Can I appoint a guardian for minor children even if I am not a UAE resident?

Yes. UAE residency is not a requirement to register a will. Non-resident property owners can legally register a DIFC Guardianship Will to protect their children, provided the minor children are habitually resident in Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah.

The entire process can be managed securely from overseas by utilizing online government platforms and virtual courts:

• Asset Verification (Dubai REST): Non-resident owners can log into the Dubai REST app using their Title Deed or email and date of birth to instantly access their property records. This allows you to easily gather the precise real estate details needed if you are combining guardianship with asset distribution.
• 100% Virtual Registration: You do not need to travel to the UAE. The drafting, witness verification, and final registration are conducted entirely online via video conference with the DIFC Courts Wills Service.

Statutory Structure: To provide seamless protection, your DIFC Will allows you to nominate an Interim Guardian (a trusted local resident who can care for your children immediately during a sudden emergency) and a Permanent Guardian (who can be based anywhere in the world to handle long-term care and eventual relocation).