Wills
DIFC Wills Explained: Cost, Process & Who Needs One
What a DIFC will covers, what it costs, and whether it's the right route for your assets.
What the DIFC Wills Service Centre actually is
The DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) Wills Service Centre is an English-language registry that lets non-Muslim residents and non-residents with UAE assets register a legally recognised will. It exists specifically so that people whose home-country will doesn't automatically apply here can set clear, enforceable instructions for their UAE-based assets and children.
Who it's designed for
DIFC wills suit non-Muslim residents who hold any of the following in the UAE:
- Bank accounts, investments or personal assets
- Property anywhere in the Emirates
- Children under 18 who need a named guardian
- A stake in a UAE business
DIFC vs the Abu Dhabi alternative
DIFC is not the only registry, Abu Dhabi's Judicial Department (ADJD) offers a similar English-language service and can be faster or lower cost for simpler cases. Which fits you better depends on your assets and priorities; we compare the two in detail in DIFC vs ADJD wills: which should you choose?
Documents and information you'll need
- Passport and Emirates ID
- A list of your assets and accounts
- Beneficiaries and your intended distribution
- Guardian details, if relevant
Cost and turnaround
DocuGulf's all-in service fee for a DIFC or ADJD will starts from AED 5,900, covering drafting, coordination with the licensed partner and delivery. Government registration fees are always shown separately at cost. Turnaround typically runs 2–4 weeks. Market rates for a will more broadly range from around AED 5,000 for a single-asset will to AED 16,000 for a full estate, see our full breakdown in how much a will costs in Dubai.
How the process runs
You describe your situation and receive a recommendation on DIFC vs ADJD along with an exact price; you share your documents securely or via WhatsApp; the will is drafted and registration coordinated with the licensed partner; and the finished, registered will is delivered to you with updates at every stage.
Key takeaways
- DIFC is a well-established English-language registry for non-Muslim wills covering UAE assets.
- It suits anyone with UAE property, accounts, a business stake, or children needing a named guardian.
- DocuGulf's fee starts from AED 5,900, typically 2–4 weeks, government fees shown separately.
- Not sure if DIFC or ADJD fits better? Tell us your situation and we'll recommend one.
A note on scope: DocuGulf is a documentation facilitation service. All kinds of work is performed by licensed notaries, translators and approved typing centres. Reach us at info@docugulf.com or +971 58 569 3628.
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