Probate for Expats in Dubai - What Happens to Assets After Death

For expats living in Dubai, estate planning often feels uncertain. Many people ask:

Will my family be able to access my bank accounts?
What happens to my property in Dubai?
Does UAE law apply, or my home country’s law?
Will my spouse and children be protected?

These concerns are valid. The UAE has a formal probate system, and without clarity or preparation, assets can be frozen and families left in distress.

This guide explains what happens to an expat’s assets after death in Dubai, how probate works, and what families can expect under UAE law.

What is Probate and Why does it apply to Expats?

Probate is the legal court process that allows a deceased person’s assets to be:

Identified
Secured
Distributed to heirs or beneficiaries

In Dubai, probate applies to all UAE-based assets, regardless of nationality. This includes:

Bank accounts
Real estate
Vehicles
Business interests

For expats, probate is the only legal route through which assets can be released.

What happens immediately after an Expat passes away in Dubai?

1. Assets Are Frozen

As soon as the death is reported:

Bank accounts are frozen
Access to funds is restricted
Property transactions are stopped

This applies even if:

There is a will
There is a surviving spouse
There is only one heir

The freeze protects the estate until the court gives instructions.

2. Death Certificate is Required

An official death certificate must be obtained:

Issued in the UAE, or
Issued abroad and legalised for UAE use

No probate steps can proceed without this document.

How are Assets distributed for Expats in Dubai?

Asset distribution depends on one key factor:

Scenario 1: Expat Dies with a Valid Will

If the deceased left a properly drafted and recognised will:

The court reviews and validates the will
An executor is appointed
Assets are distributed according to the will

For non-Muslim expats, this usually allows:

Distribution under chosen law
Protection for spouse and children
Clear instructions for assets

Probate is still required but it is faster and more predictable.

Scenario 2: Expat Dies without a Will

If there is no will, the situation becomes more complex. In this case:

UAE inheritance rules apply by default
Sharia-based principles may be used
The court determines heirs and shares
Outcomes may differ from the deceased’s wishes

For expat families, this often causes surprise and distress, especially where assets are significant.

What happens to specific types of Assets?

Bank Accounts

Accounts are frozen immediately
Funds are released only after probate orders
Joint accounts may also be restricted

Property in Dubai

Property cannot be sold or transferred
Ownership changes only after probate
Land departments require court orders

Vehicles

Vehicles cannot be sold or transferred
Registration changes require probate approval

Business Interests

Company shares may be frozen
Management authority may be disrupted
Probate determines who inherits ownership

Who are considered Legal Heirs in Dubai?

Legal heirs are determined by:

The will (if one exists), or
Court determination under UAE law

Heirs may include:

Spouse
Children
Parents
Other family members

Without a will, the distribution may not reflect personal expectations.

How long does Probate take for Expats in Dubai?

Probate timelines vary depending on:

Existence of a will
Number of heirs
Asset complexity
Documentation readiness

General guidance:

With a clear will: a few months
Without a will: significantly longer

Professional support can reduce delays.

Common fears Expats have about Probate (and the Reality)

“My family can access my money immediately” – Usually not true
“A will avoids probate” – Probate is still required
“Joint accounts are safe” – Often still frozen

Understanding these realities helps families prepare.

How Expats can protect their Loved Ones

Expats can reduce stress for families by:

Having a valid, UAE-recognised will
Keeping asset records organised
Planning for cross-border assets
Seeking professional probate and estate advice

Preparation today prevents confusion tomorrow.

FAQs - Probate for Expats in Dubai

1. Are expat assets frozen after death in Dubai?

Yes. Most UAE assets are frozen until probate is completed.

2. Does probate apply even if there is a will?

Yes. Probate validates the will and unlocks assets.

3. Can my spouse access bank accounts immediately?

Usually no, without probate orders.

4. Does UAE law apply to all expats?

UAE courts handle probate, but the applicable inheritance law depends on circumstances.

5. How can I avoid complications for my family?

By having a proper will and professional planning.

6. Should families use probate specialists?

Yes. It helps avoid delays and legal errors during a difficult time.

Conclusion

Probate for Expats in Dubai – What Happens to Assets After Death? comes down to one important truth: Without probate, assets remain inaccessible regardless of intentions.

For expats, understanding the probate process provides:

Clarity
Peace of mind
Protection for loved ones

With the right planning and support, families can navigate probate with far less stress and uncertainty.

Speak to our probate specialists for compassionate legal support.

Probate for Expats in Dubai – What happens to Assets after Death?