you intended. Without a will, the court applies UAE default inheritance rules, which may not match your wishes.

Yes. As soon as a UAE bank is notified of a customer’s death, it freezes all accounts in that person’s name. This includes joint accounts in most cases. Your family cannot access the money for daily expenses, rent, or school fees until a court order is obtained. A registered will speeds up this process significantly.

It depends on your religion. For Muslims, Sharia inheritance rules apply automatically under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024. For non-Muslims, Sharia no longer applies by default since February 2023 under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022. Non-Muslim expats now have full freedom to decide who gets their UAE assets through a registered will.

Your bank accounts are frozen. Your assets cannot be accessed. The court applies the default inheritance rules which for non-Muslims under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of rules,is a 50 percent split to the spouse and 50 percent to children equally. Under the new Federal Decree-Law No. 51 of 2024, if you die without a will and have no identifiable heirs, your UAE assets can ultimately be transferred to the state. Register a will today.

IS THIS YOUR SITUATION?

Inheritance matters are different for every family. Tell us which of these matches your situation, and we will tell you exactly what you need to do.

I own property or assets in Dubai, and I do not have a registered will.

A family member has died, and their bank accounts are frozen.

I am worried that without a will, my assets will not go to the people I choose.

There is a dispute among family members about who gets what from an inheritance.

I have assets in both the UAE and another country and need to plan my estate properly.

I want to understand how Sharia inheritance applies to my estate.

I am an expat, and I want to make sure UAE law does not override my wishes.

I need to register a will in Dubai, and I do not know where to start.

If any of these match your situation, contact our inheritance lawyers in Dubai today. Your consultation is completely confidential.

Why Leaders Advocates

We handle both Muslims and Non-Muslims.

UAE inheritance law works very differently depending on your religion. We know the Sharia inheritance rules for Muslims, and we know the civil personal status law for non-Muslims. We advise each client on exactly which rules apply to them and what they mean in practice.

We Handle Both Wills and Disputes.

Some clients come to us to plan ahead with a will. Others come when a family member has died and the estate is already in dispute. We do both. And we do both well. If you are planning, we protect your assets now. If you are in a dispute, we fight for your share of the inheritance.

We handle international estates.

Many of our clients have assets in more than one country. A property in Dubai, a bank account in the UK, and shares in an Indian company. We advise on how to structure your estate plan so that assets in different countries are properly protected and go to the right people.

We Speak Your Language.

Our lawyers speak Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu, Turkish and Hindi. Inheritance involves deeply personal family decisions. You should be able to discuss them in the language you are most comfortable in.

Award-Winning Family Law Practice

Leaders Advocates has been recognized for excellence in family law in the UAE. Our track record in inheritance and wills cases spans over 20 years. When you hire us, you are working with a firm that families trust with their most important decisions.

What We Handle

Every case gets a named lawyer from day one.

By process

By type

By issue

Will Drafting and Registration in Dubai

We draft a legally sound will that says exactly what you want, reviewed by a lawyer who knows UAE inheritance law. We then handle registration with DIFC, Dubai Courts, or ADJD, depending on which is best for you.

Probate and Estate Administration

After someone dies, their estate needs to go through a legal process before assets can be distributed. We handle the full probate process in Dubai courts, unfreeze bank accounts, transfer property, and make sure the estate is administered correctly.

DIFC Will Register

The DIFC Wills Service Centre allows non-Muslims to register English-language wills that are enforceable in Dubai under common law principles. We draft and register DIFC wills and advise on whether DIFC is the right registration option for your specific situation.

Estate Planning for Muslims

Under Sharia law, two thirds of your estate must go to your fixed legal heirs. The remaining one third can go to anyone you choose. We help you maximize this freedom and structure your assets legally to protect your family.

Estate Planning for Non-Muslim Expats

Since February 2023, non-Muslim expats have had full testamentary freedom in the UAE. You can leave 100 percent of your UAE assets to whoever you choose. We draft the will that makes this happen and register it properly so it is enforceable.

International Estate Planning

If you have assets in Dubai and in other countries, you need an estate plan that covers everything. We advise on cross-border inheritance and help you structure your affairs so that assets in different countries all go to the right people.

