A guide to the population of the UAE
There is no doubt that the UAE has come a long way and welcomed people from around the globe over the past few decades. The rapid economic development, innovation and growth in the country has attracted people from across the world. Today, the UAE is a highly cosmopolitan hub that is home to locals as well as expats from around the world, thanks to its remarkable progress in technology, trade and tourism. Let’s take a closer look at the UAE population statistics to get a better understanding of its people and residents.
Disclaimer: Since the last official census conducted by the UAE government was in 2005, the numbers mentioned in the post are mostly estimates sourced from reliable organisations, such as World Bank and Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority.
ABOUT POPULATION STATISTICS
There are various local and international organisations that monitor the population and demographics of the UAE. For instance, the government of the UAE carried out the last census in 2005 to gain a comprehensive understanding of the people calling the country home. The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority of the UAE also regularly estimates the population based on various factors, such as demographics, education, marital and employment characteristics.
According to the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, the estimated population of the UAE was 9.28 million in 2020, whereas the World Bank shows an estimate of 9.65 million. Hence, the current population of the UAE, across the seven Emirates is expected to be within or close to that range.
Let’s break down the demographics of the United Arab Emirates, according to some key factors.
UAE POPULATION STATISTICS BY EMIRATE
Let’s have a look at the UAE population statistics, broken down by emirate. The data is taken from the estimated population of each emirate in the UAE as projected by the World Bank.
Emirate | Population |
|---|---|
Emirate Dubai | Population 3.79 Million |
Emirate Abu Dhabi | Estimated Population 3.7 Million |
Emirate Sharjah | Estimated Population 1.8 Million |
Emirate Ajman | Estimated Population 0.54 Million |
Emirate Ras Al Khaimah | Estimated Population 0.4 Million |
Emirate Fujairah | Estimated Population 0.31 Million |
Emirate Umm Al Quwain | Estimated Population 0.08 Million |
According to the data from the Dubai Statistics Center, the population of Dubai is estimated to be 3.79 million, making it the most populated emirate in the UAE. The multicultural nature of Dubai has made it a sought-after destination for expats from around the globe.
Following close behind is the capital city where the Abu Dhabi population is estimated to be 3.7 million according to Statistics Centre Abu Dhabi.
Sharjah’s population is almost 1.8 million. Together, Abu Dhabi and Dubai make up around two thirds of the UAE’s population. The least populated emirate is Umm Al Quwain, with 0.08 million residents.
Comparing these figures to the population estimates Dubai and Abu Dhabi have seen the most rapid growth.
UAE POPULATION STATISTICS BY GENDER
The UAE population demographics according to gender for 2020 show that the male population is 6.4 million whereas the female population was reported at 2.8 million. Men make up nearly 70% of the current population of the UAE, while women make up the other 30%.
UAE POPULATION STATISTICS BY NATIONALITY
The United Arab Emirates has seen a massive increase in the diversity of its population in the past two decades, due to the growth of different economic sectors and the influx of workers from various backgrounds. This has resulted in a population increase of more than 50% since the last official census.
Let’s take a look at the UAE population statistics by nationality:
Nationality | Population |
|---|---|
Nationality India | Population 3.5 million |
Nationality Pakistan | Population 2.91 million |
Nationality Bangladesh | Population 0.92 million |
Nationality Philippines | Population 0.7 million |
Nationality Iran | Population 0.59 million |
Nationality Egypt | Population 0.53 million |
Nationality Nepal | Population 0.39 million |
Nationality Sri Lanka | Population 0.39 million |
Nationality China | Population 0.27 million |
Nationality Others | Population 2.7 million |
The Indian population in the UAE is the highest at 37% while Pakistanis follow with 16%. Whereas, the Emirati population in the UAE stands at 11%. A look at the UAE population by nationality showcases what a diverse country it is.
FAQS ABOUT THE UAE POPULATION 2024
WHICH NATIONALITY MAKES UP THE LARGEST GROUP OF IMMIGRANTS TO THE UAE?
As discussed, Indian expats are the largest group in terms of nationality, making more than 37% of the total population.
WHAT TYPE OF VISAS CAN ONE APPLY FOR TO STAY IN THE UAE LONG TERM?
There are multiple types of UAE visas one could apply for. There is a UAE real estate investor visa, for people willing to bring FDI in the country. Similarly, there is the Dubai freelancer visa. Sponsored work visas are another option. Those already residing in the country can also take advantage of the UAE family sponsorship visa. Due to the opening of all these visas, the total population of the UAE is likely to rise.
CAN EXPATS APPLY FOR UAE NATIONALITY?
No, expats can obtain UAE citizenship only by nomination from the Rulers’ and Crown Princes’ Courts, Offices of the Executive Councils and the UAE Cabinet.
And with this, we wrap up our blog. The government of the UAE is constantly undertaking initiatives so that the infrastructure of the country is ready for the intake of businessmen and professionals. The aim is to provide opportunities for everyone to grow together.
Sources for statistics and estimates: World Bank, Department of Census and Statistics of the United Nations, Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, World Population Review, Global Media Insights
