Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, counsel Yousef Saeed Al Ibri, said in a statement on Tuesday it would allow wills to be registered in English for the first time, making them available to the public.
Expats would also be able to specify who they want their assets to go to when they die, contrary to Sharia law, which predetermines how inheritance is distributed.
Under the current rules, a deceased man would have assets frozen including end-of-service benefits until all heirs had been contacted, resulting in high legal costs.
Assets would then be split under a system where male heirs and relatives are given a larger share and widows typically receive far less than under UK law.
Al Ibri, said the registry has been set up to “protect the rights and freedoms of individuals and respect for other beliefs and ethnicities”.
Registering a will is expected to cost Dh500 (£104, $136, €121).
