The United Arab Emirates has decriminalized attempted suicide under recent amendments to its Crimes and Penalties Law, signaling a shift toward addressing mental health concerns with a focus on prevention and support rather than punishment. The changes, announced on October 8, 2026, form part of a Federal Decree Law that also updates penalties related to inciting or assisting suicide and revises sentencing rules in serious murder cases.

Under the new law, individuals who attempt to take their own lives will no longer face criminal prosecution. Instead, such cases will be treated from a humanitarian and therapeutic perspective, aiming to encourage people in psychological distress to seek timely medical and psychological help. Authorities anticipate that removing the threat of legal consequences will reduce fear and stigma, improve access to care, and strengthen suicide prevention initiatives.

While attempted suicide is no longer criminalized, the law introduces stricter penalties for those who encourage or assist others in taking their own lives. Punishments vary according to the severity of the outcomes. If a person survives a suicide attempt following incitement or assistance without serious injury, the offender may be subject to detention, a fine, or both.

In cases where the attempt causes permanent disability, illness, or incapacity for more than 20 days, penalties increase to imprisonment of three to five years alongside a fine. Where incitement or assistance results in death by suicide, offenders face between five and seven years in prison.

The law treats incitement or assistance as an aggravating factor if the victim is a minor or has diminished will or perception. When the victim lacks such faculties, the responsible party may be prosecuted under laws governing intentional murder or attempted intentional murder, depending on the circumstances.

Additionally, foreign nationals convicted of inciting or assisting suicide are subject to deportation. Courts may, however, waive punishment if an individual voluntarily intervenes and successfully prevents a suicide before it occurs, except in cases where the attempt leads to permanent disability, illness, or long-term incapacity.

These legislative changes reflect the UAE government’s growing emphasis on mental health support and suicide prevention, aligning legal frameworks with humanitarian considerations and the need for early intervention.