FAQ
Find quick answers to the most common questions about EasyWill.
faq & get answer
Have more questions? We’ve answers.
Is my Will valid across all Emirates?
Can I update my Will later?
Do I need a lawyer?
What if I move out of the UAE?
What happens if my executor can’t act?
Is the process completely online?
Who is the testator?
Who is the executor?
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?
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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 Will | DIFC Full Will | |
| Registration Office | Abu Dhabi Judicial Department | DIFC Wills Registry |
| Guardianship | Yes | Yes (only for residents of Dubai or RAK) |
| Assets Located in the UAE | Yes | Yes |
| Assets Located Abroad | No | Yes (if accepted by the foreign jurisdiction) |
| Religion | Muslims* and Non-Muslims | Non-Muslims only |
| Language | Bilingual English – Arabic | English only |
| Virtual Registration | Yes | Yes |
| Amendments | No – a new will must be drafted | Yes – 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.
