Most married expat couples in the UAE do not need separate, unrelated wills. They need mirror wills, two documents that say substantially the same thing from each partner's perspective. They are simple, affordable, and strategically powerful.
What is a mirror will?
Mirror wills are two individual wills, one for each partner, drafted as a coordinated pair. Typically each partner leaves their entire UAE estate to the other; if both die together or in close succession, the estate passes to the children or other named beneficiaries.
Why couples choose them
- ,Cost-effective, drafted together, registered together
- ,Eliminate ambiguity about what either partner intended
- ,Provide identical guardianship nominations for children
- ,Coordinate with any foreign wills the couple holds
Important caveat
A mirror will is not a joint will. Each partner can amend or revoke their own will at any time. For couples who want a binding mutual arrangement (for example, in second-marriage situations where each has children from a previous relationship), additional structures such as trusts or letter of wishes documents may be appropriate.
This article is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. All Heirkin Legacy wills are drafted by our partner law firm, AZ&Co Legal, in line with current UAE regulations.