Join us on Thursday 22 May 2025 at 2 PM (UAE) / 12 PM (Swiss) to find out more on the subject from our member company CVML.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• Understand the legal framework governing wills and succession in the UAE for expatriates.
• Identify the key components of a valid will in the UAE, and when registration is necessary (e.g., DIFC, ADJD).
• Recognize the implications of UAE inheritance laws for expatriates, particularly in the absence of a locally registered will.
• Evaluate the cross-border challenges associated with succession planning, including conflicts of law, jurisdictional issues, and asset location.
• Assess the impact of domicile, nationality, and residency status on estate distribution and probate in UAE and foreign jurisdictions.
• Apply best practices to mitigate legal risks and ensure business and family continuity through structured estate and succession planning.
• Avoid common pitfalls and misconceptions related to wills and inheritance in the UAE, including issues around guardianship, forced heirship, and intestacy.
• Plan proactively for succession in family-owned businesses, with a focus on governance structures, shareholder agreements, and cross-border dynamics.

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS
Alejandra Esmoris, Partner – Head of Private Clients
Alejandra is an experienced private client practitioner who specializes in international succession planning, asset protection, and corporate structuring for legacy purposes. As a full member of STEP since 2020 and an active member of the STEP Arabia Committee, she has a deep understanding of the legal and regulatory landscape in the UAE. Alejandra advises high net worth individuals on family matters and succession planning, including the registration of wills, marriage agreements, and the establishment of vehicles such as trusts, foundations, and special purpose vehicles. In addition to her private client work, Alejandra advises corporate clients on commercial and corporate matters. She is skilled in negotiating, drafting, reviewing, and mitigating risks on a wide range of legal documents and agreements, such as shareholder agreements, sales purchase agreements, employment contracts, agency and distribution agreements, and commercial leases. Before joining CVML, Alejandra gained valuable experience working with leading firms in Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates.

Perla Baaklini, Associate
Perla is a legal associate based in our Dubai office, with a strong focus on private client advisory. She assists high-net-worth individuals, families, and entrepreneurs with matters relating to wills, succession planning, asset structuring, and family governance both in the UAE and across jurisdictions. Perla advises clients on the preparation and registration of wills under UAE law, including those through the DIFC and ADJD wills registries, and provides strategic guidance on cross-border inheritance, guardianship, and estate planning. Her practice also includes residency and immigration considerations, helping clients align their personal and business structures with long-term legacy goals. With a background in civil, criminal, and labor law, Perla brings a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape, enabling her to offer well-rounded solutions to complex family and personal matters. She is known for her client-centric approach, cultural sensitivity, and ability to navigate the legal intricacies facing both local and expatriate clients in the region.

In order to receive the login access, please register before the 22nd May!

Please note that this event is hosted by CVML, by submitting your registration you automatically adhere to sharing your contact details with them. Find out more on CVML: https://www.swissbcuae.com/members-directory/cvml-limited/