The UAE, recognized as one of the safest countries in the world, has witnessed a steady rise in its population over the years.
This growth is not merely a result of safety but a combination of factors, including its open-border-for-work policy, expat-friendly laws, and a wealth of professional opportunities.
Today, the UAE is a melting pot of cultures, hosting people from over 200 different nationalities.
With an array of development plans in the pipeline, ranging from infrastructure developments to renewable and nuclear energy generation, the country’s future appears promising.
More people are expected to relocate to the UAE drawn by the opportunities it offers.
Now, let’s delve into the ‘UAE Population Statistics 2025’ and see what demographic changes have occurred in 2025.
UAE Population 2025 (Key Statistics)
As of May 2025, the population of the United Arab Emirates stands at 11.35 million, based on data collected by the GMI research team. This figure includes both UAE nationals and expatriates living across the seven emirates.
Dubai’s population reached 3.94 million in May 2025, mainly due to more people moving in for work and better living. The city keeps growing as a popular place for business and modern living
According to the latest Abu Dhabi census 2023, the population of Abu Dhabi stands at 3.78 Million.
The total male population in the UAE in 2025 is approximately 7.24 million
The total female population in the UAE in 2025 is 4.11 million
According to research by the GMI Team, the total expat population in the UAE in 2025 is 10.04 million, while the number of Emirati citizens is 1.31 million. This mix of people is important for the country’s growth and culture.
In 2025, the Indian community in the UAE is estimated to number nearly 4.36 million, accounting for approximately 38.45% of the country’s total population. They represent the largest expatriate group and contribute significantly to the UAE’s economy and daily life.
The largest age bracket in the UAE’s population falls between 25 and 54 years, making up 7.28 million people.
In 2025, the UAE’s urban population reached 10 million, with 1.35 million people living in rural areas. This highlights the country’s strong focus on city life and development.
It’s interesting to note that the median age of the population in the UAE is 31.6 years old. This figure offers a glimpse into the country’s demographic profile, suggesting a relatively young and dynamic populace.
In 2025, the UAE has a population density of 159.7 people per square kilometer, showing how closely people live together in key areas, especially in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
UAE Population 2025 (Infographics)
Demographic Insights of UAE in 2025
Thus far, our 2025 data study has allowed us to categorise the UAE’s demographic data into:
Gender Distribution
Gender | Population | Percentage |
Male | 7.24 Million | 63.80% |
Female | 4.11 Million | 36.20% |
The UAE’s population in 2025 has a noticeable gender imbalance, with males significantly outnumbering females.
Out of the total population, 7.24 million are men, making up a hefty 63.80%.
Meanwhile, 4.11 million are women, accounting for 36.20%.
This gap is largely due to the country’s large expatriate workforce, which consists mainly of male workers in industries like construction, technology, and business.
The trend reflects the UAE’s role as a global hub for employment and economic opportunities, attracting workers from all over the world.
Despite the difference in numbers, both men and women play a crucial role in shaping the UAE’s vibrant society, economy, and culture.
The country continues to evolve, with increasing efforts toward gender balance in the workforce and leadership roles.
UAE Population by Age
Age Group | Population | Percentage |
0-14 years | 1.81 Million | 15.98% |
15-24 years | 1.44 Million | 12.71% |
25-54 years | 7.28 Million | 64.12% |
55-64 years | 0.61 Million | 5.40% |
65 years and over | 0.20 Million | 1.79% |
Did you know that the UAE’s population in 2025 is largely made up of young and middle-aged adults?
Let’s break it down!
Children and teenagers (0-14 years) make up 1.81 million people, accounting for 15.98% of the total population.
Meanwhile, young adults aged 15-24 years contribute another 1.44 million (or 12.71%).
The biggest group by far?
Adults in their prime working years (25-54 years), forming a whopping 7.28 million people, which is 64.12% of the population!
This highlights the UAE’s strong workforce and dynamic economy.
As we move up in age, those between 55-64 years make up 5.40% of the population, or about 0.61 million people.
Finally, seniors aged 65 and over form the smallest group, with 0.20 million individuals, just 1.79% of the total.
