What is the ruling on the property of a Dhimmi who dies without an heir?

Chapter on Distant Kindred (Dhawu al-Arham)

Al-Mughni

Book of Inheritance Shares (Farā'id)

Book 32 · Issue 1 · Bab 5

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The property of a Dhimmi who dies without an heir is considered Fay' (spoils/unclaimed property). This principle extends to any remaining assets of a Dhimmi after the rightful heirs have received their shares, such as when only one spouse remains as the heir; the excess remaining after the spouse's inheritance share is also Fay'. This is because such property lacks a designated beneficiary, causing it to revert to the status of Fay', similar to the property of a deceased Muslim who leaves no heirs.