Inheritance Disputes

When family members disagree about how an estate should be distributed, we represent your interests. We handle all types of inheritance disputes, including challenges to the validity of a will, disagreements among heirs, and cases where assets have been taken improperly.

Challenging or Contesting a Will

If you believe a will was made under pressure, signed without full understanding, or does not reflect the true wishes of the person who died, we represent you in challenging it. We also defend valid wills when someone tries to contest them without proper grounds.

Dubai Courts

UAE Ministry of Justice

Abu Dhabi Courts

Dubai Chamber of Commerce

International Maritime Debt Recovery Through UAE Courts

Correcting an Invalid Marriage Under UAE

Effects of a Defective Marriage Under UAE

International Maritime Debt Recovery Through UAE Courts

Correcting an Invalid Marriage Under UAE

Effects of a Defective Marriage Under UAE

Arabic

English

Russian

Urdu

Turkish

Hindi

UNDERSTANDING INHERITANCE LAW IN DUBAI

How Inheritance Works for Muslims

For Muslims, inheritance is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024, which came into force on 15 April 2025. This law is based on Islamic Sharia principles. Under Sharia, your legal heirs are fixed by law and receive fixed shares. These heirs include your spouse, children, parents, and, in some cases, siblings. You cannot remove a legal heir from your inheritance.

However, you can write a will to distribute up to one-third of your estate to anyone you choose, including people who are not your legal heirs, charities, or a specific cause.

How Inheritance Works for Non-Muslims

For non-Muslims, the law changed significantly in February 2023. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022, non-Muslim expats now have full testamentary freedom. This means you can leave 100 percent of your UAE assets to whoever you choose. If you die without a will, the court applies a statutory default formula, which is 50 percent to the spouse and 50 percent split equally among children. This default formula may not reflect your wishes. The only way to override it is with a valid registered will.

Have questions about how Inheritance works for your specific situation?

Critical Section

by Process

by type

by issue

DIFC wills now have stronger enforcement in Dubai courts under Dubai Law No. 2 of 2025, which took effect in March 2025.

Since February 2023, Sharia law no longer applies by default to non-Muslim expats who die without a will. A different statutory formula applies instead.
Non-Muslim expats now have full freedom to leave all their UAE assets to whoever they choose through a registered will.
For Muslims, Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 replaced the old 2005 Personal Status Law. The Sharia inheritance rules remain the same, but the procedural framework is clearer.

Under Federal Decree-Law No. 51 of 2024, if an expat dies without a will and has no identifiable heirs, their UAE assets may ultimately be transferred to a state-managed fund. This took effect in January 2026.

Not sure which inheritance law applies to your estate? Contact our inheritance lawyers in Dubai today. We explain it clearly in the first consultation and tell you exactly what you need to do to protect your assets and your family.

The Process

Initial Consultation

We assess

Which inheritance law applies, whether a will exists, and what your entitlement is. About one hour.

Estate File Opening

We prepare

Filing the estate case at the Personal Status Court and identifying all heirs, assets and liabilities involved.

Document Collection & Verification

We prepare & submit

Death certificate and official Arabic translations
Asset ownership documents, property, bank accounts, shares
Heir certificate application filed with the court

Court Hearings

We represent you

We attend every hearing, present the estate details and resolve any disputes between heirs over entitlement or asset division.

Estate Distribution

We finalise

Once the court issues its ruling, we oversee the transfer of assets to each heir according to the final judgment.

Dispute Resolution if Needed

We advise

If an heir contests the distribution or a claim is disputed, we represent you through mediation or further court proceedings.

There are three main places to register a will in Dubai. Each one has different benefits and different costs and is right for different situations. We advise you on which is best for your specific assets and family situation.

DIFC

ADJD

Dubai Courts

The DIFC Wills Service Centre is the most popular option for non-Muslim expats in Dubai. It allows you to register an English language will under common law principles. DIFC wills cover assets in Dubai and in the Northern Emirates. They are enforceable in Dubai courts and have stronger enforcement following Dubai Law No. 2 of 2025. Government registration fees start from AED 10,000 for a full will. DIFC wills are the best option for people with property in Dubai and those who want English-language common law certainty.

