A few definitions of key terminology used in Will drafting

  • Testator – Individual registering the Will
  • UAE Estate – The Testator’s assets and liabilities situated in the UAE
  • Executor – Individual named by the Testator in the Will to look after the Testator’s affairs and Estate when the Testator dies
  • Beneficiary – Individual named by the Testator in the Will who has an interest in the Will
  • Guardians – A person of trust that has been appointed by the Testator in the Will to take care of the Testator’s minor children ( until they reach the age of majority which is 21 years in the UAE)
  • Probate – the legal process occurring at the time of the Testator’s death when the Court appoints an individual to deal with Testator’s Estate so it is administered and distributed to the beneficiaries.
  • Witness – an individual who observes the signing of the Will.