The UAE population reached 12.06 million in 2025, marking an annual increase of 770,000 people, or around 7 per cent, compared to 11.3 million in 2024, according to the latest data from the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC).
Of the total UAE population, 7.7 million were males, accounting for 64 per cent, while females numbered 4.35 million, representing the remaining 36 per cent.
The male population increased by 6.7 per cent from 7.23 million in 2024, while the female population grew by 7 per cent from approximately 4 million during the same period.
UAE population growth over the years
The UAE population has grown significantly over the past 25 years, increasing by approximately 280 per cent since 2000, when the country had around 3.17 million residents.
The population reached 6.8 million in 2010, representing an increase of 120 per cent compared to 2000. It continued to grow over the following decade, reaching 9.3 million in 2020, an increase of 33 per cent.
Between 2020 and 2025, the UAE population grew by a further 29 per cent, crossing the 12 million mark by the end of 2025.
Why is the UAE population growing?
The UAE’s growing population reflects its appeal as a destination for people seeking employment, business opportunities and investment.
The country has a strong and open economy, an attractive business environment and a steady flow of foreign direct investment (FDI). The increasing presence of international companies has also contributed to its appeal among professionals, entrepreneurs and investors from around the world.
The UAE also offers advanced infrastructure, a rapidly developing technology sector, artificial intelligence capabilities and a modern digital economy.
Its international competitiveness in these areas, combined with employment and business opportunities, continues to make the country an attractive destination for people from different parts of the world.
How does the UAE define its population?
According to the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre, the population register refers to the total number of living individuals within the UAE’s borders at a specific point in time.
It also includes their demographic characteristics, based on information collected through the country’s official administrative records.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
