Islamic Inheritance Law in Saudi Arabia — A Complete Guide

Saudi Arabia's inheritance system is rooted in Islamic jurisprudence. Shares are fixed by the Quran and Sunnah — structured, but requiring careful calculation when multiple heirs are involved.

Primary Heir Categories

• Spouse — wife: 1/8 (with children) or 1/4; husband: 1/4 or 1/2
• Daughters — 1/2 for one, 2/3 for two or more (without sons)
• Mother — 1/6 or 1/3 depending on heirs present
• Father — 1/6 fixed share when sons exist, otherwise residual heir
• Sons — residual heirs, receiving double the share of daughters

The Saudi Estates Platform

The Ministry of Justice's Estates Platform allows heirs to settle estates electronically — listing heirs, calculating shares, and registering the distribution — all without visiting a court, provided all parties agree.