Dubai has become home to one of the world’s largest expat populations. Many residents live and work in Dubai, but their assets are spread across several countries property back home, investments abroad, bank accounts in multiple jurisdictions.
This is where the concept of Global Wills in Dubai Protecting Assets Across Multiple Countries becomes essential. Without proper planning, your family could face multiple legal systems, long delays, and unexpected outcomes after your passing.
What is a Global Will?
A Global Will is an estate planning strategy designed to manage and distribute assets located in more than one country. Instead of relying on a single local will or worse, no will at all, a Global Will approach ensures that your wishes are respected across all relevant jurisdictions.
How a Global Will is Different from a Local Will?
A local UAE will typically covers:
- Assets located only in the UAE
- Guardianship of children in the UAE
- Takes into account assets in multiple countries
- Coordinates legal documents so they do not conflict
- Reduces the risk of foreign courts ignoring your intentions
Why Global Wills Matter for Dubai Expats?
Multiple Jurisdictions, Multiple Laws
Every country applies its own inheritance laws. For example:
- Some countries follow forced heirship rules
- Others allow full freedom of testamentary choice
- Probate processes and timelines vary widely
Risks of Not Having a Global Will
Without proper planning:
- Overseas assets may be frozen for months or years
- Courts may apply default inheritance rules
- Family members may need to start probate in multiple countries
- Legal costs can multiply quickly
Who Needs a Global Will in Dubai?
Expats with Overseas Property
If you own:
- Property in your home country
- Real estate investments abroad
Investors with International Assets
Global investors often hold:
- Shares in foreign companies
- International bank accounts
- Investment portfolios across regions
Families Spread Across Countries
If your:
- Spouse, children, or heirs live in different countries
- Family has multiple nationalities
How Global Wills Work in Practice?
Asset Mapping by Country
The first step is identifying:
- What assets you own
- Where each asset is located
- Which laws apply in each country
Coordinating Multiple Wills Safely
Rather than one blanket document, many expats use:
- A UAE will for local assets
- Separate foreign wills for assets overseas
Common Mistakes in Cross-Border Estate Planning
- Assuming one will works worldwide
- Ignoring foreign inheritance laws
- Failing to update wills after acquiring new assets
- Using generic templates without legal advice
FAQs - Global Wills in Dubai
1. Is a Global Will a single document?
Not always. It is usually 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 Global Wills cover bank accounts abroad?
Yes, they are commonly used for this purpose.
4. Are Global Wills legally recognised?
Yes, when properly drafted to comply with each country’s laws.
5. How often should a Global Will be reviewed?
Whenever you acquire new assets or move countries.
6. Is a Global Will only for high net worth individuals?
No. Anyone with assets in more than one country can benefit.
Conclusion
Global Wills in Dubai Protecting Assets Across Multiple Countries is not about complexity it’s about clarity and protection. For Dubai expats with international assets, a Global Will strategy can save families from legal confusion, delays, and unnecessary stress.
Proper planning ensures that your wishes not conflicting laws determine what happens to your assets.