Top Clauses People Often Overlook When Drafting a Will in Dubai

When people imagine writing their will in Dubai, they typically only consider the most obvious things that are going to be the distribution of the house, the bank accounts, and maybe the car. Nonetheless, the truth is that a lot can go wrong with your will if it is not adequately arranged. There are certain clauses that might be entirely overlooked and these clauses can cause your family to have extra trouble or fight over your estate.

Even if you are drafting a simple and clear will for your real estate in Dubai, it is still necessary to examine every little detail. A company like Alqada Claims Recovery Services will be your guide through these troublesome issues. The involvement of legal consultants in Dubai helps to ensure that your will is not only perfectly understandable but also legally valid.

1. Residual Clause

One clause people often miss is the residual clause. Basically, it deals with anything that isn’t explicitly mentioned in your will. Without it, leftover assets can end up in legal complications.

For example:

  • A recently bought car or property not mentioned in the will
  • Shares in a company you forgot to include
  • Bank accounts opened after the will was drafted

A simple residual clause makes sure these items go exactly where you want.

Life can be unpredictable. A contingency clause helps plan for situations where the main beneficiary can’t inherit. Without it, assets might go to unintended recipients under UAE inheritance rules.

  • Think of a backup plan for heirs who may predecease you
  • Include alternative beneficiaries for business shares or personal items
  • Ensure your charity contributions or other gifts are protected

Even basic planning here can prevent a lot of headaches. A Dubai criminal lawyer or criminal lawyer in Dubai can advise on the right wording so the clause works smoothly under local law.

3. Choosing the Right Executor

Most people just pick a trusted family member, but the executor’s role is bigger than that. They can pay debts, settle disputes, and even manage complex assets.

  • Name a backup executor in case your first choice is unavailable
  • Clarify how much authority they have to sell or transfer assets
  • Specify whether they can handle disputes without court intervention

The UAE Civil Transactions Law (Federal Law No. 5 of 1985) provides a framework, but professional input from Dubai advocates and legal consultant teams can make your instructions crystal clear.

4. Guardianship for Minor Children

Parents often overlook naming a guardian for minor children. Without this, the court decides who takes care of your kids if both parents pass away.

  • Name a guardian you trust
  • Discuss responsibilities with the chosen guardian beforehand
  • Include instructions on finances and schooling

Consulting a legal firm in Dubai or legal services in Dubai can help ensure your wishes are legally recognized.

5. Digital Assets

We live in a digital world, and your estate isn’t just physical. Social media accounts, online wallets, and even crypto holdings count.

  • Specify who gets access to each account
  • Include instructions for password storage or transfers
  • Consider deletion or closure instructions if needed

Failing to include digital assets can cause unnecessary disputes and confusion. Dubai advocates can advise on including this properly.

6. Debts and Liabilities

It’s easy to forget debts when thinking about a will. But under UAE law, creditors get paid before beneficiaries inherit anything.

  • State which debts should be paid first
  • Specify if any asset should be liquidated to cover debt
  • Mention any ongoing financial obligations that may arise

Professional advice from a UAE criminal lawyer or criminal lawyer in Dubai ensures you cover this correctly.

7. Charitable Gifts

If you want to leave part of your estate to charity, be clear about it. Vague instructions can result in your gift not reaching the intended organization.

  • Name the charity specifically
  • Include how the donation should be used, if relevant
  • Indicate alternative charities in case your first choice is unavailable

Working with legal consultants in Dubai helps structure this clause to comply with local regulations.

8. Personal Items

Small things can create big conflicts. Jewelry, heirlooms, or collectibles may have sentimental value far beyond money.

  • List items and intended recipients
  • Explain any conditions for their use or sale
  • Consider documenting items with photos or appraisals

Even minor assets can become points of dispute without clear instructions. A legal firm in Dubai can help make sure it’s done right.

9. Dispute Resolution Clause

Sometimes family disputes arise despite all precautions taken. A dispute resolution clause deals with conflict handling.

  • Mediation or arbitration before going to court
  • Specify a trusted advisor or legal team to oversee disputes
  • Clarify governing laws under UAE regulations

This is where guidance from Dubai advocates really pays off.

10. Foreign Assets

If you have assets outside the UAE, mention them. Currency fluctuations, foreign inheritance rules, and taxes can complicate distribution.

  • State how foreign currency should be converted
  • Include instructions for overseas bank accounts or property
  • Clarify beneficiaries if foreign laws differ from UAE rules

Consulting Dubai advocates and legal consultant services can make this smooth and legally compliant.

Final Thoughts

A well drafted will is not simply a piece of paper, it is peace of mind. Neglecting to include certain clauses can result in your family experiencing delays, disagreements or even fighting in court.

If you want your wishes to be precisely followed, seek help from a professional. Alqada Claims Recovery Services can give you the complete step-by-step guidance. With the help of our expert Dubai advocates, we are the ones that guarantee the maximum protection of your estate.

Don't wait-plan today and ensure that every detail of your will is clear and enforceable and a stress-free process for your loved ones. Contact us for customized advice and peace of mind.


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