After the first quarter of 2025, data shows that the population of residents living in Dubai grew to 3.9 million, with experts suggesting that the 4 million mark will be surpassed by the third quarter or at the end of the year.
Population statistics recently released by the Dubai Statistics Center shows that from the period of January to March 2025, the total population of Dubai increased by 51,295 residents. This indicates the status of the UAE as the preferred destination for international investors, wealthy individuals, and professionals.
The data also shows that in 2024, Dubai’s population grew by more than 169,000 residents, reaching a total of 3.825 million people. This marked the highest growth rate seen in recent years and signals the continued popularity of the UAE.
The growth of Dubai’s population has also been noted as a direct driver to other booming economic sectors including UAE real estate, the tourism industry, food industries, retail shopping, and the hospitality segment.
Experts suggest that this will help create sustainable non-oil economic growth. The Global Investment Outlook 2025 report noted that the growth of the working-age population in Dubai will be a key driver to overall UAE growth.
The steady arrival of new residents also boosts local consumption and keeps the vibrant labour market moving. Long-term resident visas, world-class infrastructure, and high salaries that are not taxed, continue to appeal to white-collar workers.
The same report also noted that Dubai’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) had increased by 3.1% in 2024 compared to 2023. GDP increased to AED 339 billion in 2024, up from AED 329 billion in 2023. This coincided with a recent surge in global high-net-worth individuals and millionaires moving to Dubai, seeking financial as well as lifestyle benefits.
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