Inheritance Rules in Oman
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Omani royal decrees, ministerial decisions, and the Basic Statute of the State. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Inheritance in Oman follows Ibadi Islamic (Sharia) rules as codified in the Personal Status Law — these differ from Sunni and Shia calculations in certain family configurations:
- Fixed shares: The Quran specifies fixed shares (fara'id) for certain heirs — spouses, parents, daughters, and siblings each have defined portions. Ibadi jurisprudence applies its own specific calculations that may differ from other schools.
- 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 Ibadi 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 Ibadi 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 to Do If Other Heirs in Oman Are Denying You Your Inheritance Share
- 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 Sharia court involvement, disputes can arise and transfers may not be legally valid.
- Do not assume Sunni or Shia calculations apply — Oman follows Ibadi jurisprudence, which has its own rules for inheritance shares.
- Do not leave a bequest exceeding one-third of the estate to a non-heir — it will be reduced by the court.
Common Questions
When does it apply — inheritance rules?
A family member has passed away in Oman and left property or assets.You are a legal heir under Ibadi 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 I do if relatives in Oman are refusing to give me my rightful share of the inheritance?
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 — inheritance rules?
Do not distribute the estate informally — without Sharia court involvement, disputes can arise and transfers may not be legally valid.Do not assume Sunni or Shia calculations apply — Oman follows Ibadi jurisprudence, which has its own rules for inheritance shares.Do not leave a bequest exceeding one-third of the estate to a non-heir — it will be reduced by the court.