The United Arab Emirates has amended its Crimes and Penalties Law to decriminalise attempted suicide, marking a legislative shift toward a preventive and therapeutic approach to mental health crises.
Announced on Thursday, October 8, the amendment ensures that individuals who attempt suicide will no longer face criminal prosecution. Previously, attempted suicide was classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in prison, a fine of up to Dh5,000, or both. The government stated the policy change is designed to eliminate the fear of legal repercussions, thereby encouraging those experiencing psychological distress and their families to seek timely medical assistance.
Legal experts noted that the amendment reflects a progressive effort to prioritise healthcare over legal deterrence, ensuring individuals in crisis receive care rather than punishment. This development builds upon previous legislative changes in 2020, which decriminalised acts of self-harm and mandated that individuals involved be referred for psychiatric evaluation and treatment.