Overall, the UAE has a youthful and active demographic, with a majority of its residents in the working-age category.
This is a key factor driving the country’s growth and development!
UAE Population by Gender
Age Group | Men Population | Women Population |
0-14 years | 0.91 Million | 0.90 Million |
15-24 years | 0.85 Million | 0.59 Million |
25-54 years | 4.97 Million | 2.30 Million |
55-64 years | 0.39 Million | 0.22 Million |
65 years and over | 0.11 Million | 0.09 Million |
In 2025, the UAE’s population is shaped by a clear gender distribution across different age groups.
Let’s dive in!
Among children and teenagers (0-14 years), the numbers are almost equal, with 0.91 million boys and 0.90 million girls, showing a balanced start.
However, as we move to young adults (15-24 years), the gap widens, with 0.85 million men compared to 0.59 million women.
This trend continues into the working-age group (25-54 years), where 4.97 million men far outnumber 2.30 million women—a reflection of the UAE’s large male workforce in key industries.
In the 55-64 age group, the population starts to decline, with 0.39 million men and 0.22 million women.
Finally, in the 65+ category, the numbers are the lowest, with 0.11 million men and 0.09 million women, highlighting a smaller elderly population.
Overall, the UAE’s 2025 demographic structure reveals a significant gender imbalance, particularly in the working-age population, shaped by labor migration and economic opportunities.
UAE Population by Emirates in 2025
Location | Population |
Dubai | 3,943,683 |
Abu Dhabi | 3,789,860 |
Sharjah | 1,808,000 |
Ajman | 504,846 |
Ras al-Khaimah | 400,000 |
Fujairah | 316,790 |
Umm Al Quwain | 49,159 |
⚠️ Disclaimer: The information provided here is gathered from reliable sources but may change, as most emirates do not have their latest population reports available.
The UAE’s population in 2025 is spread across its seven emirates, with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah leading the way.
Dubai remains the most populated emirate, with 3,943,683 residents, according to the Dubai Statistics Center.
Abu Dhabi follows closely with 3,789,860 people, as per the Abu Dhabi Census 2023.
Sharjah, a growing hub for families and businesses, has a population of 1.8 million.
For the other emirates, the latest available data provides estimates of their populations.
Ajman has around 504,846 residents, based on 2017 data.
Ras Al Khaimah, with a population of 400,000 from 2023 data, continues to grow as a key economic and tourism destination.
Fujairah, home to 316,790 people (based on 2022 figures), plays a vital role in maritime trade.
Meanwhile, Umm Al Quwain, the least populated emirate, had 49,159 residents as per 2005 records, with no recent official updates.
While some population figures are based on older data due to the lack of recent official updates, the UAE’s overall population continues to grow, driven by economic expansion, infrastructure development, and increasing expatriate migration.
UAE Population 2025: Emirati vs. Expat
Nationality | Population | Percentage |
Emirati | 1.31 Million | 11.50% |
Expat | 10.04 Million | 88.50% |
The UAE’s population in 2025 continues to be largely made up of expatriates, who account for a massive 88.5% of the total population.
That’s 10.04 million expats living and working in the country, contributing to its diverse and dynamic society.
Meanwhile, the Emirati population stands at 1.31 million, making up 11.5% of the total.
While a smaller percentage, Emiratis play a crucial role in shaping the country’s culture, leadership, and development.
With the UAE’s reputation as a global business hub, its expat community keeps growing, bringing in talent from all over the world.
At the same time, the government continues to invest in Emirati development, ensuring a balance between national identity and international influence.
UAE Population by Nationality 2025
Nationality | Population | Percentage |
India | 4.36 Million* | 38.45% |
Pakistan | 1.90 Million | 16.72% |
Bangladesh | 0.84 Million | 7.38% |
Philippines | 0.78 Million | 6.89% |
Iran | 0.54 Million | 4.72% |
Egypt | 0.48 Million | 4.23% |
Nepal | 0.36 Million | 3.15% |
Sri Lanka | 0.36 Million | 3.15% |
China | 0.24 Million | 2.16% |
All other countries | 0.19 Million | 1.66% |
📌 Note: *Figure according to a recent statement by the Consul General of India to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, Satish Kumar Sivan.