ADJD (Abu Dhabi Judicial Department) wills are valid across all 7 UAE emirates, making them the most comprehensive option in terms of geographic coverage. They are available to both Muslims and non-Muslims. Government fees start from AED 950, and the process is fully online. ADJD wills are often the best value option for people who want nationwide UAE coverage at a lower cost than DIFC.

Dubai Courts also allows will registration for non-Muslims in Dubai. Government fees are approximately AED 2,020. Disputes arising from Dubai Courts wills are handled by Dubai Courts directly. This is a straightforward option for Dubai-based assets if DIFC or ADJD does not suit your specific circumstances.

Expats

Most expats in Dubai have never registered a will here. Many assume their home country will take care of everything. This is one of the most expensive mistakes an expat in Dubai can make. Here is what you need to know.

When you die in Dubai, your UAE bank accounts are frozen immediately. Even joint accounts. Your family cannot access the money for daily needs until a court order is obtained. This can take weeks to months.
Your home country will does not automatically protect your UAE assets. UAE law governs what happens to property, bank accounts, and investments based in the UAE. You need a UAE-registered will for UAE assets.
Since January 2026, under Federal Decree-Law No. 51 of 2024, if an expat dies without a will and has no identifiable heirs, their UAE assets can ultimately be transferred to a state-managed fund. This is a new and serious risk for single expats without a will.
Non-Muslim expats now have full freedom to leave their UAE assets to anyone. Your spouse, your children, a friend, a charity, whoever you choose. But this freedom only works if you register a will. Without one, the statutory default distribution applies.
If you have assets in both the UAE and another country, you need an international estate plan. UAE inheritance rules apply to your UAE assets regardless of what your foreign will says about them.
We handle inheritance planning for expats from India, Pakistan, the UK, Russia, the Philippines, Germany, South Africa, and many other countries. We work in your language and advise on both UAE law and the interaction with your home country assets.

What Happens to Your Family If You Die Without a Will in Dubai?

Your bank accounts are frozen. Your family cannot access money for rent, food, or school fees. Your property cannot be transferred. Your minor children may be assigned a temporary court-appointed guardian. The estate goes through a court process that can take 6 months to 2 years. And the people who receive your assets may not be the people you wanted. One registered will prevent all of this.

Sharia Inheritance

Who Are the Fixed Legal Heirs Under Sharia?

Under Sharia law, certain people have a legal right to a share of your estate. These are called forced heirs. They include your spouse, your children, your parents, and in some situations your siblings and other relatives. You cannot remove a forced heir from your estate through a will. Their share is fixed by Islamic law.

What You Can Control | The One Third Rule

While two thirds of your estate must go to your fixed legal heirs, you have freedom over the remaining one third. You can leave this to anyone through a will. This includes people who are not your legal heirs, a specific charity, a business partner, or anyone else you choose. We help you make the most of this freedom through proper will drafting.

The Male-to-Female Share Rule

Under classic Sharia inheritance rules, male heirs generally receive twice the share of female heirs of the same level. For example, a son receives twice the share of a daughter. This is built into the law and applies unless specific provisions are made within the permitted one-third. We advise Muslim families on how to use the one-third will freedom to achieve a more balanced outcome within what the law allows.

Can a Muslim Register a Will in Dubai

Yes. Muslims can and should register a will in Dubai to exercise their right over the one third of the estate they can freely distribute. A will also helps avoid disputes among heirs about the remaining two thirds. It clarifies your wishes and speeds up the probate process significantly. We draft and register Muslim wills with the ADJD and Dubai Courts.

Worried about how Sharia inheritance rules will affect your family? Contact us today. We explain exactly how the rules apply to your specific estate and show you what you can do to protect your family within what UAE law allows.

Inheritance Disputes

Family Disagreements Over How the Estate Is Divided

This is the most common inheritance dispute. Family members disagree about who gets what, whether the will is fair, or whether certain assets were promised to specific people. We represent individuals in family inheritance disputes and work toward a resolution that respects your legal rights.

Challenging the Validity of a Will

A will can be challenged if it was made under pressure, if the person did not fully understand what they were signing, if it was forged, or if it was not properly witnessed or registered. We represent clients who believe a will is invalid and who need to challenge it in the Dubai courts.

