TME Legal
Inheritance Law in Dubai
Inheritance Law in Dubai: We provide legally sound and expert advice on estate planning and the settlement of cross-border inheritance cases.
A German-Emirati inheritance case can quickly become very complex. As soon as assets in Dubai are involved, the question regularly arises: Which inheritance law applies – German or Emirati law? Particularly in international estates, this often leads to conflicts between heirs that are difficult to avoid without careful planning.
To ensure that the last will is respected and legally implemented, early and structured estate planning is essential. This includes, in particular, a clear choice of law, legally sound wills, and proactive asset transfers.
Our law firm TME Legal provides comprehensive advice on all matters of international inheritance law pertaining to Dubai and the UAE. We assist clients with the structuring and settlement of cross-border estate matters and support companies, family offices, and expats in transferring assets to the next generation in a legally secure and tax-optimized manner.
Legal Advice on Inheritance Law and Estate Planning in Dubai
Every estate situation is unique and involves individual questions – from property administration and will drafting to the consideration of tax aspects. International inheritance cases in Dubai and the UAE therefore require careful legal planning and precise coordination between different legal systems.
Our experienced lawyers provide comprehensive advice on all inheritance matters and develop tailor-made solutions that protect your interests and legally implement the testator’s last will.
Our services at a glance:
- Settlement of Inheritance Cases in Dubai and the UAE
- Advice on Inheritance Tax and Asset Transfer to the UAE
- Development of International Estate Plans
- Support for Real Estate Estates in Dubai
- Conflict Prevention and Resolution between Heirs
- Advice on Islamic Inheritance Law (Sharia)
- Drafting of Wills and Choice of Law Clauses
- Inclusion of Matrimonial Property Law and Tax Law in Estate Planning
Legal and Tax Consultants
Our Expert Team
Clear answers
Frequently Asked Questions about Inheritance Law
and Wills in Dubai
Which inheritance law applies to German nationals living in Dubai?
According to the European Succession Regulation (EuErbVO), German nationals habitually residing in Dubai are generally subject to UAE law. For Muslims, this practically means the application of Islamic inheritance law (Sharia).
Non-Muslims, however, have the option to specify, through an explicit choice of law in their will, German law, among other things, or a free disposition of assets located in the UAE. This allows for the exclusion of Sharia law. Such an arrangement is strongly recommended to regulate one’s estate in a legally secure, individual, and personally aligned manner.
Our law firm TME Legal Consultants provides comprehensive advice on the drafting and legally sound structuring of wills in Dubai, assists with the choice of applicable law, and guides you through the implementation of proactive estate planning with an international dimension.
What is sharia law?
Sharia is a religiously influenced legal system that draws upon various scriptures. Within Islamic jurisprudence, various schools of thought exist that interpret and apply certain questions of inheritance law differently.
For inheritance cases in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, this means that the specific legal treatment of an estate can vary depending on the circumstances. Therefore, sound legal advice is essential to gain clarity on the application of the respective regulations and to avoid potential conflicts between heirs.
Our law firm TME Legal Consultants has many years of experience in dealing with the specifics of Sharia inheritance law in the UAE and advises both Muslims and non-Muslims on legally secure estate planning and settlement.
Which inheritance law applies to German muslims in Dubai?
If a German national of Muslim faith with habitual residence in Dubai passes away, Sharia law generally applies. For non-Muslims, however, special regulations apply, which can be made considerably more flexible through a testamentary choice of law.
How do I obtain details about the estate and how is it distributed to the heirs?
Estate settlement in Dubai generally takes place through a court. First, a list of eligible heirs must be requested. Witnesses may be summoned to court for confirmation. Subsequently, the court examines the assets, settles existing debts of the deceased, and distributes the remaining estate among the heirs. This includes real estate, bank accounts, or company shares, which are valued, potentially sold, and distributed proportionally. Minor heirs are represented by their legal guardian.
Is there an inheritance tax in Dubai?
No, there is no direct inheritance tax in the UAE. Heirs are therefore not required to pay taxes on assets located in the UAE or on foreign assets situated in the UAE. However, it should be noted that heirs may still be subject to inheritance tax in their country of residence or in other countries where assets are located. Early legal advice is therefore recommended to avoid double taxation and ensure optimal estate planning.
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