Now, non-Muslims residing in the emirate can register their wills here, guaranteeing asset distribution and guardianship appointment according to their precise wishes.

The Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) has officially launched its Wills and Probate Registry (WPR) in partnership with the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC), welcoming non-Muslims to register wills within the country. The enforcement of the wills will take place through DIFC Courts and Ras Al Khaimah Courts.

Ramy Jallad, acting CEO of RAK ICC and Group CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), said the new initiative provides non-Muslims the freedom to opt out of the usual Sharia method for distribution of assets and custody appointment. "They will be able to determine their wishes and enjoy peace of mind that their family'sfuture is secured," Jallad said.

Sean Hird, director of DIFC Wills & Probate Registry, said their partnership with RAK ICC fits makes their services more accessible to residents.

RAK ICC registers five types of wills: Full Will, Guardianship Will, Property Will, Free Zone Company Will and Financial Assets Will. "The newly launched WPR programme by RAK ICC just welcomed its first client, who registered a Property Will," Hird said.

The client, who wished to remain anonymous, said they are happy with the will registration service. "We are among the many investors in Dubai and RAK's real estate market and having a will is very important for us to ensure that our properties go to our family the way we want it to," he said.

"The whole process was not only speedy but also very straightforward. Overall, we were taken care of in a professional and personal manner."

Types of Wills
- Full Will
- Guardianship Will
- Property Will
- Free Zone Company Will
- Financial Assets Will

Ahmed Shaaban
Originally from Egypt, I have been in Dubai since December 2005. Before coming here, I worked as an English language instructor, chief En/Ar translator, proofreader, reporter in Egypt and Qatar. I have also worked as a reporter, correspondent and simultaneous translator with two satellite channels in Dubai. I have a masters degree in media, Cairo University, 2014, a bachelor degree in English language and translation, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 1996, and three post-graduate diplomas in English language and Instruction. With over 19 years of experience in translation, interpretation, EFL instruction, and reporting. I am interested in technology, aviation, politics, as well as community, parliament and defence issues. I enjoy reading, writing, exercising, and surfing the web.

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