Guardianship Wills in the UAE
Guardianship Wills in the UAE
For expatriates residing in the UAE, ensuring the care and protection of their minor children in unforeseen circumstances is a top priority. A Guardianship Will provides a legal framework to
appoint trusted individuals who will assume responsibility for the children’s well-being in the event of the parents’ passing. This option is particularly suitable for those who do not have assets in the UAE and prefer not to create a full Will but still wish to secure their children’s future.
Where to Register a Guardianship Will
Guardianship Wills can be officially registered with the DIFC Wills Service Centre, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), or the Dubai Courts Notary. Each jurisdiction has specific eligibility requirements:
- DIFC Guardianship Will – Requires the children to be habitual residents of Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah.
- ADJD and Dubai Courts Notary Wills – Available for children who are habitual residents
of any of the seven Emirates.
For more details on the registration process, refer to our guides on DIFC Wills, ADJD Wills, and Dubai Courts Notary Wills.
Why a Guardianship Will is Essential
Without a legal guardianship arrangement, minor children may face uncertainty regarding
their care, particularly if both parents are no longer present. A Guardianship Will ensures that the parents’ wishes are legally documented, preventing unnecessary delays or complications in appointing a responsible guardian. This type of Will allows parents to nominate:
An Interim Guardian is someone residing in the UAE who can take immediate responsibility for the child’s care in an emergency. This ensures the child has a familiar and trusted caretaker until they can be placed with their designated permanent guardian.
A Permanent Guardian is typically a close family member, often living abroad, who will assume full responsibility for the child’s upbringing in the long term. This guardian is selected jointly by the parents to provide stability and continuity in the child’s life.
A Guardianship Will provides peace of mind, ensuring that minor children are cared for by trusted individuals in case of unforeseen events. Taking this proactive step ensures that parents’ wishes are honored and their children’s best interests are protected.