GCC States Witness Shifting Demographics and Urban Growth Trends

UAE, 2 January, 2025 : The GCC countries are experiencing significant population growth, but with a skewed demographic structure, as expatriates now make up a substantial portion of the population. According to the GCC Statistical Centre, the total population in July 2022 reached 57.3 million, representing 0.7% of the global population. Over the past three years, the population has increased by 1.3 million people. Expatriates now account for up to 90% of the population in some GCC countries, a sharp contrast to previous decades when citizens made up the majority.

This population shift is also reflected in urban growth projections, with 90% of the GCC population expected to live in cities by 2050. To accommodate this growth, GCC countries are investing in housing development and urban planning, aiming to balance the demographic disparity by creating more opportunities for local citizens in various economic sectors. The focus is on reducing reliance on expatriate workers and increasing the participation of Gulf nationals.

As part of a new approach to urban development, Gulf governments are investing billions in integrated community development, offering economic opportunities while also considering the cultural needs of local populations. This shift is expected to transform urban planning, creating vibrant cities with sustainable, community-driven growth. The demand for housing, infrastructure, and development is expected to grow as the population increases by 30%, and the new model emphasizes local workforce integration, small business development, and long-term economic contributions.