How to Open an Inheritance File in Dubai
Start a Dubai inheritance file with the death, heir and estate documents needed for the court to identify and administer the estate.
The practical answer
Dubai Courts’ inheritance service allows heirs to open an estate file and bring related inheritance claims within the court’s jurisdiction. A death certificate is only the starting document; banks, properties, debts, wills, heirs and foreign records may require separate verification or attestation.
How to handle it
1. Obtain the official death record
Use the issued death certificate and complete any required registration or attestation for a death that occurred outside Dubai or abroad.
2. Identify heirs and estate documents
Collect identity, family, marriage, birth, will, property, bank and liability records. Do not distribute or sell assets informally.
3. Check jurisdiction and representation
Confirm why Dubai Courts is the competent forum and whether an heir abroad needs a valid power of attorney or translated documents.
4. Open and track the estate file
Submit through the official service, keep the case number and follow orders about heirs, inventory, debts and distribution.
Important: Do not withdraw, transfer or conceal estate assets without authority. Debts and legal rights may need to be resolved before distribution.
Before you act
Dubai Courts states that heirs can use the inheritance court for an estate file and related civil, commercial, property and personal-status claims.
Official source and review note
Dubai Daily Guide reviewed this article on 14 October 2026 against Dubai Courts — Inheritance ↗. Check the live service before acting because eligibility, documents, fees, deadlines and processing steps can change.