Inheritance Rules
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Omani royal decrees, ministerial decisions, and the Basic Statute of the State.
Omani National Law
What is this right?
Inheritance in Oman follows Islamic (Sharia) rules as codified in the Personal Status Law:
- Fixed shares: The Quran specifies fixed shares (fara'id) for certain heirs — spouses, parents, daughters, and siblings each have defined portions.
- Male-female ratio: In most cases, a male heir receives twice the share of a female heir in the same category (e.g., son vs. daughter).
- Debts first: Before distribution, all debts, funeral expenses, and bequests (up to one-third of the estate) are paid.
- Bequest limit: A person may leave a wasiyyah (will) for up to one-third of the estate to non-heirs. Bequests to legal heirs require consent of other heirs.
- Non-Muslims: Inheritance between Muslims and non-Muslims is generally not permitted under Sharia rules. Non-Muslim expatriates may apply their home country's laws through the civil court.
When does it apply?
- A family member has passed away in Oman and left property or assets.
- You are a legal heir under Sharia law and want to claim your share.
- You are a non-Muslim expatriate — you may be able to apply your home country's inheritance law.
What should you do?
- Obtain a death certificate and apply to the Sharia court for an inheritance certificate listing all legal heirs.
- File a case at the Sharia court for division of the estate if heirs cannot agree.
- If you are a non-Muslim expatriate, consult a lawyer about applying your home country's law to your estate.
- Consider making a wasiyyah (will) to ensure your wishes are followed within the one-third limit.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not distribute the estate informally — without court involvement, disputes can arise and transfers may not be legally valid.
- Do not assume all assets are in one jurisdiction — if the deceased had property abroad, separate proceedings may be needed.
- Do not leave a bequest exceeding one-third of the estate to a non-heir — it will be reduced by the court.
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