As of 2025, expatriates make up a significant majority of the UAE’s population, totaling approximately 10.04 million people, which equals 88.5% of the country’s total population.
Among these, Indians form the largest group with 4.36 million residents, accounting for 38.45% of the population.
Pakistanis follow with 1.9 million (16.72%), and Bangladeshis are next with 0.84 million (7.38%).
The Filipino community numbers 0.78 million (6.89%), while Iranians and Egyptians represent 0.54 million (4.72%) and 0.48 million (4.23%) respectively.
Nepalese and Sri Lankans each account for 0.36 million (3.15%).
The Chinese population stands at 0.24 million, contributing 2.16% to the total.
All other nationalities combined add up to 0.19 million, or 1.66%.
This data reflects the UAE’s diverse and international population, with expatriates forming the backbone of the country’s labor force and contributing to its multicultural society.
Indian Population in UAE
As of 2025, the Indian expatriate population in the United Arab Emirates stands at approximately 4.36 million, according to Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.
This figure represents the largest expatriate community in the country, accounting for 38.45% of the total UAE population.
In comparison, the official count in December 2023 was 3.89 million, indicating a significant year-on-year increase.
The Indian community in the UAE is engaged across a wide range of sectors, including construction, healthcare, information technology, education, and retail.
Over the years, they have played a crucial role in supporting the nation’s infrastructure and service industries.
Beyond their economic contributions, the Indian diaspora has established a strong social and cultural presence in the UAE.
The community has founded numerous educational institutions, cultural organizations, religious centers, and small to medium-sized enterprises, reflecting their deep-rooted presence in the region.
This steady growth not only highlights the enduring relationship between India and the UAE but also underscores the vital role the Indian community continues to play in the country’s economic development and multicultural identity.
UAE Population 2025 (Urban vs Rural)
Urban | 10.00 Million | 88.10% |
Rural | 1.35 Million | 11.90% |
The UAE is an urban powerhouse, with the vast majority of its population—10 million people (88.10%)—living in cities.
With world-class infrastructure, towering skyscrapers, and thriving business hubs, it’s no surprise that urban areas dominate the country’s landscape.
On the other hand, 1.35 million people (11.90%) reside in rural areas, where life moves at a slower pace, often centered around agriculture, heritage sites, and traditional Emirati culture.
While smaller in number, these communities play a vital role in preserving the UAE’s rich history and natural beauty.
This contrast between bustling urban centers and tranquil rural landscapes highlights the UAE’s unique balance between rapid modernization and cultural heritage.
UAE Population By Year (1980 – 2025)
Year | Population | Year % Change |
2025 | 11.35 Million | 10.84% |
2024 | 10.24 Million | 22.91% |
2023 | 10.17 Million | 0.89% |
2022 | 10.08 Million | 0.90% |
2021 | 9.99 Million | 1.01% |
2020 | 9.89 Million | 2.17% |
2015 | 9.26 Million | 8.43% |
2010 | 8.54 Million | 86.46% |
2005 | 4.58 Million | 46.33% |
2000 | 3.13 Million | 29.88% |
1995 | 2.41 Million | 32.42% |
1990 | 1.82 Million | 33.82% |
1985 | 1.36 Million | 34.65% |
1980 | 1.01 Million | 0% |
The UAE’s population has grown rapidly over the past few decades, reflecting its transformation into a global hub.
In 1980, the population was just 1.01 million, but as the country developed, more people moved to the UAE for work, business, and a better lifestyle.
By 2005, the population had jumped to 4.58 million, and in just five more years, it nearly doubled to 8.54 million in 2010.
Growth continued steadily, reaching 9.89 million in 2020 and over 10 million by 2023.
Now, in 2025, the UAE’s population stands at 11.35 million, showing how the country continues to attract people from all over the world.
This rise is driven by strong economic opportunities, world-class infrastructure, and a high standard of living, making the UAE a top destination for both residents and businesses.
Why Population Statistics Matter to Your Marketing in the UAE
As a digital marketing company based right here in Dubai, we believe that understanding people is the foundation of any successful marketing strategy.
