Afridi & Angell has been involved in private wealth management, estate planning, wills, inheritance and family succession since its inception in 1975. Our services are tailored to private clients (Muslim and non-Muslim) which offer bespoke, practical and effective solutions for their individual needs.

Making decisions concerning estate planning and succession can be a challenging and sometimes uncomfortable process that can raise many questions and concerns. The larger and more complex one’s estate, family and residency situation are, the more daunting the task may seem. With our depth of experience and pragmatic approach, Afridi & Angell can provide you with a comfortable and confidential forum to express your wishes and start taking the necessary steps to find solutions that will leave you with confidence and peace of mind.

The firm advises on all aspects of estate planning, wills, succession and inheritance matters in the UAE. Common topics we address are:

• Structuring estate plans for efficiency, practicality and enforceability, including both local UAE and international elements, for both Muslim and non-Muslim clients;

• Whether and how UAE residency may benefit a client’s tax position;

• How to make effective use of a multiple wills strategy for clients with UAE and non-UAE assets;

• Restructuring of assets to give effect to appropriate planning, and implementing such structures;

• Enforceability in the UAE of foreign wills and court orders;

• Advising on the effective use of trusts and foundations in planning structures, where appropriate, and implementing such structures;

• Working with counsel and tax advisors in other jurisdictions relevant to our clients’ situation;

• Working with clients in the UAE to navigate UAE-court-issued death certificates, succession certificates, guardianships, and transfers of assets to the heirs; and

• Advising on matters of Sharia’a succession rules.

The firm maintains a close relationship with the DIFC Wills Registry and contributed to the consultation process conducted by the DIFC Wills Service, which resulted in the current form of the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry Rules that came into effect on 30 June 2019. Our team includes lawyers that are registered Wills Draftsmen with the DIFC Wills Service Centre. Our DIFC Wills services range from assisting clients with the drafting, registration and final execution of DIFC Wills, advising international law firms and clients on the effectiveness of DIFC Wills in various jurisdictions, to structuring complex estates.

Our Private Client and Estate Planning clients typically include high-net-worth individuals, celebrities, and family businesses.