Appointing Guardians for Your Children in a UAE Will

For parents, the most important part of a will is often not the money. It is who will care for your children if the unthinkable happens. In the UAE, the only reliable way to choose is through a properly registered will.

For parents, the most important part of a will is often not the money. It is who will care for your children if the unthinkable happens. In the UAE, the only reliable way to choose is through a properly registered will.

Why guardianship needs to be in writing

The only legally accepted method of appointing guardians for non-Muslim minor children is to include these provisions in an appropriately registered will. Without clear directions, custody decisions may default to the court's assessment under applicable rules.

Temporary and permanent guardians

UAE frameworks allow parents to name both a temporary guardian, for immediate short-term care, and a permanent guardian for long-term custody. This is especially important for single parents and for cross-border families with relatives in different countries.

Guardianship is a separate decision

Guardianship of minor children is distinct from asset distribution, but both should be addressed in the same will. Courts are far more likely to honour guardianship instructions when they are properly registered through DIFC or ADJD.

Practical detail helps too: noting schooling preferences or access to funds for the children's care gives your chosen guardian clarity and authority.