That’s why we keep a close eye on population trends within the UAE and the wider Middle East.
By understanding who makes up your audience, their needs, and how they’re evolving, we can create more effective campaigns for you.
By sharing our UAE Population 2025 blog with you—our valued clients—we aim to help you better understand the demographic shifts taking place in the region.
This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions when planning your targeted marketing efforts—whether it’s search ads, social media campaigns, or SEO services.
Ultimately, a better understanding of the population helps us help you connect with your ideal customers more effectively.
For a broader perspective on demographic trends across the region, be sure to explore our comprehensive GCC population statistics report.
⚠️ Disclaimer & Note: This content is for general informational purposes only. We are not responsible for any errors, financial loss, or damages that may result from its use or reliance. Please verify the information with official sources as needed. Also, please note that population figures may vary slightly as they are updated from multiple sources.
UAE Population 2024 (Key Statistics)
As of December 2024, The population of UAE is 12.50 Million, according to the research by GMI Team.
The UAE’s population estimate in 2024 has increased to 12.50 million from 10.24 million (which we reported in the Q1 of 2024), is primarily driven by Abu Dhabi’s population official census rise from 1.59 million to 3.78 million.
According to the official statistics by the Dubai Government, the Dubai population stands at 3.81 Million as of December 2024.
According to the latest Abu Dhabi census, the population of Abu Dhabi stands at 3,789,860 as of 2024.
According to the research done by GMI Team, the total Expat population in UAE in 2024 stands at 11.06 Million.
The total male population in UAE 2024 is 8.63 Million.
The total female population in UAE 2024 is 3.87 Million.
The largest age bracket in the UAE’s population falls between 25 to 54 years, making up 8.58 million people.
In 2024, the urban population of the UAE stands at 11.00 million, while the rural population constitutes 1.25 million people.
The median age of the population in the UAE is 33.6 years.
The population density in the UAE (people per sq. km) is 134.5.
UAE Population 2024 (Infographics)
The population of the UAE in 2024 has reached 12.50 million from 10.24 million marking a significant increase.
This growth is largely due to the rise in Abu Dhabi’s population, which has surged from 1.59 million to 3.79 million.
The latest figures released by the Abu Dhabi government census highlight this substantial demographic shift.
Demographics of UAE in 2024
According to our 2024 data study, the demographic data of the UAE can be classified into:
Gender Split
Gender | Population | Percentage |
Male | 8.63 Million | 69.01% |
Female | 3.87 Million | 30.99% |
In the UAE’s population breakdown by gender, men make up 8.63 million while women account for 3.87 million.
The gender distribution shown above results from many factors, including family dynamics, education, job scenarios, etc.
However, this balance can shift as society, economics and policy over time.
UAE Population by Age
Age Group | Population | Percentage |
0-14 years | 1.89 Million | 15.12% |
15-24 years | 1.14 Million | 9.14% |
25-54 years | 8.58 Million | 68.62% |
55-64 years | 0.65 Million | 5.21% |
65 years and over | 0.24 Million | 1.92% |
The population distribution across various age groups in the UAE demonstrates a notable concentration within the 25 to 54 years range.
It constitutes the largest portion at 68.62%, equivalent to approximately 8.58 million people.
The younger demographic, aged 0-14 years, accounts for 15.12%, totalling approximately 1.89 million individuals.
The age group of 15-24 years represents 9.14% of the population, comprising about 1.14 million people.
Notably smaller but still significant, the 55-64 years group comprises 5.21% of the population, amounting to approximately 0.65 million individuals.
The older demographic, aged 65 years and over, constitutes 1.92% of the population, totalling around 0.24 million people, reflecting a relatively smaller yet distinct part of the population in the UAE.
The age distribution of the UAE in 2024 clearly shows that the population mainly consists of working-class individuals.
This shows that the UAE is a booming economy with many growth opportunities.
