Summary: A retrospective study in Iran analyzed palatal rugae patterns among three ethnicities (Fars, Turkmen, and Sistani) for forensic identification purposes. The study involved 309 dental casts from 181 females and 128 males aged 12-30 years. Significant differences were found in the number and types of rugae among the ethnic groups, particularly in women. Straight and wavy rugae shapes were most common. Differences in rugae length were noted in individuals under 18 years old. This research underscores the potential of palatal rugae as a reliable forensic tool for distinguishing between Iranian ethnicities, aiding in human identification efforts, especially in mass disasters.