Someone Took Assets Before Death

In some estates, a family member takes money from bank accounts, transfers property, or takes valuable items before the person dies or before the estate is properly administered. We investigate these situations and take legal action to recover assets that belong to the estate.

Business Inheritance Disputes

When a business owner dies, there can be disputes among family members and business partners about who owns the business, how it should be run, and whether shares should be sold or transferred. We handle business succession disputes and protect the interests of the rightful heirs.

Client Experience

      
 Excellent4.955 reviews
 4.9
 Excellent55 reviews
  Write a review 
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mahar Ammar 
 3 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I heard about Leaders Advocates through a recommendation when I was trying to find a corporate lawyer in Dubai.

I had a few questions regarding a corporate matter and wanted to understand my options before making any decisions.

Faris Raian was helpful during our discussion, and I appreciated having my questions addressed properly.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ahmed 
 16 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I needed legal assistance with a maritime-related matter in Dubai and was initially unsure where to turn because of the specific nature of the issue. Leaders Advocates was recommended to me, and I’m very glad I contacted them.

Faris and Ekatrina were professional from the first consultation. They took the time to understand the circumstances of my matter and explained the relevant legal considerations clearly. I never felt that my questions were being rushed, and they made sure I understood the available options before making any decisions.

I particularly appreciated their communication and attention to detail. Maritime matters can involve several different legal and commercial considerations, so having lawyers who understand the specific nature of the issue is extremely important.

Overall, I had a very positive experience with Leaders Advocates. I would recommend Faris, Ekatrina, and their team to anyone looking for professional Maritime Lawyers in Dubai or legal assistance with a shipping
or maritime dispute.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mazuba Haanyama 
 18 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I experienced great service from Leaders Advocates. They were attentive and detail oriented and got me the result I was looking. I highly recommend them!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Shahid Bhai 
 21 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommended!

You can blindly trust Mr. Faris for legal services. He is one of the best lawyers in Dubai.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Никита Бочаров 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m very pleased with the legal support I received from Leaders Advocates regarding a real estate issue in Dubai. From the beginning, Faris and Ekatrina took the time to understand the details of my situation and explained the legal options available to me in a very clear and professional way.

What I appreciated most was their responsiveness and attention to detail. Real estate matters can become complicated very quickly, especially when there are disagreements between the parties, but their guidance made the process much easier to understand. Their knowledge of Real Estate Law in Dubai and property-related disputes was very reassuring.

I would definitely recommend Faris, Ekatrina, and Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for professional Real Estate Lawyers in Dubai or assistance with a property dispute.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   nehir yilmaz 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m very grateful for Mr. Faris’s support throughout the whole process. He was always patient, professional, and quick to respond to all my questions. He made everything very clear and handled the process smoothly and efficiently. I really appreciated how dedicated and helpful he was from start to finish. Highly recommended!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ibraheim.goudadha 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m very grateful for the professional assistance I received from Leaders Advocates regarding a cyber crime matter in Dubai. Faris and Ekatrina were extremely supportive and knowledgeable, and they explained the legal process clearly from the beginning. They handled my concerns with professionalism and confidentiality, which gave me a lot of confidence throughout the process. I highly recommend Faris, Ekatrina, and Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for experienced Cyber Crime Lawyers in Dubai or a reliable Cyber Crime Defense Lawyer in Dubai.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   abd elrahman sheta 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent experience with Leaders Advocates regarding a tenancy dispute in Dubai. Faris and Ekatrina were very professional, responsive, and knowledgeable about UAE tenancy law. They explained the situation clearly and guided me through the available options and legal procedures. Their support gave me confidence throughout the case. I highly recommend Faris, Ekatrina, and Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for reliable Tenancy Lawyers in Dubai or a professional Tenancy Dispute Lawyer in Dubai.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Chris Williams 
 25 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I literally can NOT say enough good things about this Law Firm. I reached out to maybe 20 firms and this was the only firm to reach out with SPEED, get me the EXACT results I wanted, and went the extra mile. Whatever they quote you, PAY IT. Because they will work diligently to get the results you need.

