For non-Muslim expatriates living in the UAE, estate planning is one of the most important legal and financial decisions they can make. Without a registered will, the distribution of assets and guardianship arrangements may become significantly more complicated for surviving family members.

Fortunately, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) offers a straightforward and affordable solution for non-Muslims who wish to protect their assets and ensure their wishes are legally documented.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about ADJD Will registration in 2026, including eligibility, costs, required documents, and the step-by-step registration process.

What Is an ADJD Will?

An ADJD Will is a legally recognized will registered through the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. It allows non-Muslim residents and eligible expatriates to determine how their assets should be distributed after their death, rather than relying on default inheritance provisions.

ADJD Wills are recognized across all seven emirates of the UAE, making them a popular choice for expatriates who own property, bank accounts, investments, businesses, or other assets anywhere in the country.

One of the biggest advantages of the ADJD system is that the registration process can be completed entirely online, making it convenient for busy professionals, investors, and families.

Who Can Register an ADJD Will?

Generally, ADJD Will registration is available to:

• Non-Muslim UAE residents
• Non-Muslim expatriates with UAE assets
• Foreign investors owning UAE property
• Parents wishing to appoint guardians for minor children
• Business owners seeking succession planning

The ADJD system is not limited to Abu Dhabi residents. Individuals residing in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, or Abu Dhabi can register a will through ADJD.

Why Do Non-Muslims Need an ADJD Will?

Many expatriates assume their home-country will automatically apply to their UAE assets. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

A properly registered ADJD Will can help:

• Protect UAE-based assets
• Clearly identify beneficiaries
• Appoint guardians for minor children
• Reduce family disputes
• Simplify probate procedures
• Ensure personal wishes are documented under UAE law

For many families, a will is not simply a legal document—it is a way to provide clarity and security during a difficult time.

Documents Required for ADJD Will Registration

Before beginning the registration process, prepare the following:

1. Passport Copy

A clear copy of your valid passport.

2. Emirates ID

A copy of your current Emirates ID.

3. Draft Will

The will must be prepared according to ADJD requirements.

4. Arabic Translation

ADJD generally requires the will to be available in both English and Arabic. Certified legal translation may be necessary.

5. Asset Information

Depending on your circumstances, supporting details may include:

• Property ownership documents
• Bank account information
• Company share certificates
• Investment portfolios
• Vehicle ownership details

Step-by-Step ADJD Will Registration Process

Step 1: Draft Your Will

The first step is preparing a legally compliant will.

Your will should clearly identify:

• Beneficiaries
• Asset distribution instructions
• Executors
• Guardians for minor children (if applicable)

Professional drafting is often recommended to avoid errors that could create complications during probate.

Step 2: Translate the Will into Arabic

ADJD registration generally requires a bilingual will.

A certified legal translation ensures the Arabic version accurately reflects the English document and complies with court requirements.

Step 3: Submit the Application Online

Applications are submitted through the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department’s online platform.

The applicant uploads:

• Passport copy
• Emirates ID
• Signed will
• Supporting documents

The application is then reviewed by ADJD officials.

Step 4: Pay the Registration Fee

Once the application is accepted, the government registration fee must be paid.

Current fees remain AED 950 for a single will and AED 1,900 for mirror wills.

Step 5: Attend the Video Notarization Appointment

One of the unique advantages of ADJD registration is remote notarization.

Applicants attend a secure video conference appointment with an ADJD notary, who verifies identity and confirms the contents of the will.

In most cases, there is no need to visit the court in person.

Step 6: Receive the Registered Will

Following successful notarization and approval, the will is officially registered and legally recognized.

The registered will can then be relied upon for future probate and estate administration purposes within the UAE.

How Long Does ADJD Registration Take?

While timelines vary depending on application volume and documentation accuracy, many applications receive initial approval within a few business days.

The complete process—including review, notarization, and registration—typically takes several weeks depending on scheduling and document requirements.

ADJD Will vs DIFC Will

Many expatriates compare ADJD Wills with DIFC Wills before making a decision.

ADJD Will

• Government fee starts from AED 950
• Fully online registration process
• Valid throughout the UAE
• Suitable for most expatriates
• Cost-effective solution

DIFC Will

• Higher registration fees
• Popular among high-net-worth individuals
• Specialized common-law framework
• Often preferred for complex estates

For many UAE residents, ADJD provides an excellent balance of affordability, convenience, and legal protection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing an ADJD Will, avoid:

• Using outdated templates
• Incorrect beneficiary details
• Missing asset information
• Poor-quality translations
• Failure to update the will after major life events
• Attempting complex estate planning without professional advice

Online community discussions frequently highlight that DIY wills can encounter delays or rejection when documentation is incomplete or incorrectly translated.

How One Corp Legal Can Help

Registering an ADJD Will may appear straightforward, but drafting a legally effective will requires careful planning.

At One Corp Legal, we assist UAE residents, expatriates, investors, property owners, and business owners with comprehensive will drafting and estate planning services.

Our team helps clients:

• Determine the most suitable will structure
• Draft legally compliant wills
• Arrange certified legal translations
• Prepare supporting documentation
• Navigate the ADJD registration process
• Update existing wills as circumstances change

With professional guidance, you can ensure your wishes are clearly documented and legally enforceable.