For expats in the UAE, writing a will is essential to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. However, there are numerous myths and misconceptions about wills in the UAE that can cause confusion and lead to mistakes. In this blog, we will debunk some of the most common myths surrounding wills.

Myth 1: "I Don’t Need a Will Because I Don’t Own Property"

Many people believe that if they don’t own property, they don’t need a will. This is a common misconception, especially for young professionals or those without large estates. However, a will is essential for everyone, regardless of the size of your assets.

Reality:

Even if you don’t own property, you likely have assets such as bank accounts, vehicles, personal belongings, digital assets, and even end-of-service benefits. These are all things that need to be accounted for in a will. Without one, your assets could be distributed according to the UAE’s Sharia law, which may not align with your wishes.

Why You Need a Lawyer:

A lawyer will help you identify and include all of your assets in your will, ensuring that nothing is overlooked. They can also guide you through the legal framework in the UAE, helping you understand the implications of Sharia law if you don’t have a will in place.

Myth 2: "If I Don’t Write a Will, My Family Will Automatically Inherit Everything"

Some people believe that their spouse or children will automatically inherit all their assets if they pass away without a will. In the UAE, this is not the case for expatriates.

Reality:

If you die without a will, your estate will be distributed according to Sharia law by default. This can result in asset division among family members in a way you might not expect or prefer. For example, your spouse may not automatically inherit your entire estate, and specific proportions will be assigned to different relatives.

Why You Need a Lawyer:

A lawyer can help you draft a will that reflects your personal preferences for asset distribution, rather than relying on the default laws of the country. This ensures that your spouse, children, or other loved ones are properly provided for in accordance with your wishes.

Myth 3: "I Can Use a DIY Template for My Will"

With the rise of the internet, many people believe they can simply use a DIY template or a generic online form to draft their will. While this might seem like a cost-effective solution, it can lead to serious legal issues down the line.

Reality:

A DIY will may not meet the legal requirements of the UAE, making it invalid. Additionally, generic templates often overlook specific clauses necessary for expatriates or may not address unique aspects of your estate. A poorly drafted will can lead to disputes, delays, and even court intervention.

Why You Need a Lawyer:

A lawyer ensures that your will complies with UAE law and is tailored to your unique situation. They will help you avoid costly mistakes, ensuring that your will is legally valid and that your wishes are carried out effectively.

Myth 4: "I Don’t Need a Will Because I’m Young and Healthy"

Many young professionals put off writing a will because they feel they don’t need one yet. After all, they’re healthy, active, and not planning for anything to happen soon.

Reality:

A will isn’t just about preparing for old age or illness—it’s about being proactive and ensuring your loved ones are protected in the event of the unexpected. Accidents and unforeseen events can happen at any age, and having a will ensures that your estate is managed according to your wishes no matter what.

Why You Need a Lawyer:

A lawyer can help young professionals understand the importance of estate planning and guide them through the process of drafting a will that accounts for their current assets and future growth. Having a lawyer involved also means your will can be easily updated as your life circumstances change.

Myth 5: "My Family Lives Abroad, So I Don’t Need to Write a Will in the UAE"

Some expatriates believe that if their family lives abroad, their assets will automatically be distributed in their home country’s legal system. This is not the case.

Reality:

If you pass away while residing in the UAE, your assets located in the UAE will be subject to UAE law unless you have a will that specifies otherwise. Even if your family is abroad, your UAE-based assets, including bank accounts and personal belongings, will be subject to local law unless directed by your will.

Why You Need a Lawyer:

A lawyer can draft a will that coordinates your wishes for assets located in multiple jurisdictions. This ensures that your family abroad can inherit your UAE-based assets in a way that aligns with your preferences.

Myth 6: "I Don’t Have Minor Children, So a Will Isn’t Necessary"

Parents often understand the importance of writing a will to name guardians for their children. However, even if you don’t have minor children, a will is essential for protecting your estate and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

Reality:

A will is about more than just naming guardians for children—it’s about securing your financial legacy and ensuring that your hard-earned assets go where you want them to. Whether you have investments, a car, bank accounts, or personal belongings, these need to be allocated through a legally binding will.

Why You Need a Lawyer:

Even if you don’t have children, a lawyer can help you outline exactly how your assets will be managed and distributed. This ensures that there is no ambiguity and that your estate will be handled smoothly and efficiently.

The Importance of Having a Lawyer Draft Your Will

As you can see, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding wills in the UAE. It’s crucial to work with a qualified lawyer or law firm like Firm Advice when drafting your will to avoid these common pitfalls and ensure that your estate plan is valid and tailored to your needs.

Here’s why having a lawyer draft your will is essential:

• Legal Expertise: A lawyer understands the specific legal requirements in the UAE and will ensure your will complies with them.

• Personalized Guidance: Lawyers offer personalized advice based on your unique circumstances, helping you account for all assets, beneficiaries, and potential legal complexities.

• Error-Free Documentation: A lawyer ensures that your will is free of errors and ambiguities, reducing the risk of disputes or delays in carrying out your wishes.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your will is drafted by a legal professional gives you peace of mind that your loved ones will be protected, and your estate will be managed according to your preferences.

At Firm Advice, we specialize in helping expatriates in the UAE draft legally valid wills that reflect their unique needs. Our experienced legal team ensures that your will is legally sound, customized to your needs, and free from common mistakes.

Contact us to learn more about registering a Will in the UAE and start your journey toward a secure future for you and your loved ones.