And I'm not some fake review! They've helped me on three different occasions and I'm extremely grateful for them! I will only be using them going forward.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   haidy elsayed 
 37 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m very satisfied with the support I received from Leaders Advocates with my real estate matter in Dubai. Faris and Ekatrina were extremely professional, attentive, and knowledgeable. They took the time to understand my situation, explained my options clearly, and guided me through the legal process with confidence. Their expertise in real estate law and property disputes really made a difference. I would highly recommend Faris, Ekatrina, and Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for reliable Real Estate Lawyers in Dubai or professional property legal services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Maxim Orlov 
 39 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend Leaders Advocates for anyone looking for reliable legal support in Dubai. From the first consultation, the team was approachable, attentive, and very clear about the available legal options. Faris and Ekaterina took the time to understand the situation properly and provided practical advice rather than making unrealistic promises. Communication was excellent throughout, and I always felt that my matter was being handled with care and professionalism. In my experience, Leaders Advocates is a strong choice for anyone searching for the Best Lawyer in Dubai, especially if you value clear advice, responsiveness, and a professional approach.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ahmed Touny 
 41 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a very positive experience with Leaders Advocates regarding a real estate matter in Dubai. Faris and Ekatrina were both professional, responsive, and clear throughout the entire process. They explained the legal aspects of my case in a way that was easy to understand and gave me practical guidance at every stage. If you are looking for experienced Real Estate Lawyers in Dubai or need assistance with a property dispute, I would definitely recommend Leaders Advocates for their professional legal services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Thibaut FABBRI 
 45 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly professional, responsive, and efficient.

I work with several lawyers on different matters, but Faris Raian is by far the most responsive. He provides advice that genuinely serves his clients' best interests and does not encourage unnecessary legal proceedings.

I highly recommend his services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   قمر ال مبارك 
 53 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. خدمات سيئه للغايه اسئله بسيطه حجز موعد وتحجز موعد محد يتواصل معاك وإذا في بيتواصلون كل دفع دفع
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ivan 
 69 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Faris Raian and the entire team at Leaders Advocates for their professionalism and support throughout my case.

I spent quite a long time deciding whom I could trust with this matter and spoke with several lawyers who had been recommended to me. Eventually, I was introduced to Faris Raian. His professional reputation immediately stood out, while the terms and cost of his services were also considerably more attractive compared to the other options I had considered.

As it turned out, that was only the beginning of an exceptionally positive experience.

My case was related to fraud and involved a number of complex issues that had to be resolved within a very limited timeframe. Given the circumstances, I initially had serious doubts as to whether the result I had discussed with Faris Raian could realistically be achieved.

From the very beginning, however, Faris Raian was very clear and confident about the strategy. He asked me to trust his expertise, follow his recommendations and allow his team to handle the matter according to the agreed course of action. That is exactly what I did.

In the end, the result exceeded my expectations.

Throughout the entire process, Faris Raian consistently delivered on every commitment. Each stage was completed on time, and in many cases even faster than I expected. His approach was exceptionally professional, precise and well organised. As the case progressed, any doubts I initially had disappeared completely.

At a certain point, I simply followed his advice and trusted the process, without feeling the need to interfere or take any unnecessary steps myself. In my opinion, this is exactly what working with a true professional should feel like - someone you can genuinely trust.

I am extremely pleased that I found Faris Raian and the team at Leaders Advocates and entrusted my case to them. Everything we discussed and agreed upon was ultimately delivered, and the result was even better than I had originally expected.

The entire experience left me with an exceptionally positive impression.

My sincere thanks once again to Faris Raian and the entire Leaders Advocates team for their professionalism, reliability and the result they achieved for me. I would confidently recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for legal assistance from professionals they can genuinely trust.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ashish Bhatia 
 80 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best team we have interacted with. The team is very understanding and gives a lot of time and patience in understanding the case. Regular updates available. Highly professionals group of people. STRONGLY recommend them. We have had a great experience with them. STRONGLY AND HIGHLY RECOMMENDED !!!....5 STARS ALL THE WAY.......
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Yasser Muhammad 
 83 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent experience with Leaders Advocates in Dubai and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for reliable and professional legal services.
They handled my real estate case perfectly from start to finish, and I was truly impressed by their professionalism, responsiveness, and attention to detail throughout the entire process.
I would especially like to thank Mr. Faris and Ms. Ekaterina for their outstanding support and dedication. They were always available to answer my questions, kept me informed at every stage, and made what could have been a stressful situation feel very smooth and well managed.
Thanks to their expertise and commitment, I felt confident that my case was in the best hands.
I highly recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone in Dubai who needs legal assistance, especially in real estate matters.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   ahmed fathy 
 84 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can’t thank Faris Raian and Ekaterina enough for everything they did for me. When I first came to them, I had almost lost hope and honestly believed there was no way to get my rights back.

