Dubai’s population has reached a historic four million as of Thursday, according to the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment.
The population has doubled over 14 years, rising from two million in 2011.
Data reveals Dubai’s population was 187,187 in 1975, reached one million in 2002, two million in 2011, and three million in 2018.
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Dubai’s population grew from two to three million in seven years and from three to four million in another seven. If this trend continues, it may hit five million by 2032 and six million by 2039, potentially exceeding the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan’s estimation of 5.8 million.
The slowest growth occurred in 2021 due to Covid-19, when layoffs were prevalent and many returned home. Since then, Dubai has regained its status as a hub for business, attracting professionals and investors with high returns, job opportunities, a premium lifestyle, and safety.
Similarly, the UAE’s population has also grown significantly, reaching a record 11.39 million, as per Worldometer.
Impact of Rising Population
The growing population will directly and indirectly affect residents through increased demand for housing, education, public transport, healthcare, infrastructure, jobs, and visas.
According to Vijay Valecha, Century Financial’s chief investment officer, “An expanding population boosts demand for goods and services, offering more options across sectors. This demand can be inflationary due to constant consumer needs.”
Valecha notes that consumers may explore more options, including buy-now-pay-later and digital services for food and groceries. “Traffic congestion may push residents to relocate closer to work,” he added.
He highlighted that foreign non-residents buying property might encourage relatives and friends to explore Dubai’s culture. Relaxed visa laws further incentivize foreign buyers.
Dubai’s diverse expatriate community relies on public transport, including metro, buses, and taxis. The increasing population demands expanded transport infrastructure.
“Car purchases have risen, but changes are expected with new Dubai Metro Blue Line projects,” he predicted.
Dubai Population Growth Since 1975
Source: Dubai Statistics Centre
