For expatriates living and investing in the UAE, succession planning is often overlooked. Yet without proper arrangements, estates can become subject to local inheritance laws, which may distribute assets in ways that differ from an individual’s intentions. This creates risk not only for wealth but also for family security.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Wills and Probate Registry offers expatriates the ability to register wills that align with international best practice while remaining valid under UAE law. This provides reassurance that assets, including property, bank accounts and business holdings, are passed on in accordance with personal wishes rather than local default rules.
At Thistle Global, we advise clients to treat succession planning as an essential part of wealth management. We work with specialist legal partners to ensure wills are properly drafted, registered and integrated with wider international estate planning. For many clients, this process also involves considering trusts, corporate structures and tax implications across multiple jurisdictions.
The risks of leaving succession unaddressed are significant. Families may face lengthy court processes, unexpected distributions of assets or even restrictions on guardianship of children. In some cases, wealth can be tied up for years while disputes are resolved. For high-net-worth individuals with complex international portfolios, the consequences can be even more severe.
Our advisory role is to anticipate these issues and guide clients towards robust, compliant solutions. By integrating succession planning with wealth structuring, we ensure continuity, security and efficiency. The process provides not only legal certainty but also peace of mind that loved ones will be protected and wealth preserved.
In a globalised world where families and assets span multiple countries, succession planning in the UAE requires foresight and expertise. At Thistle Global, we help clients create clarity and security in this area, ensuring that their legacy is protected for generations to come.