UAE Population by Gender
Age Group | Men Population | Women Population |
0-14 years | 0.98 Million | 0.91 Million |
15-24 years | 0.68 Million | 0.46 Million |
25-54 years | 6.37 Million | 2.21 Million |
55-64 years | 0.47 Million | 0.18 Million |
65 years and over | 0.13 Million | 0.11 Million |
Looking into specific age groups, within the 0-14 year bracket, there are 0.98 million boys and 0.91 million girls.
In the 15-24 years range, the male population is 0.68 million, while females are 0.46 million.
Notably, between 25 and 54 years, the male population is 6.37 million, whereas women in the same age range total 2.21 million.
In the 55-64 years age range, there are 0.47 million men compared to 0.18 million women.
Finally, for individuals aged 65 years and older, men account for 0.13 million, slightly outnumbering women at 0.11 million in this age category.
The gender distribution shown above results from many factors, including family dynamics, education, job scenarios, etc.
However, this balance can shift as society, economics, and policy change over time.
UAE Population by Emirates
Location | Population |
Dubai | 3,811,549 |
Abu Dhabi | 3,789,860 |
Sharjah | 1,808,000 |
Ajman | 504,846 |
Ras al-Khaimah | 345,000 |
Fujairah | 256,256 |
Umm Al Quwain | 49,159 |
Disclaimer: The information provided here is gathered from reliable sources but may change, as most emirates do not have their latest population reports available.
The population distribution among the Emirates in the UAE illustrates a clear dominance of areas such as Dubai, housing 3,811,549 individuals, and Abu Dhabi with 3,789,860 residents.
Sharjah follows closely with a population of 1,808,000, showcasing a considerable concentration of residents as well. For more details, visit the blog on Sharjah’s population.
In contrast, the remaining Emirates exhibit smaller population sizes, with Ajman totalling 504,846 inhabitants, and Ras al-Khaimah at 345,000.
Al Fujayrah has 256,256 residents, and Umm al Qaywayn has the smallest population at 49,159.
Various factors like economic opportunities, cultural attractions, and infrastructure development all contribute to the different population sizes among the emirates.
Emirati Vs Expatriates
Nationality | Population | Percentage |
Emirati | 1.44 Million | 11.50% |
Expat | 11.06 Million | 88.50% |
The expat population in the UAE stands at 11.06 million, significantly larger than the Emirati population, which totals 1.44 million.
Expat residents constitute approximately 88.50% of the population, while Emiratis make up around 11.50%.
In the above context, the government is taking steps to help increase the Emirates population.
For example, the Dubai Social Agenda 33 aims to increase the number of Emirati families by 2033.
The agenda also aims to provide more jobs to Emiratis in the private sector.
UAE Population 2024 (Urban vs Rural)
Urban | 11.00 Million | 87.90% |
Rural | 1.25 Million | 12.10% |
The statistics depict a significant urban-centric demographic in the UAE, with 87.90% (11.00 million) of the population residing in urban areas and only 12.10% (1.25 million) in rural areas.
With improved access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities, people prefer settling in urban areas in 2024.
UAE Population By Year (1980 – 2024)
Year | Population | Year % Change |
2024 | 12.50 Million* | 22.91% |
2023 | 10.17 Million | 0.89% |
2022 | 10.08 Million | 0.90% |
2021 | 9.99 Million | 1.01% |
2020 | 9.89 Million | 2.17% |
2019 | 9.68 Million | 1.47% |
2018 | 9.54 Million | 0.63% |
2017 | 9.48 Million | 1.28% |
2016 | 9.36 Million | 1.08% |
2015 | 9.26 Million | 8.43% |
2010 | 8.54 Million | 86.46% |
2005 | 4.58 Million | 46.33% |
2000 | 3.13 Million | 29.88% |
1995 | 2.41 Million | 32.42% |
1990 | 1.82 Million | 33.82% |
1985 | 1.36 Million | 34.65% |
1980 | 1.01 Million | 0% |
The UAE’s population story is like a journey.
In 1980, there were 1.01 million people.
By 1990, it almost doubled to 1.82 million, thanks to more jobs and a growing economy.
In the 2000s, the population skyrocketed to 4.58 million by 2005.
Big construction projects and a thriving economy brought in lots of people from around the world.
