A mirror will is the most practical way for couples to protect their UAE property. It consists of two separate wills registered in the same DIFC procedure, each with its own decisions about who inherits what. This article explains what it is, when it is the right choice and where the limitations lie.
What is a mirror will?
A mirror will consists of two separate wills: one per partner. Both are drafted and registered at the DIFC Wills Service Centre simultaneously, in a single procedure.
The word “mirror” suggests the wills are identical, but they do not have to be. Each partner determines independently:
- Who inherits the property if he or she passes away.
- Who the executor is.
- Who the substitute beneficiaries are (if the primary beneficiary predeceases them).
In practice, most couples choose to leave their property to the surviving partner. But the structure allows for different arrangements.
When is a mirror will the right choice?
A mirror will is suitable when:
- Both partners are co-owners of the UAE property (jointly on title).
- One partner is the owner, but the other needs to be protected as the surviving spouse.
- The couple wants to handle the registration in one process, at a lower cost than two separate procedures.
At VAEtestament, a mirror will falls under Tier 2 (EUR 797 total), including a personal 40-minute session.
Common scenarios
Scenario 1: joint ownership, everything to the surviving partner
A couple jointly owns an apartment in Dubai. Both partners want their full ownership share to pass to the other upon death. After the surviving partner passes away, the property goes to their two children.
Solution: mirror will. Both wills specify that the ownership share goes to the surviving partner. Substitute beneficiaries: the children.
Scenario 2: property in one name, protecting the partner
One of the partners is registered as the sole owner. The other has no formal ownership right. Without a DIFC will, the non-registered partner has no guaranteed right to the property.
Solution: the registered owner drafts a DIFC will leaving the property to the partner. A mirror will is strictly speaking not necessary here (there is only one owner), but the couple may choose to register both wills together as a precaution for future ownership changes.
Scenario 3: multiple properties, different beneficiaries
A couple owns three UAE properties in personal name. They want two properties to go to the surviving partner and one property to go to a child from a previous marriage.
Solution: mirror will with per-property specification. Both partners specify per property who inherits.
The relationship with a will in your home country
A mirror will at the DIFC does not replace your will at home. It complements it. Your home-country will covers your domestic assets. Your DIFC mirror will covers your UAE real estate.
It is advisable to inform your local notary or solicitor about the existence of your DIFC will, to avoid conflicting provisions. Read the detailed article on the misconception that your heirs automatically inherit your Dubai property.
Limitations of a mirror will
A mirror will is not the best option in all situations:
- Property in a corporate structure: if the property is held by an LLC, holding or trust, a standard DIFC Property Will is not sufficient. You need Tier 3 with a lawyer referral.
- More than 5 properties: Tier 1 and 2 cover a maximum of 5 properties in personal name. Beyond that, Tier 3 is required.
- Non-property assets: bank accounts, shares or vehicles in the UAE require a more comprehensive DIFC will variant.
- Complex family situations: stepchildren, divorced partners with shared property, or situations involving multiple jurisdictions may require tailored legal work.
The registration process for a mirror will
The process is identical to an individual DIFC will, but for two persons simultaneously:
- Intake: both partners complete the situation assessment.
- Session: in the 40-minute session (Tier 2), the decisions of both partners are discussed.
- Drafts: two separate draft wills are prepared.
- Review: both partners review their own draft.
- DIFC submission: both wills are submitted simultaneously.
- Signing: both partners sign via video call, potentially in the same session.
The entire process is conducted remotely. Read the step-by-step overview.