SubjectWill / Future Protect
Dear ,
Good day,
Following our recent conversation, I’d like to give you a complete picture of your estate planning options in the UAE, so you can make an informed decision about what suits you best. The MetLife Future Protect Select Plan is one tool among several — my goal is to share all of them with you transparently.
Your Estate Planning Options in the UAE
1. Default — UAE Courts (No Documentation in Place)
If nothing is registered, in the event of passing, the estate is distributed by the local courts according to Sharia inheritance principles. Fixed shares apply (spouse, children, parents, etc.), bank accounts and assets are typically frozen until the process completes, and distribution can take 6–12 months or longer.
2. Registered Will — DIFC Wills Service Centre (Dubai)
For non-Muslims, a will registered at the DIFC allows assets to be distributed according to your personal wishes rather than Sharia rules. Registration typically costs AED 10,000–15,000 and provides strong legal recognition. The will still goes through a probate process before distribution.
3. Registered Will — Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD)
Similar to DIFC, ADJD offers a non-Muslim wills registry with a more affordable fee structure. It is recognized across all seven Emirates.
4. Notarized Will at Dubai Courts
A will notarized through Dubai Courts is another option, generally followed by Muslims, with distribution based on Sharia.
5. Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 (Non-Muslims)
Non-Muslim residents can request that their home country’s inheritance laws apply to their UAE estate — a relatively recent and useful provision.
6. Joint Accounts and Property Structuring
Certain assets can be structured jointly, though treatment varies and most still require court involvement.
7. Life Insurance with a Named Beneficiary (Future Protect Select)
This is where the MetLife policy adds a unique advantage. The death benefit is a contractual obligation between MetLife and the named beneficiary — it does not form part of the estate, is not frozen, and does not require court proceedings. Funds are paid directly to your nominated beneficiary, typically within weeks.
Why the MetLife Plan Adds Surplus Value
While a registered will determines how your existing assets are distributed, it doesn’t create new liquidity for your family during the waiting period. A life insurance plan does both:
- Immediate, direct payment to your beneficiary, outside the estate
- An additional sum on top of whatever your will provides
- Built-in savings and investment growth
- Critical illness benefit covering 32 conditions
- Life cover available until age 95
In short, a will manages what you already have. Life insurance creates an additional, immediately accessible benefit that complements every other option above.
I’d recommend exploring a combination that fits your circumstances. I’m happy to share a tailored illustration and, if helpful, refer you to a trusted legal partner for the wills side.
Looking forward to your thoughts.