From 2015 to 2024, the population still increased, but not as fast.
At present, it stands at 12.50 million.
Government initiatives focusing on sustainable development and managing population growth have played a role in this shift.
UAE Population by Religion
Although Islam is the main religion in UAE with 76.9% of people practising it, we must remember that this country is home to many expats.
So along with Muslims, we can also see Christians(9%), Hindus and Buddhists(10%), and other religions(5%) thriving here.
Literate Population of UAE
According to the latest data from the World Bank, the UAE’s literacy rate is 98%.
It was 90% in 2005 and 96% in 2019.
That means there has been a consistent growth in the literacy rate in the country thanks to the government’s socio economic policies.
One of the other more obvious reasons is that the UAE is a country of expats.
Because of the employment opportunities it offers, educated people from all over the world come and settle in the UAE.
UAE History
The UAE began its journey from the treaty between the British and the Emirates in the 19th century.
The coalition of the Emirates was called the “Trucial States”.
Once the Trucial State was liberated from the British treaty, the UAE was born.
In 1950, the population of UAE was just 70,000 but with the discovery of oil in the late 1950s a huge economic and social transformation began.
As infrastructural activities began in full swing, the need for foreign labour increased.
Since then, the UAE has seen a huge number of people trickling in to gain from the profitable economic bustle including trade, real estate, construction etc.
Now let us probe into the population statistics and try to understand it clearly.
United Arab Emirates – Country Profile
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), formerly the Trucial States, is located at the eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula.
It is a federation of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi (capital), Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
The country spans an area of 83,600 km2 and heavily relies on its oil sector.
The UAE runs as a federation with a single advisory body, The Federation Supreme Council.
At present, the president of the council is Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has been appointed as the UAE Vice-President with the approval of the UAE Federal Supreme Council.
Concurrently, the incumbent Vice President, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will continue in his current role.
The official language here is Arabic, the official religion is Islam, and the currency used here is the dirham.
Dubai Population in 2024
Dubai’s journey began in 1833 with around 800 settlers.
Fast forward to the 1930s, and the population had boomed to almost 20,000, steadily growing since.
Why do people love Dubai?
Well, besides its stunning beauty and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a hotspot for expatriates.
The city’s bustling economy and lots of job opportunities make it a top choice for settling down.
Now, Dubai is racing ahead as one of the fastest-growing cities globally, with a population of 3,811,549.
Dubai has a bustling population, and its unique charm and abundant opportunities continue to attract people from all around the world.
Abu Dhabi Population in 2024
According to the latest Abu Dhabi Emirate Population Census (2023), the total population has reached a staggering 3.78 million.
It also reveals the emirate’s total labour force as 2.52 million.
The census also reveals the emirate’s total labor force as 2.52 million, highlighting significant demographic changes and the dynamic expansion of Abu Dhabi’s workforce.
Here is a detailed analysis of the Emirate’s population:
Abu Dhabi’s population increased by 83% since 2011, reaching 3,789,860 people last year.
Males constitute 67% of the population, which means there are twice as many males as females.
The median age of Abu Dhabi’s population is 33 years.
The UAE’s population is concentrated in the Abu Dhabi region, where 2,495,925 people reside, making up 66% of the total. Al Ain comes in second with a population of 1,009,735 (27%), while Al Dhafra is home to 284,205 residents (7%).
There was an 82% increase in the employed population since 2011, with the total employment reaching 2,522,390 individuals.
The total Abu Dhabi workforce comprises white-collar workers who make up 46% of the employed population (which saw a 109% increase since 2011) and blue-collar workers who make up the rest of the 54% of the employed population (which saw a 65% increase since 2011).
The number of residential and non-residential units increased by 66% since 2011, totalling 754,555 units, with 441,410 being residential (58%) and 313,145 non-residential (42%).
UAE Population 2023 (Key Statistics)
As of December 2023, the population of UAE is 10.17 Million, a 0.89% increase from 2022, according to the research by GMI Team.
The population density of the UAE stands at 121.59 person Km2, with most of the population residing in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
According to the research done by GMI, the total Expat population in UAE in 2023 stands at 9.0 Million.
