What happens to property ownership in Dubai if a foreign owner passes away, and what documents are required for the transfer?

When a foreign property owner passes away in Dubai, the ownership of their real estate is transferred to their legal heirs, based on a probate ruling from a competent court (UAE or foreign, depending on the case). The Dubai Land Department will only process the transfer once legal succession is established.

Required Documents for Ownership Transfer:

1. Death certificate (attested and translated if issued outside the UAE)

2. Heirship certificate or probate ruling from a UAE court or recognized foreign jurisdiction

3. Passport copies of the legal heirs

4. Original title deed

5. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer (if applicable)

6. Succession plan or registered will (if available, especially under DIFC Wills Service)

Important:
Foreign nationals are advised to register a will in Dubai, either under UAE law or through the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry, to clearly define how assets will be distributed.