From the first meeting, they explained everything clearly, built a strong legal strategy, and supported me throughout the entire case. Thanks to their hard work, professionalism, and dedication, we won the case and I finally got my rights back.

If you’re looking for lawyers who truly care about their clients and fight for the best possible outcome, I highly recommend Faris Raian and Ekaterina. Thank you both for giving me hope again and for achieving a result I never thought was possible.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   이여름 
 84 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr. Faris handled my complex assault case with exceptional professionalism, discretion, and care. He was always mindful of the sensitive nature of the case, guided me through every step with confidence, and made a difficult process much easier to navigate. I'm truly grateful to Mr. Faris and his team for their dedication and support. Highly recommended.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mohamed Hassan 
 84 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very helpful and professional
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Donald Mahobele 
 88 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am incredibly grateful to Leaders Advocates for their support with my case. I was dealing with a difficult legal matter and reached out to their team for assistance. From the beginning, they provided clear guidance, professional support, and helped me understand the best way to move forward through the courts.

I won my case last week, which was a huge relief. A special thank you to Faris and the entire team for their dedication, professionalism, and support throughout the process. I highly recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone seeking reliable legal assistance.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ali Raza 
 121 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thanks alot to Mr. Faris, Ms. Eketerina, Mr. Salah and paralegal team.
I had very complicated case, and Leaders Laww Firm won both cases for me in Court of 1st instance and in Appeal court.
The defense was very comprehensive. Throughout the process, i was assisted very well. All my answers, quries, concerns were replied prompty.
Words cant describe my Happiness :)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Nadine Ibrahim 
 233 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ممتازين
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mirna Kbbeh 
 238 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 5️⃣
I had a very positive experience with this firm. Everything was handled efficiently and with great professionalism. Ms. Frenjei was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and supportive.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mary Kebe 
 239 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Exceptional legal services. The firm combines expertise, responsiveness, and
professionalism. I am especially thankful to Ms. Frenjei for her outstanding assistance and dedication to my case.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Вероника 
 250 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Following a dispute with a real estate developer due to misleading sales practices, I engaged Leaders Advocates to represent me.The team handled the matter with professionalism, clear communication, and strong attention to detail. They successfully resolved the case and secured compensation for my losses
I appreciate their efficiency and would confidently recommend Leaders Advocates for real estate disputes
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Амира 
 251 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am incredibly grateful to Leaders Advocates for standing by me during one of the hardest periods of my life. They helped me win my case against my narcissistic ex-husband, finalized my divorce, secured all my legal rights, and ensured that my children remain in my care after removing shared custody. Their professionalism, dedication, and deep understanding of my situation made all the difference. Special thanks to Fares and EKaterina without them, my rights would have been lost. Their constant follow-ups, daily communication, and genuine support gave me strength, reassurance, and positive energy throughout the entire process until the case was successfully won. This was not just legal work - it was real support, real commitment, and real care. I truly couldn’t have done this without them and I highly recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone seeking justice, protection and peace of mind.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Alex Alexander 
 251 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I want to genuinely thank Leaders Advocates for the amazing work they did on my case. It was a complex matter, and they handled it with confidence and professionalism from start to finish. A special thank you to Faris and Katerina, and honestly the whole team, for their hard work, patience, and constant support. They were always professional, responsive, and clear, which really gave me peace of mind throughout the process.
Most importantly, they achieved everything I was aiming for, and the final result exceeded my expectations. I truly appreciate their effort and dedication and would definitely recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for a reliable and professional legal team.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Aleks Orlov 
 278 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have a relationship with Ms. Kate since 2020. At the time, she was the only one of several lawyers to take on my complicated case and gave me hope for success. The battle lasted four years. When the opponent tried to reverse the case, Mr. Faris joined in. They not only won the case but also initiated actual payments from the defendant. I thank them for their hard work. I commend their high level of legal competence and their support and care to the client.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Susan Osman 
 281 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am extremely grateful to Mr. Faris and Ms. Kate for their outstanding legal support. From the beginning, the team was professional, responsive, and highly knowledgeable. They handled my case with great care and expertise, and thanks to their dedication, my case was successfully won. I truly appreciate their hard work and would highly recommend them to anyone in need of reliable legal representation.

