Credit card debt in UAE - After death?

[mohammed47]

I am new to this forum and am asking a question to help my friend out. About 4 months ago, my friend lost her husband in an accident in India. She is holding on to her job in Dubai and getting on with life. Her husband had a credit card in Dubai and had used up an amount to the tune of about 28K. With interest, late fee and other charges the balance is around 36K and mounting. (All in dirham)

My friend has managed to get the death certificate attested and transferred sponsorship of her son to her visa. However, the particular bank in question are calling her everyday and forcing her to clear the debt. The insurance claim in India would take time and the amount may not cover the outstanding. As per UAE law, does the family of the deceased stand responsible to clear the debt? Will she have to go to prison if this is unpaid? Can she approach the police and complain against the banks? She does not hold any add-on card or has not signed as a guarantor. A security cheque was issued by her late husband.

The bank representatives do not seem to understand this at all. Is this common in the UAE as I have read that a dishonoured cheque means jail?

Thank you for your patience.

[delron72]

the family is not responsible for the debt of the person individualy unless they have signed as guarantor.
but his property or any such valued items cannot be transfered to ur name without settlement of his debts .

[Mat-Pat]

I know this old but, to confirm, the family cannot receive any of the estate until all existing debts of the departed are settled?