When a loved one passes away in the United Arab Emirates, bringing their body home to Pakistan can feel overwhelming. This guide explains the full legal process, required documents, costs, and key precautions so families can navigate the journey with clarity and respect.
Quick Overview
The repatriation process typically follows these major steps:
- Obtain the hospital medical report / death notification
- File a police report and get an initial NOC
- Secure the official UAE death certificate and attest it
- Contact the Pakistani Consulate/Embassy for NOC and passport cancellation
- Arrange cargo booking with the airline (e.g., PIA)
- Complete embalming, coffin preparation, and final cargo clearance
Throughout the process, the next of kin or a legally authorized representative must provide affidavits and identification documents.
Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Medical Report / Death Notification
If the death occurs in a hospital, the hospital issues a preliminary Death Notification/Medical Report.
- If death occurs outside a hospital, call 999 immediately so the police can document the case and provide an initial report.
2. Police Report & Initial NOC
Visit the nearest police station with the hospital notification or incident details to file a formal report.
- The police will issue an official report or NOC, which is essential for all subsequent procedures.
3. Official UAE Death Certificate
Using the police letter, obtain the formal Death Certificate from the local health authority (e.g., Dubai Health Authority).
- Request both Arabic and English copies.
- Get the certificate attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) to ensure it is accepted in Pakistan.
4. Contact the Pakistan Consulate or Embassy
Present the death certificate to the Pakistani consulate/embassy. They will:
- Verify the deceased’s original passport and photocopies
- Collect an affidavit from the legal heir or next of kin
- Issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for repatriation
- Guide you on passport cancellation and other paperwork
5. Passport & Visa Cancellation
Follow consular instructions to cancel the deceased’s UAE residence visa and passport.
- Airlines will not issue a cargo booking until visa cancellation is completed.
6. Airline Cargo Arrangements
Once the NOC and all documents are ready, contact the airline’s cargo/freight section (e.g., PIA) to book the body’s transport.
- Required documents typically include:
- Attested death certificate
- Consular NOC
- Passport copy
- Immigration clearance
- Embalming/coffin confirmation
7. Final Cargo Handover
Take the body, along with all original documents (death certificate, police letter, consular NOC, passport copy, heir affidavit, and cargo ticket) to the airline cargo office.
- The office will complete final clearance and issue the necessary cargo permit for departure.
Essential Document Checklist
- Hospital Medical Report / Death Notification (original)
- Police report / NOC (stamped original)
- UAE Death Certificate (Arabic & English, MOFA-attested)
- Consular NOC for repatriation
- Original passport of the deceased and copies
- Affidavit of next of kin/authorized representative
- Embalming certificate (if required by airline)
- Airline cargo booking / e-ticket
Estimated Cost
The entire process generally costs around AED 4,500, depending on:
- Hospital and embalming charges
- Cargo fees
- Consular fees
- Airline requirements
Actual expenses may vary slightly by emirate and service provider.
Key Legal & Safety Notes
- UAE law requires police reporting, official death certification, and MOFA attestation before international repatriation.
- The Pakistani consulate may request extra identification or affidavits from the legal heir.
- Beware of unauthorized agents who may charge excessive fees. Always confirm procedures and costs directly with official consular offices.
Sample Affidavit (For Consular NOC)
I, (Name of Heir), son/daughter of (Father’s Name), holder of (UAE/PK ID number), hereby confirm that I am the legal heir/authorized representative of the deceased (Name of Deceased). I authorize the repatriation of the body to Pakistan and confirm completion of all legal formalities, including passport and visa cancellation.
Signature: _________ Date: _________
Final Thoughts
Repatriating a loved one is emotionally challenging, but following this structured, legal process ensures a dignified and respectful return. Keep all original documents safely, coordinate closely with the Pakistani Consulate, and rely only on authorized airline and government offices to avoid delays or additional costs.
📌 Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always confirm requirements with UAE authorities and the Pakistani consulate before proceeding.
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