Dubai’s population set to cross 4 million, doubling in less than 15 years

The data is based on daily and monthly estimates of the number of people permanently residing in Dubai within the geographic borders of the emirate, including both Emiratis and Non-Emiratis.

The estimate of the real-time change in population through the population clock is based on several resources, including surveys, censuses, and databases of the relevant governmental bodies as well as the international methodologies accredited in this field, the DSC noted.

How Dubai’s population has changed

Not many places around the world have seen a dramatic shift in population like Dubai in recent years. According to The Nation, Dubai will hit the  four million population landmark less than 15 years after it crossed the two million mark.

Among the four million residents of Dubai are around 81,200 millionaires. (Photo: Unsplash)

Dubai’s population reached two million on December 24, 2011, and since then, thanks to immigration by high-net-worth individuals, skilled professionals and blue-collar workers from around the world, it has doubled.

In 2024, the emirate’s population grew by over 169,000 to 3.825 million. It was the fastest increase in the annual population rate since 2018.

Home to 81,200 millionaires

Among the four million residents of Dubai are around 81,200 millionaires, 237 centi-millionaires and 20 billionaires, according to the 2025 World’s Wealthiest Cities Report by Henley & Partners.

Only around 12 per cent of the Dubai population are Emirati citizens, while 88 per cent are expats, with Indians being the biggest ethnic group (around 25-30 per cent).

In recent years, Dubai has also seen a sizable increase in immigrants from the UK, Russia, South-East Asia and Africa.

What attracts people to Dubai

Several factors, including its zero-income tax policy, business-friendly environment, and world-class infrastructure, high levels of safety, and a culture of tolerance, have made Dubai an attractive destination for people from around the world to migrate.

Dubai has also transitioned itself into a business, tech, cultural, and sporting hub, inviting talent looking for opportunity from around the globe.