Owning assets in the UAE is a significant privilege; however, protecting those assets requires a strategic approach under the new legal regulations that came into force in 2026. To secure your global assets and protect your family’s future, intention alone is not enough; a legally bulletproof will, registered under the guidance of Esenyel Consultancy, is essential.
Why is a Will Mandatory in the UAE in 2026? (Critical Updates)
As of 2026, risks for expatriates without a registered will have intensified due to recent amendments in the UAE legal system (particularly the latest changes to the Civil Transactions Law):
Nationalization of Heirless Assets (Waqf): According to the new law that took effect on January 1, 2026; the bank accounts, real estate, and commercial shares of expatriates who do not have a registered will and whose legal heirs cannot be found (or proven) are transferred directly to charitable endowments (Waqf).
Change in the Age of Majority: The age of full legal capacity in the UAE has been adjusted to 18. This means that 18-year-old heirs can manage vast assets independently unless a specific restriction is defined in a will. Esenyel Consultancy develops special protection clauses (trust-like structures) to keep this process under your control.
Risk of Automatic Distribution: In the absence of a will, new civil laws take effect (typically 50% to the spouse and 50% to the children). However, this process can put your family in a financial bottleneck due to the freezing of bank accounts and court approvals that can take months.
Esenyel Consultancy: Professional Will Solutions
In the digitized legal system of the UAE (ADJD and DIFC), we are with you at every step of the process.
1. Civil Wills for Non-Muslims (DIFC & ADJD)
We prepare wills for non-Muslim investors in English, adhering to international standards (Common Law).
DIFC Wills: A prestigious Dubai-based solution that can also cover global assets.
ADJD Civil Wills: A formal written will registration option via Abu Dhabi, legally binding and valid across all emirates.
Guardianship: Appointment of guardians for your minor children without the need for lengthy court interventions.
2. Strategic Planning for Muslim Residents
With the 2026 updates, Muslim expatriates can now exercise more discretion over certain assets (shares, properties). Esenyel Consultancy offers hybrid models that are Sharia-compliant yet protect your personal preferences.
Why Should You Choose Esenyel Consultancy?
There is no room for error in the 2026 model of the UAE legal system. As Esenyel Consultancy, we offer the following advantages:
Formal Written Registration: We meticulously draft and register your written will through official channels, ensuring complete legal compliance and precision.
Bilingual Expertise: Preparation process in Arabic-English or with Turkish support, in formats strictly accepted by the courts.
Asset Tracking and Updates: We revise your existing wills according to the new 2026 “Age of Majority” and “Inheritance Distribution” laws.
Confidentiality: Protection of your personal data and asset inventories under the highest security standards.
Remember: As of 2026, UAE courts have adopted a stricter stance, considering unregistered wills as “null and void.”
Entrust Your Legacy to the Law, Not to Chance
If you do not want your assets transferred to an endowment or your family to be lost in complex legal procedures, take a professional step.
You can contact us to start your will registration process and receive a free preliminary consultation.
