Without a Will in the UAE, Sharia principles will apply by default and this does not always mean a mother is granted guardianship straightaway.
 

A Will allows you to choose who will raise your children in your absence if both parents die.
 

A Will can also allow you to appoint interim guardians resident in the UAE to take immediate care of your children if both parents die and until arrangements with the permanent guardians can be made.

Without a Will, the default position in the UAE is for your assets to be distributed in accordance with Sharia Law.
 

This could mean your assets are given to family members, and in proportions, in a way that you do not want (e.g. if a husband dies, his wife would only be entitled to a maximum of 1/8 of his assets).
 

A registered Will allows you to specify your beneficiaries and the assets that each beneficiary will receive.

Without a Will, it will take longer and can be more complicated for your family to gain access to your assets and to have guardians appointed for your children.
 

A Will provides clear instructions of your wishes. This simplifies the process and helps to minimise the burden on your family.