Exploring Suicide Pacts in the UAE: A Retrospective Case Series and Contextual Review

Mass suicide, defined as two or more individuals ending their lives together either simultaneously or in sequence, represents an uncommon but important public health concern. Although global suicide rates remain high, collective suicides appear to be increasing and often arise from a combination of pressures such as financial hardship, psychiatric illness, and social dependency. This study aimed to explore this phenomenon by conducting a retrospective review of six cases recorded by the Forensic Medicine Department of Dubai Police between 2009 and 2013. Each case was analyzed through available forensic and circumstantial evidence, with inclusion limited to instances where clear mutual intent was demonstrated. The findings indicated that all six events involved elderly married couples, with methods including firearm use, carbon monoxide poisoning, and hanging. Suicide notes were present in most cases, while psychiatric history was infrequently documented. The results emphasize the vulnerability of older adults with physical or emotional dependency and highlight the need for targeted interventions in such populations. This study aimed to describe the demographic, forensic, and psychosocial characteristics of suicide pact cases in Dubai and to contextualize them within existing literature. A retrospective case series review was conducted on six suicide pact cases (12 individuals) recorded by the Forensic Medicine Department of Dubai Police, UAE, between 2009 and 2013. Cases were included based on clear evidence of mutual consent, such as suicide notes or corroborating police and witness narratives. All cases involved elderly married couples (mean age 78 years). Methods included firearms (three cases), carbon monoxide poisoning, hanging, and drowning. Suicide notes were present in five of six cases, while psychiatric history was documented in only one individual. The findings highlight the vulnerability of older adults with physical or emotional dependency in this region. The reliance on external examinations and the lack of psychological autopsies are important limitations. This case series provides valuable regional data on a rare phenomenon and underscores the need for targeted psychosocial support for elderly couples and enhanced forensic investigation practices.