Many UAE residents are increasingly turning to estate planning to manage everything from pet care to complex inheritance structures. However, a recent survey by the digital platform Blanket reveals a worrying gap in these preparations: a vast majority of parents have yet to formally appoint legal guardians for their children. While many expats mistakenly believe that being married automatically ensures a seamless transfer of assets and parental rights, the reality is far more complex. Under local civil inheritance laws, a surviving spouse does not automatically inherit the full estate, and the lack of a registered will can lead to frozen bank accounts and lengthy, stressful legal battles that may leave families without access to essential funds for years.

Beyond financial assets, the distinction between custody and legal guardianship is a critical issue that many parents overlook. Without a formal, written nomination of a guardian, a surviving parent may find themselves unable to make major decisions regarding their children’s education, international travel, or the management of their inheritance, as these rights could be legally diverted to other relatives or the court. To mitigate these risks, experts advise that parents move beyond informal agreements and utilize registered wills to clearly define their wishes. By proactively setting terms—such as age-based inheritance thresholds or the appointment of trustees—families can avoid the devastating uncertainty of leaving their children’s future in the hands of the legal system.