The DIFC Wills Service Centre remains open for will registrations having rolled out a remote registration process to cope with the current difficulties with in person appointments.
Technology driven
The DIFC courts have been proactive in relaxing the DIFC Wills registration requirements in light of the shutdown caused by Covid-19.
A new system is now in place for the registration of DIFC Wills through video conferencing. The new system allows:
- the testator and two witnesses to join a virtual appointment in a video conferencing call from different locations;
- the approved DIFC Will to be directly uploaded; and
- electronic signatures to be used instead of traditional "wet ink" signatures.
Updated process
A number of documents need to be uploaded during the appointment booking process. These include (a) the approved draft DIFC Will, (b) a copy of the testator's passport and Emirates ID (if applicable), (c) a copy of the witnesses' ID and (d) a signed and dated Guardianship Witness Statement (if applicable).
The DIFC Will must be sent to the Registry at least two working days before the appointment.
Once an appointment is secured, the DIFC Courts will send an email to the testator covering details of the registration process and including links to the portal and skype meeting.
Reminder: Essential requirements for a valid DIFC Will
- Minimum age of testator: 21
- Religion of testator: non-Muslim
- DIFC Registration fee: AED 5,000 to AED 15,000 (depending on form i.e. guardianship and assets)
- Registration: now online
Our team
Trowers & Hamlins' Private Wealth team comprises 24 personnel led by 6 partners. We are one of the only international law firms to have an experienced team of private wealth lawyers located in Dubai who can advise you at short notice on DIFC Wills as well as on wider succession and tax planning for assets located in the UAE and internationally.