FAQs

These are real questions from property owners, expats, families, and investors dealing with inheritance and wills in Dubai.

Do I need a will if I own property in Dubai?

Yes, strongly. Without a registered will, your UAE property cannot be transferred to your family until a court completes the inheritance process, which can take 6 months to 2 years. During this time the property is frozen, and your family may not be able to live in it, sell it or access funds tied to it. A registered will makes the process significantly faster and ensures your property goes to the person you choose.

Is my home country will valid in Dubai?

Your home country will not automatically be enforced in Dubai for UAE-based assets. UAE law governs what happens to property, bank accounts, and investments in the UAE. A will registered in your home country needs to be authenticated and recognized by UAE courts, which adds time and cost. The simplest solution is to register a UAE will specifically for your UAE assets.

How much does it cost to register a will in Dubai?

Government registration fees depend on where you register. ADJD will start from AED 950 and cover all 7 UAE emirates. Dubai Courts charges approximately AED 2,020. DIFC full wills start from AED 10,000 plus VAT. Professional legal fees for drafting and guiding you through the process are separate. We advise on all costs at the first consultation with no hidden charges.

Does Sharia law apply to my estate in Dubai if I am not Muslim?

Since February 2023, Sharia law no longer applies by default to non-Muslim expats who die without a will in Dubai. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022, a statutory default formula now applies instead. This gives 50 percent to the spouse and 50 percent split equally among children. To override this default and leave your assets exactly as you wish, you need a registered will.

How long does inheritance take in Dubai courts?

With a registered will, the process is faster and more predictable. Straightforward estates with a will can be administered in 3 to 6 months. Without a will, the process takes 6 months to 2 years. depending on complexity, the number of heirs, disputes among family members, and whether assets are in multiple countries. We give you a realistic timeline at the first consultation.

Can I challenge a will in Dubai if I think it is unfair?

Yes. You can challenge a will if you believe it was made under pressure, if the person did not have mental capacity when they signed it, if it was forged or improperly witnessed, or if it conflicts with UAE inheritance law. Challenges are heard in Dubai courts and require evidence. We assess the strength of a will challenge at the first consultation.

A family member took money before the estate was distributed. What can I do?

This is a serious matter. If someone withdrew money from the deceased’s accounts, transferred property, or took valuable items before the estate was properly administered, you can file a claim in Dubai courts. We investigate, gather evidence, and take legal action to recover assets that belong to the estate and to the rightful heirs.

I have assets in Dubai and in another country. What do I do?

You likely need a will in each country where you have significant assets. UAE law governs your UAE assets and your home country law governs assets there. We advise on the UAE side of your international estate plan and can coordinate with lawyers in other jurisdictions. The goal is to make sure every asset goes to the right person without being trapped in court in any country.

Can I register a will in Dubai without being a UAE resident?

Yes. You do not have to be a UAE resident to register a will covering your UAE assets. If you own property in Dubai or have UAE bank accounts, you can register a UAE will even if you live in another country. We handle will registration for non-residents and advise on the right option depending on the type and location of your UAE assets.

What is the first thing I should do about my inheritance and estate in Dubai?

Contact an inheritance lawyer and get an honest assessment of your current situation. Tell us what assets you have in Dubai, whether you have any existing wills in any country, and what your family situation is. We will tell you exactly what you need, which will registration option is right for you, and what it will cost. Most people leave this first consultation surprised by how straightforward and affordable proper estate planning is.

Whether you need to write a will, plan your estate, resolve an inheritance dispute or administer an estate after a loved one has died, our inheritance lawyer in Dubai are ready to help. Do not leave your family unprotected. Your consultation is completely confidential.