Living in Dubai often means enjoying a truly international lifestyle. Many expats work in the UAE, own property in another country, maintain overseas bank accounts, and have family members living across borders.
This global reality raises a critical estate-planning question:
Should you rely on a local will, or do you need a Global Will?
Choosing the wrong structure can lead to conflicting laws, frozen assets, and long legal delays. This guide explains the differences clearly so you can make an informed decision.
What is a Local Will?
A local will is a will drafted to deal with assets in one specific country, such as the UAE.
In Dubai, a local will typically:
- Covers UAE-based assets (property, bank accounts)
- Addresses guardianship of minor children in the UAE
- Is governed by UAE laws and procedures
Local wills are commonly registered through recognised UAE authorities and are effective within the UAE only.
What is a Global Will?
A Global Will is not just one document, it is an estate planning strategy designed to manage assets located in multiple countries.
A Global Will approach:
- Considers all assets worldwide
- Accounts for different inheritance laws
- Coordinates documents so they do not override or cancel each other
- Reduces cross-border legal conflicts
In practice, it often involves multiple coordinated wills, each valid in a specific jurisdiction.
Why Local Wills alone often fall short for Expats?
Many expats assume that a UAE will automatically covers their global estate. This is one of the most common and costly misunderstandings.
Different Countries, Different Inheritance Laws
Each country applies its own rules:
- Some enforce forced heirship
- Others allow full freedom of distribution
- Probate timelines and procedures vary widely
A UAE local will may not be recognised or enforced abroad.
Risk of Legal Conflicts
Without a Global Will strategy:
- Foreign courts may ignore your UAE will
- Assets may be frozen pending local probate
- Multiple legal proceedings may run at the same time
- Heirs may face conflicting outcomes
When a Local Will is usually enough?
A local will may be sufficient if:
- All or nearly all your assets are in the UAE
- You do not own property or investments abroad
- Your family situation is simple You have no plans to acquire overseas assets
Even then, periodic reviews are important.
When a Global Will is the better choice?
A Global Will is usually the better option if you:
- Own property in more than one country
- Hold overseas bank accounts or investments
- Have business interests abroad
- Have family members living in different countries
- Expect to relocate or retire outside the UAE
In these cases, relying only on local wills often creates gaps.
How a Global Will prevents Cross-Border legal conflicts?
Asset Mapping by Jurisdiction
All assets are identified and grouped by country so the correct legal system applies to each.
Coordinated Drafting
Each will:
- Applies only to specific assets
- Clearly states it does not revoke other wills
- Aligns with your overall estate plan
This coordination is what prevents accidental revocation and legal disputes.
Common Mistakes Expats Make
- Assuming one will works worldwide
- Drafting multiple wills without coordination
- Using generic or online templates
- Not updating wills after buying overseas property
These mistakes often surface only after death when it’s too late to fix them.
FAQs - Global Will vs Local Will for Expats
1. Is a Global Will a single document?
It depends. Often it is a coordinated set of wills across jurisdictions.
2. Do I need a Global Will if I already have a UAE will?
Yes, if you own assets outside the UAE.
3. Can multiple local wills cancel each other out?
Yes, if not drafted carefully. This is a common risk.
4. Does a Global Will reduce probate delays?
Yes, significantly, when structured correctly.
5. Are Global Wills legally recognised?
Yes, when compliant with each jurisdiction’s laws.
6. Is a Global Will only for high-net-worth individuals?
No. Anyone with cross-border assets can benefit.
Conclusion
Global Will vs Local Will – Which is Better for Expats in Dubai? depends on one key factor:
Where are your assets located?
- If your life and wealth are local, a local will may be enough.
- If your assets and family are spread across borders, a Global Will strategy offers clarity, protection, and peace of mind.
The right structure today can save your family years of legal stress tomorrow.