A new YouGov survey reveals that 76% of UAE expat parents have not formally documented guardianship arrangements for their children, while 49% of expatriate residents have yet to start a will.
DUBAI: A new YouGov study has revealed a concerning gap in family protection planning, with 76% of UAE expat parents yet to formally document who would care for their children if they were no longer able to do so.
Commissioned by UAE-based estate planning platform Blanket, the research surveyed 1,014 expatriate residents across all seven emirates in September 2026. The findings were announced on October 7, 2026.
What does the survey reveal about child guardianship?
According to the research, only 24% of expatriate parents with children under 18 have formally documented guardianship arrangements.
Another 25% have discussed potential caregivers without recording their decisions, while 22% have not considered the issue.
Despite this, 73% believe their families could locate their wishes concerning children or dependants.
The findings highlight a difference between discussing family responsibilities and formally recording arrangements.
Why are so many UAE residents without wills?
The study found that 49% of respondents have not started preparing a will, while another 14% have begun but not completed one.
Although 36% reported having a will, only 20% said their documents were current.
Additionally, 56% believed their assets would automatically transfer to their spouse or partner, although inheritance outcomes depend on applicable laws and individual circumstances.
Are older expatriates less prepared?
Surprisingly, the findings suggest that older UAE expat parents may be less prepared than younger residents.
Among expatriates aged 45 and above, 64% have not started a will, compared with higher completion rates among younger respondents.
Only 12% of parents aged 45 and above have formally documented guardianship arrangements, compared with 31% of parents aged 25 to 34.
What should families know about guardianship?
The DIFC Courts Wills Service offers eligible non-Muslims options to register wills covering assets and appointing guardians for minor children.
However, legal requirements depend on personal circumstances, applicable laws and the relevant jurisdiction. Families should obtain qualified legal advice before making arrangements.
Why does this matter for families living in the UAE?
The research also reflects expatriates’ growing financial commitments.
Among respondents, 29% own residential property, 30% own a local business and 55% hold UAE bank, investment or cryptocurrency accounts.
These findings underline the importance of considering family protection alongside long-term financial planning.
How is Blanket simplifying estate planning for expatriates?
Created by Anton Pirinen, a lawyer and member of Wio Bank’s founding team, Blanket was developed to address the realities of expatriate life, where families, finances and responsibilities frequently extend across multiple countries.
The platform combines technology with qualified legal expertise to help residents document arrangements for their families, assets and wishes.
Alongside UAE will services and support for wills in the UK and India, Blanket has introduced a same-day will service aimed at simplifying the estate planning process.
According to the company, each customer receives guidance from a dedicated expert, combining digital convenience with human legal support.
Impact to expect
The survey could encourage more UAE expat parents to review wills, guardianship arrangements and inheritance plans. Greater awareness may help families better understand their legal options and formally record their wishes while building long-term lives in the Emirates.
