The UAE is a stronghold for entrepreneurs who wish to invest in the booming economy. Whilst international investors are establishing entities, and making plans for long-term residence, the reality remains that, some are not informed of the importance of having the necessary legal framework in place in furtherance of asset protection. To have a full legal framework in place, means not only the negotiating, and drafting of contracts, but so too the execution of a will. The aim is to prevent a reactive approach, in which case Sharia law inheritance applies.
The UAE is a stronghold for entrepreneurs who wish to invest in the booming economy. Whilst international investors are establishing entities, and making plans for long-term residence, the reality remains that, some are not informed of the importance of having the necessary legal framework in place in furtherance of asset protection. To have a full legal framework in place, means not only the negotiating, and drafting of contracts, but so too the execution of a will. The aim is to prevent a reactive approach, in which case Sharia law inheritance applies.
If a testator lists the shares held in a company within the will, they are still deemed assets even though they are intangible. As such, the same Sharia law principles regulating inheritance will apply if no will is in place referring to said shares. Reference may either be made in a broad sense, or the narrow approach may be followed.
If a testator lists the shares held in a company within the will, they are still deemed assets even though they are intangible. As such, the same Sharia law principles regulating inheritance will apply if no will is in place referring to said shares. Reference may either be made in a broad sense, or the narrow approach may be followed.
It is important to bear in mind that your will reflects your last wishes, which is regarded as the most important document following your death. In a previous article, we had provided a brief overview of the upcoming Statutory changes related to intestate succession and Sharia law for non-Muslim residents of the UAE, to come into effect in February 2023. We strongly urge you to reach out to our department for further assistance in this regard.
Head of Wills and Inheritance