Quick summary

• DIFC Wills and ADJD Wills allow non-Muslims to bypass Sharia law.
• DIFC uses Common Law; ADJD uses Abu Dhabi Civil Family Law.
• Both are legally recognized but differ in structure, language, and registration.
• Choosing the right will depends on where your assets and family are located.

What Is the difference between ADJD and DIFC wills?

When it comes to will registration in the UAE, non-Muslim expats are often confused between two major options: DIFC Wills and ADJD Wills. While both are designed to protect non-Muslims and allow them to bypass Sharia-based inheritance, their jurisdiction, legal structure, cost, and process vary significantly.

In this blog, we’ll clearly explain the difference between DIFC and ADJD Wills, helping you decide which one best fits your needs, assets, and location.

Why non-muslims need a registered will in the UAE

The UAE has specific inheritance laws rooted in Sharia principles, which apply by default if a valid will isn’t in place, regardless of your religion. However, non-Muslim residents now have the option to register wills that follow non-Sharia distribution, thanks to services offered by the DIFC Wills Centre in Dubai and the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD).

Without a registered will:

• Your UAE bank accounts may be frozen.
• Your assets could be divided under Islamic principles.
• Courts may decide guardianship of minor children.
• Family members may face delays and legal complications.

DIFC vs. ADJD wills: Key differences

Here’s a quick comparison of the main differences between the two:

DIFC wills: Overview

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Wills Service is a specialized body offering Common Law-based wills for non-Muslim expats. The DIFC Courts recognize it.

Key features:

• Covers property, bank accounts, shares, and guardianship.
• Fully in English—no translation required.
• Types include Full Will, Property Will, Financial Assets Will, Business Owners Will, and Guardianship Will.
• Virtual registration.

ADJD wills: Overview

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) allows Muslims and non-Muslims to register wills that are governed under Abu Dhabi Civil Family Law.

Key Features:

• Applies to assets located in Abu Dhabi.
• Wills must be legally  translated into Arabic.
• Registration process is conducted through the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court.
• Recognized across the UAE (based on wording and court interpretation).

Process to Register Each Will

DIFC Wills 

1. Choose will type (Full, Mirror, Property, Guardianship, etc.).
2. Draft the will in English through a lawyer.
3. Submit for review and approval.
4. Pay the registration fee.
5. Book an appointment.
6. Virtual registration. 
7. Will is recorded in the DIFC Courts.

ADJD wills (Abu Dhabi)

1. Draft the will.
2. Translate it into Arabic (legal translation).
3. Submit on portal for review and approval.
4. Pay registration fees.
5. Book an appointment.
6. Virtual registration.
7. Receive legally registered will.

Required documents

Which will should you choose?

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Choose the right will with confidence

Registering the correct will in the UAE ensures your loved ones are protected, your assets are secured, and your wishes are legally recognized. Understanding the difference between ADJD and DIFC Wills empowers you to make the right decision.

At Kanoony, we help you assess your specific needs family, assets—and guide you toward the best-fit will option. Our legal consultants handle everything from drafting to translation, notarization, and registration, so you don’t have to worry about legal complexities or delays.

Contact us today to secure your legacy with a legally valid will that reflects your values, protects your family, and respects your rights as a non-Muslim expat.