In 2023, the UAE’s urban population is 8.91 million, and the rural population is 1.26 million.
UAE Population 2023 (Infographics)
Demographics of UAE in 2023
Based on our data study, the demographic data of the UAE in 2023 can be classified into:
Gender Split
Gender | Population | Percentage |
Male | 6.97 Million | 68.58% |
Female | 3.20 Million | 31.42% |
In 2023, the gender split in the UAE continues to show a wide margin. Out of the total population of 10.17 million people, the male population makes up 68.58% i.e. 6.97 million and the female population stands at a total of 3.2 million, making up only 31.42% of the population.
This difference could be attributed to the increasing number of male expatriates in the nation’s workforce, as most of the available jobs for immigrants are dependent on male labour.
Life expectancy along with certain societal and cultural factors also influence roles and opportunities provided to each gender which has resulted in gender disparity.
A point to remember here is that these figures can vary based on region and age group.
UAE Population by Age
Age Group | Population | Percentage |
0-14 years | 1.52 Million | 14.94% |
15-24 years | 1.26 Million | 12.36% |
25-54 years | 6.52 Million | 64.15% |
55-64 years | 0.67 Million | 6.59% |
65 years and over | 0.20 Million | 1.96% |
Our research shows that the death rate is extremely low, and the birth rate in the UAE is at a moderate level in 2023.
People are beginning to live longer, and the population size is increasing. This indicates a well-developed healthcare system contributing to longer life expectancy.
The immigrant population (age 25–54 years) is the highest, amounting to 6.52 million people which is significantly higher than other age groups.
UAE Population by Gender
Age Group | Men Population | Women Population |
0-14 years | 0.77 Million | 0.75 Million |
15-24 years | 0.79 Million | 0.47 Million |
25-54 years | 4.77 Million | 1.75 Million |
55-64 years | 0.50 Million | 0.17 Million |
65 years and over | 0.14 Million | 0.06 Million |
With references to the previous statistics on gender split and age, we can analyze gender distribution in the UAE based on different age groups.
Here also we can see that the highest population of both males and females is between the ages of 25 and 54. The male population stands at 4.77 million, and the female population is at 1.75 million, showing a wide margin in gender split.
The older population of 65 years and above shows a much lower rate. The male population stands at 0.14 million, and the female population is at 0.06 million.
This indicates how the margin of difference between the male and female population is not just confined to the working age group but by small margins exists in every category.
UAE Population by Emirates
Location | Population |
Dubai | 3,646,010 |
Sharjah | 1,831,000 |
Abu Dhabi | 1,567,000 |
Ajman | 504,846 |
Ras al-Khaimah | 345,000 |
Fujairah | 256,256 |
Umm Al Quwain | 49,159 |
Due to its popularity as a migration destination for Expats worldwide, Dubai has the biggest population among the seven emirates, at over 3,646,010.
Sharjah, with a population of 1,831,000, is the next largest city. The population of Abu Dhabi is 1,567,000 while that of Ajman is 504,846.
Ras al-Khaimah has 345,000 people while Fujairah has 256,256 people. Umm Al Quwain, home to 49,159 people, is the least populated Emirate.
Emirati Vs Expatriates
Nationality | Population | Percentage |
Emirati | 1.17 Million | 11.48% |
Expat | 9.0 Million | 88.52% |
The availability of job opportunities, lack of income tax, high standard of living, and other attributes make the UAE a prime destination for immigrants.
In the Expat Essential Index, the UAE stands in second place behind Bahrain.
The expat population totals around 88.52%, i.e., 9.0 million, while the nationals only amount to 11.48%, i.e., 1.17 million.
As the citizens of UAE become a minority, in 2023, the UAE cabinet seeks to bring more job opportunities for natives in all economic sectors.
UAE Population 2023 (Urban vs Rural)
Our UAE population data study shows that the UAE has been experiencing urbanization trends for quite some time.
In 2023, the urban population reached 8.91 million, accounting for 87.6% of the total population, a slight increase from 2022.
In contrast, the rural population in 2023 stands at 1.26 million, constituting 12.4% of the total population, a slight decrease from 2022.
