Archive · 27 Jul 2026
Gulf nations account for 70% of Indian suicides abroad
Over the last three years, more than 1,900 Indian citizens living abroad have died by suicide.
Most of these cases, over 70%, happened in Gulf countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait.
Around 10 million Indian citizens and people of Indian origin live in these Gulf countries.
The high number of suicides is linked to tough working conditions and not enough help for mental health.
Other countries with Indian expatriates, like Malaysia and the United States, also saw some cases, but not as many as the Gulf countries.
Over 1,900 Indian citizens abroad died by suicide between 2023 and 2025.
Gulf countries accounted for over 70% of these suicides, with 1,340 cases.
The UAE had the highest number of suicides among Indian citizens, with 511 cases.
Around 10 million Indian citizens and persons of Indian origin live in Gulf countries.
Harsh working conditions and inadequate mental health support are key factors.
- Who
- Indian citizens and persons of Indian origin living abroad
- What
- Suicides among Indian expatriates
- When
- Between 2023 and 2025
- Where
- Gulf countries, Malaysia, United States, Italy, Canada, United Kingdom
- Why
- Harsh working conditions, exploitation, and inadequate mental health support
Employment conditions
Mental health support
Causes of suicides
Employment conditions
Harsh working conditions and exploitation of Indian workers in Gulf countries contribute to mental health issues.
Mental health support
Inadequate mental health support and services for Indian expatriates in Gulf countries lead to higher suicide rates.
- Total Indian suicides abroad (2023-2025)
- 1,900+
- Gulf countries suicides (2023-2025)
- 1,340
- Top country for suicides (UAE)
- 511
- Indian population in Gulf countries
- 10 million
- Percentage of suicides in Gulf countries
- 70%