Why Do You Need an Islamic Will?
The Prophet ﷺ said: It is not permissible for a Muslim who has something to bequeath to spend even two nights without having his will written and kept ready. (Bukhari and Muslim). Writing a will (Wasiyyah) is not optional — it is a strong Islamic obligation.
What Can You Include in a Wasiyyah?
A Wasiyyah can be used to bequeath up to one-third of your net estate (after debts). This portion can go to:
- Non-Muslim relatives who do not inherit under Islamic law
- Charitable causes (mosques, schools, wells) — a form of Sadaqah Jariyah
- Friends, or anyone who would not otherwise inherit
You cannot bequeath more than one-third to non-heirs, and you cannot use the will to change the fixed shares of Quranic heirs.
What Else Should a Muslim Will Include?
- Declaration of faith (Shahada) and confirmation you are Muslim
- Funeral and burial instructions — Islamic burial, no cremation
- Who you appoint as executor (Wasi)
- Guardianship of minor children
- Outstanding debts, loans, or Zakat owed
- Outstanding religious obligations (missed fasts, Kaffarah) for which Fidyah should be paid
Making it Legally Valid
In most Western countries, your will must be: written (not verbal), signed in front of two independent witnesses who also sign, and you must be of sound mind when signing. Consult a solicitor or Islamic legal advisor to ensure it is valid in your country.
The Inheritance Calculator
Before writing your will, understand how your estate will be distributed. Use our Inheritance Calculator to see exactly who inherits what under Islamic law.
Write your will today: Open the Islamic Will Tool →