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FAQ

Find quick answers to the most common questions about EasyWill.

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Is my Will valid across all Emirates?
Yes. Your Will is notarised through the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department and entered into the federal court system, so every Emirate recognises it during probate.
Can I update my Will later?
Absolutely. With EasyWill Lifetime you can revise beneficiaries, assets, or guardians at any time. Each update is re-notarised so only the latest version is enforceable.
Do I need a lawyer?
A lawyer is not required to create a Will in the UAE, but you’re free to consult one. EasyWill simply guides you and coordinates with licensed notaries and translators.
What if I move out of the UAE?
The will remains valid for assets located in the UAE. You can keep it on file or update it from abroad at any time via your EasyWill dashboard.
What happens if my executor can’t act?
You can name a backup executor. If all named executors are unavailable, our optional EasyWill Afterlife service steps in to work with the courts and release assets smoothly.
Is the process completely online?
Yes - from the initial questionnaire to the notarial video call and court filing. No office visits or paper forms; your signed, bilingual Will is stored securely in your account.
Who is the testator?
The testator is the person signing the Will (the one making gifts of his/her property to be effective upon his/her death).
Who is the executor?
The executor is the person appointed to administer your estate when the Will is probated. They are legally authorized to carry out the financial directives and ensure that all instructions outlined in your Will are properly executed.
What does an executor do?
The executor is responsible for collecting your assets, paying valid debts, and distributing the estate according to the Will. They also ensure that all instructions are properly carried out - including representing the estate in court if required, paying taxes and bills, and maintaining property until the estate is fully settled.
What is an alternate executor?
An alternate executor is the person you would like to serve as the executor should the primary executor not be able to serve.
Who should I select to be my executor?
The executor is usually your spouse, an adult child, a trusted family member, or your legal advisor.
One of your alternate executors can also be EasyWill, through the EasyWill AfterLife service.
An executor does not need legal or financial expertise, nor do they have to reside in the UAE. Typically, our clients provide a copy of their Will to the appointed executor.
It’s important to choose someone you fully trust to carry out your wishes exactly as stated in your Will, without the need for supervision.
Can the executor also be a beneficiary?
Yes, absolutely.
It is quite common for an executor to also be one of the beneficiaries named in the Will, for example, a spouse, adult child, or close family member. In fact, many people intentionally choose someone who has both a personal interest in the estate and a strong sense of responsibility to ensure that their wishes are properly carried out.
Who pays for the Executor?
The funds used to pay bills and cover any necessary expenses, including attorney’s fees, come directly from your estate.
For example, the money in your bank accounts and other financial assets will first be used to settle funeral costs and outstanding bills, before the remaining balance is distributed to your heirs.
You may also specify compensation for your executor in your Will.
If you choose EasyWill as an alternate executor, you will pay an annual subscription fee, which covers the executor’s compensation for providing this service.
Who should I choose?
Most people choose a close family member, such as a spouse, child, brother or sister. However, you can choose just about anyone to carry out your last wishes. As long as your Will is clearly written, no special legal or financial acumen is required to be an executor.
What qualities should I consider?
When choosing an executor for your will, the following qualities are important:

1. HONESTY
Obviously, you need a trustworthy person to carry out your will — someone who will do the right thing and follow your wishes, even if they might not agree with your decisions. Choose someone you trust.

2. ORGANIZATION
A certain degree of organization is required to administer a will. Selecting an executor who is orderly and reliable can ensure your assets are handled in a timely manner.

3. WILLINGNESS
Make sure the person you assign as executor is willing to complete the task. The easiest way to do this? Ask them ahead of time.

4. ABILITY
Your executor must not only be willing, but able. Because wills may be created years or decades before you die, it is possible that the person you choose as executor today might not be willing or able to administer your last wishes after you pass. That’s why it’s a good idea to name an alternate executor in your will.

5. DIRECT BENEFIT
It’s advisable that your executor also be a beneficiary of your will. While this might sound counterintuitive, there’s actually a good reason to do so. If the person who executes your Will has a direct interest in its distribution, they are more likely to take care of things in a timely manner. And, if you’ve selected someone trustworthy and honest, you need not worry about them acting against your wishes.

6. RELATIONSHIP
Choosing an executor is a practical decision, but it can have emotional consequences. To avoid hurt feelings, talk to your loved ones in advance about who you wish to administer of your estate. For example, you might follow tradition by choosing your spouse first, followed by your first-born child.
What are the differences between Abu Dhabi and DIFC?
 Abu Dhabi Full WillDIFC Full Will
Registration OfficeAbu Dhabi Judicial DepartmentDIFC Wills Registry
GuardianshipYesYes (only for residents of Dubai or RAK)
Assets Located in the UAEYesYes
Assets Located AbroadNoYes (if accepted by the foreign jurisdiction)
ReligionMuslims* and Non-MuslimsNon-Muslims only
LanguageBilingual English – ArabicEnglish only
Virtual RegistrationYesYes
AmendmentsNo – a new will must be draftedYes – a new will can be drafted upon payment of an amendment fee

*Excluding GCC nationals. Muslim individuals from GCC countries are not permitted to register a will with ADJD.

 

Important Information

  • Both types of wills ensure the proper distribution of assets located in the United Arab Emirates – such as bank accounts, real estate, and company shares – in accordance with your wishes.
  • Both allow the appointment of guardians for minor children, although DIFC guardianship provisions apply only if the testator resides in Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah.
  • The DIFC Will is beneficial only for those who wish to include foreign assets.
  • Regarding foreign assets: although they can be included in a DIFC Will, recognition by the relevant foreign jurisdiction is essential.
  • For both types of wills, execution and transfer of assets through UAE institutions remain necessary.
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