The UAE’s Dynamic Demographics: A Melting Pot of Growth and Diversity

UAE Population 2025 (Key Statistics)

As of March 2025, the UAE’s population is 11.35 million, with Dubai at 3.84 million and Abu Dhabi at 3.78 million. The expatriate population is 11.06 million, with 7.24 million males and 4.11 million females. The Indian community is around 4 million, and the largest age group is 25-54 years (7.28 million). The urban population is 10 million, and the rural population is 1.35 million, with a population density of 134.5 people per square kilometre.

Demographics and Gender Imbalance

The UAE shows a significant gender imbalance, with 63.80% males and 36.20% females, largely due to the male-dominated expatriate workforce in sectors like construction and technology. The population is predominantly young and middle-aged adults, with 7.28 million in the 25-54 age bracket, driving the country’s dynamic economy.

Population by Emirates

Dubai is the most populated emirate at 3.84 million, followed by Abu Dhabi at 3.79 million. Sharjah has 1.8 million residents, Ajman 504,846, Ras Al Khaimah 400,000, Fujairah 316,790, and Umm Al Quwain 49,159. Expatriates make up 88.5% of the population, with the largest communities being Indians (4 million), Bangladeshis (0.84 million), and Filipinos (0.78 million).

Urbanization and Expatriates

The UAE is highly urbanized, with 88.10% of the population living in cities, while 1.35 million reside in rural areas, preserving traditional Emirati culture. The country’s population has grown significantly from 10.24 million in 2024, driven by Abu Dhabi’s expansion. Expatriates make up 88.50% (11.06 million) of the population, with Emiratis accounting for 11.50% (1.44 million).

Historical Population Growth

The UAE’s population has surged to 12.50 million, with Abu Dhabi’s population reaching 3.79 million. This growth includes 1.01 million in 1980, nearly doubling to 1.82 million by 1990 due to job creation, reaching 4.58 million by 2005 from large construction projects, and steady growth to 12.50 million from 2015-2024, driven by sustainable development initiatives.

Religion and Literacy

Islam is the main religion in the UAE, practiced by 76.9% of the population. The diverse expatriate community includes Christians (9%), Hindus and Buddhists (10%), and other religions (5%), reflecting the UAE’s multicultural environment. The UAE’s literacy rate has risen to 98% in 2024 from 90% in 2005, driven by consistent socio-economic policies and the influx of educated expatriates.

Historical Context

The UAE’s history dates back to the 19th-century treaty forming the “Trucial States,” gaining independence from Britain to become the UAE. With a population of just 70,000 in 1950, the discovery of oil in the late 1950s spurred economic transformation, driving infrastructure development and a significant influx of foreign labor.

Country Profile

The UAE, formerly the Trucial States, is a federation of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi (capital), Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. Covering 83,600 km², it relies on its oil sector and is governed by the Federal Supreme Council, led by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice-Presidents Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Arabic is the official language, Islam the official religion, and the currency is the dirham.

Future Population Projections

The UAE’s population is expected to peak at 10.71 million in 2033, with a net increase of 1 person per minute, before declining to 9.03 million by the end of the century. The growth rate of 1.47% is projected to decrease to 0.68% in 2025, with the population reaching 11.05 million by 2030, 12.21 million by 2040, and 13.16 million by 2050, reflecting a well-developed economy and diverse nationalities.

Conclusion:

The UAE’s remarkable demographic transformation, driven by expat-friendly policies and economic diversification, has positioned it as a global hub for professionals and tourists alike. With a population projected to peak at 10.71 million in 2033, the country continues to attract a diverse array of nationalities, contributing to its vibrant cultural landscape and robust economic growth. As the UAE invests in infrastructure, renewable energy, and nuclear energy, its future remains promising, ensuring sustained development and prosperity for its residents.