Repatriation of Human Remains from UAE: Guide for All Expatriates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to over 200 nationalities, with expatriates making up approximately 90% of the population. Among them, around 28% are Indians and 12% are Pakistanis. With such a diverse international population, procedures for the repatriation of human remains from the UAE are critical in unfortunate times of loss.

Death of an Expatriate in the UAE

The loss of a cherished one is invariably challenging, and the situation is further complicated when it takes place in a foreign country. In the event of an expatriate’s death in the UAE, particularly in cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, the family is tasked with organizing the return of the deceased’s remains to their home nation. This undertaking necessitates legal documentation, collaboration with multiple governmental agencies, and associated financial expenses.

This guide provides emotional, logistical, and legal support for Indian nationals and other expatriate families.

What is Repatriation of Human Remains?

Repatriation is the process of transporting a deceased person back to their home country or country of origin. This complex process requires legal documentation, coordination with consulates, embalming, and airline approvals. It provides closure and respects religious and cultural traditions.

Initial Steps After the Death of an Expat in the UAE

1. Notify the police and hospital
   
2. Obtain a medical or forensic report
   
3. The police will certify the death
   
4. Inform the deceased’s sponsor or employer
   
5. Begin coordination with the embassy/consulate
   

General Repatriation Process in the UAE

Regardless of nationality, the process of repatriating a dead body from the UAE typically includes:

1. Obtaining a forensic report (If the death occurs outside a hospital)
2. Potential autopsy or toxicology report (Depending on the cause of death)
3. Submission of the forensic report to the police for certification
4. Issuance of a death certificate by the UAE Ministry of Health
5. Embalming and sealing of the body  (by airline regulations)

Repatriation of a Dead Body from Dubai to Other Countries

While many expatriates in the UAE are from India, a significant number also come from countries like Pakistan, the UK, and others. The process of body repatriation from Dubai varies slightly based on destination, but the core steps remain consistent.

Repatriation Process for Indian Nationals from UAE

The Indian Embassy in the United Arab Emirates offers comprehensive assistance for the repatriation of Indian nationals. In certain circumstances, if the family cannot afford the expenses, the Embassy may facilitate complimentary transportation of the deceased through Air India.

Required Documents for Repatriation to India

To send the body to India, the following documents are mandatory:

1. Death certificate (original + 7 copies)
   
2. Embalming certificate (original + 7 copies)
   
3. Transit certificate from the Ministry of Health
   
4. Letter from sponsor
   
5. The deceased’s passport and 2 copies
   
6. Passport copies of the accompanying relative
   
7. Airline ticket/booking confirmation
   
8. Family authorization letter

Embassy Assistance

• The Indian Embassy offers support free of charge, including on public holidays or outside working hours.
• Families may contact the Labour & Welfare Section to obtain a recommendation letter to be submitted to Air India for transportation arrangements.

Repatriation of a Dead Body from Dubai to Pakistan

For Pakistani nationals, the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai offers support and guidance. The process includes:

1. Obtaining a UAE death certificate
2. Police and forensic clearances
3. Embalming certificate
4. A no-objection letter from the consulate
5. Booking cargo or passenger space on the flight

In many cases, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) may assist in transporting the body, especially for financially constrained families.

Body Repatriation from Dubai to the UK

British citizens in the UAE can seek assistance from the British Embassy in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. The cost of body repatriation from Dubai to the UK is higher compared to Asia and may range from AED 20,000 to AED 30,000. The family should:

1. Appoint a local funeral director
2. Notify the UK Home Office and consulate
3. Comply with embalming and packaging requirements
4. Coordinate with cargo services and the airline
   

Repatriation of a Dead Body from the UAE to the Philippines

The Philippines has a significant expat population in the UAE. In the event of a Filipino national’s death, the Philippine Embassy (Abu Dhabi) or Consulate (Dubai) assists with repatriation.

Key Steps:

1. Obtain the death certificate, embalming certificate, and police/forensic report.
2. Secure a Transit Permit from the UAE Ministry of Health.
3. Get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Embassy or Consulate.
4. Provide the deceased’s passport and flight booking for cargo.
5. Submit an authorization letter if a representative will handle the repatriation..

Embassy Support:

The Embassy coordinates with UAE authorities, employers, and funeral homes. For local burial options, documentation and permits can also be arranged.

Estimated Cost of Repatriation from UAE

The cost to transport human remains varies based on the destination:

Destination	Estimated Cost (AED)
Asia (India/Pak)	15,000
UK	20,000 – 30,000
Africa	Up to 35,000
Philippines	12,000–18,000

Includes: embalming, documentation, coffin sealing, air cargo fees

Local Burial or Cremation in the UAE

If the family decides on a local burial or cremation, these documents are needed:

1. Original death certificate and seven copies
2. Written request from the next of kin for burial/cremation authorization
3. The deceased’s passport and two copies
4. Passport and two copies of the person authorized to handle the burial

Ensuring these documents are in order is essential for obtaining the necessary approvals from local authorities and proceeding with final rites according to UAE regulations.

Average Cost of a Dead Body Box in the UAE:

Type of Box	Estimated Cost (AED)	Notes
Basic Wooden Coffin	AED 1,000 – 2,000	For local burial
Air Cargo-Compliant Coffin	AED 2,500 – 5,000	Required for international repatriation
Sealed Zinc-Lined Coffin	AED 4,000 – 6,000+	Meets most airline and health regulations

Conclusion

Bringing a loved one back from the UAE requires meticulous planning and paperwork. Although the procedure may be difficult, knowing the necessary steps and obtaining assistance from the embassy guarantees a dignified and prompt return to their home country. FranGulf Advocates & Legal Consultants LLC provides sensitive, expert assistance during your most difficult moments. This guide also helps families understand how to navigate the logistics, documentation, and emotional challenges of repatriation—whether it’s to India, Pakistan, the UK, or any other country.