Population in United Arab Emirates

Records the number of inhabitants of the United Arab Emirates and how it changes over time. It is a structural indicator underpinning many economic and social ratios (GDP per capita, density, per-head rates). It is compiled by the country's federal statistical authorities.

It is derived from censuses and administrative registers, updated with births, deaths and net migration. In the UAE the very high share of foreign residents means net migration, rather than natural increase, is the main driver of population; an annual reference figure is provided.

Demographic trends shape potential growth, the labour market, consumption and the planning of infrastructure and services. In an economy so reliant on foreign labour, population shifts reflect the country's appeal and the pulse of activity tied to oil, trade and tourism.

It is a low-frequency figure and intercensal estimates are subject to revision. The large weight of the floating and expatriate population makes precise counting difficult, and changes can be abrupt depending on labour-market conditions.