This shift towards urbanization may be attributed to an increasing number of people migrating to cities in search of job opportunities and better living conditions.
UAE Population By Year (1980 – 2023)
Year | Population | Year % Change |
2023 | 10.17 Million | 0.89% |
2022 | 10.08 Million | 0.90% |
2021 | 9.99 Million | 1.01% |
2020 | 9.89 Million | 2.17% |
2019 | 9.68 Million | 1.47% |
2018 | 9.54 Million | 0.63% |
2017 | 9.48 Million | 1.28% |
2016 | 9.36 Million | 1.08% |
2015 | 9.26 Million | 8.43% |
2010 | 8.54 Million | 86.46% |
2005 | 4.58 Million | 46.33% |
2000 | 3.13 Million | 29.88% |
1995 | 2.41 Million | 32.42% |
1990 | 1.82 Million | 33.82% |
1985 | 1.36 Million | 34.65% |
1980 | 1.01 Million | 0% |
Dubai Population in 2023
Dubai is the first choice for immigrants considering the growing economy and diverse opportunities. It has a rich culture, natural beauty and is the business hub of the Middle East.
Therefore as mentioned above it is the most populated Emirate in the UAE. As of December 2023, the population of Dubai stands at 3,646,010.
The population density of the city is approximately 762.6 individuals per square meter. Dubai is the second largest Emirate with an area of 4,114 square kilometres.
Being a cosmopolitan city, the city has seen the growth of many religions including Christians, Sikhs and Hindus.
Dubai Population Growth
In 1980 the population of Dubai was around 0.27 million. This increased to 0.68 million in 1995 and 1.3 million in 2005.
In 2015, it crossed the two million mark to reach 2.38 million and by 2018 it again added 1 million to its population. The population growth rate is predicted to be 10.7% annually.
Just like the rest of the emirates, the gender division is skewed here. There are 7,118,367 million males and 3,128,568 million females.
There are several factors for the high population growth rate in Dubai, the most important of them all is the cosmopolitan approach.
Due to this many foreign nationals have settled in the region increasing the expatriate population. In 30 years, the population has grown by millions.
The Dubai Expo 2020 has created almost 2,70,000 additional job opportunities. With the huge influx of workers, Dubai’s population will hit an all-time high in 2030.
Population Forecasts/Predictions
According to reports, the population boom of the UAE is supposed to reach its full peak in 2033 at 10.71 million people.
There is a net increase of 1 person every minute.
Researchers claim that once the peak is reached, the population will then decline very slowly and by the end of the 21st century, the total population will be 9.03 million people.
The growth rate of 1.47% is expected to decrease to 0.68% in 2025.
These same sets of projections state the population of the United Arab Emirates will be 11,054,579 in 2030, 12,207,333 in 2040 and 13,163,548 in 2050.
*Note: These population estimates have utilized the data from World Population Prospects(UN).
The steady growth of the population in the UAE indicates that the economy is well-developed to nourish and sustain the influx of people looking to live here.
With an interesting mix of nationalities, UAE has emerged as a global power with tremendous reach in 2023.
An in-depth analysis of the population of the UAE can help marketers formulate plans, goals and strategies to promote their brand. With more than 24 years of experience in the digital landscape of the Middle East, GMI has crafted the digital presence of some of the best brands in the region. We understand what it takes to tap into your target audience on various digital platforms. We can help ideate and weave a digital strategy that works for your brand. Talk to our digital strategists today and take your brand to the people you want to reach.
Disclaimer: GMI acknowledges that though we try to report accurately, we cannot verify the absolute facts of everything that has been represented on this infographic. The information represented is based on information researched from various sources on the internet. We are not liable for any errors, financial loss, or damages of any kind that may result from the use of, or reliance on, the information herein.
GMI’s Research Team is a panel of knowledgeable experts from various fields such as digital marketing, social media, and web development, all united by a common goal—to educate. We enjoy exploring everything from the latest industry trends and emerging technologies to people and demographics, both in the UAE and beyond. Through our blog posts, we share valuable insights that help businesses and marketers stay informed and prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
