We at KLF consider family law as a practice that should be sensitive, discreet and a have a commitment to provide practical advice in family matters. We assist our clients in marriage and divorce proceedings, custodial and guardianship matters, financial settlements, inheritance and succession matters.

We have particular expertise in inheritance and succession planning, ensuring that wealth and assets are preserved and transferred smoothly whether it’s under Sharia law or common law frameworks. Our team also assists the clients in preparation of wills (Muslims and non-Muslims), providing clarity and transparency. Additionally, we have extensive experience in handling complex, high net-worth divorces and cross border family disputes and have successfully managed cross-border settlements.

From negotiating financial settlements, preparation of wills to managing multi-jurisdiction divorces – We have a deep understanding of both Sharia principles and civil law frameworks to have had a successful track record of guiding multicultural clients through a spectrum of family law related issues, ensuring the best of their rights and interests are protected.

Why You Should Have a UAE Will

Without a legally registered Will in the UAE, your assets are subject to Shariah inheritance law by default — regardless of your nationality or personal preferences. This can lead to unintended outcomes such as:

• Your spouse receiving as little as 12% of the estate
• Bank accounts and property being frozen, delaying access for loved ones
• Your children being placed in temporary state care if both parents pass away without a guardian named
• Family disputes over distribution of assets, custody, or business shares

A registered Will allows you to:

• Opt out of Shariah law (for non-Muslims) and apply your home country inheritance rules
• Appoint guardians for minor children to avoid temporary custody issues
• Designate specific distributions to your spouse, children, or chosen heirs
• Avoid probate delays and simplify asset transfers
• Preserve family harmony by eliminating uncertainty

Wills for Muslim and Emirati Clients

We also assist Muslim and Emirati clients in drafting valid Wills that:

• Respect Shariah principles where desired
• Reflect specific wishes within Shariah allowances (e.g. charitable giving, choice of guardian, division of personal belongings)
• Allow clients to opt in to Shariah or combine personal wishes for court consideration under ADJD or Dubai Notary
• Ensure clarity for families and full legal compliance

Where We Register Your Will

We help clients choose the most appropriate jurisdiction based on legal preference, asset location, and family structure:

• ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) – English-language Wills for non-Muslim expats; common law framework
• ADJD (Abu Dhabi Judicial Department) – Arabic or bilingual Wills for Muslims and non-Muslims
• Dubai Notary Public – For straightforward Arabic Wills with Shariah opt-in
• DIFC Wills – (Available upon request for eligible non-Muslims)

Our 5-Step Process

• 1. Consultation – We understand your wishes, explain your options, and recommend the right legal structure
• 2. Drafting – We prepare a clear, compliant Will tailored to your chosen court system
• 3. Signing – You sign in blue ink following our instructions; we guide you every step
• 4. Registration – We submit your Will and schedule your online court appointment
• 5. Court Approval – Your Will is verified, approved, and digitally stamped for legal validit

Guardianship Matters

For parents of minor children, your Will allows you to name:

• Permanent Guardians – Who will care for your children long-term
• Temporary Guardians – To act immediately in the event of an emergency

Without this, children may be placed in temporary state care while custody decisions are resolved by the court.

Who Should Make a Will?

• Married couples (with or without children)
• Parents of minor children
• Property owners (off-plan or ready)
• UAE residents with business interests or local assets
• Emirati nationals or Muslim expats with specific family or charitable wishes
• Anyone wishing to protect family wealth, simplify inheritance, or ensure clarity for loved ones

Contact Your Legal Advisor

Jazmine Stevenson

ADGM-Registered Legal Advisor | UK-Licensed Will Drafting Specialist

jbernard@kashwanilaw.com | +971 50 134 3606