KUWAIT CITY, Feb 3: Kuwait's population continues to grow at a remarkable pace, approaching the 5 million mark. According to the annual World Population Review 2025 report, Kuwait’s population is growing by one person every 5 minutes. The report, which assesses the demographic changes of 180 countries, reveals that Kuwait’s population growth rate is 2.12 percent, ranking the country 52nd globally.

Population growth and trends

The World Population Review states that for every 10 minutes, a new baby is born in Kuwait, while a death occurs every 57 minutes. Additionally, a new arrival (immigrant) occurs approximately every 9 minutes, leading to a net population increase of one person every 5.22 minutes. This population surge is primarily driven by immigration, with expatriates making up 69 percent of Kuwait's total population as of the end of 2024. This includes 1.1 million Arab expatriates, 1.4 million from Asian countries, and others from various regions.

Demographic breakdown and challenges

The country’s population share in the global context is 0.06 percent, while it ranks 128th in terms of population size. Kuwait is also ranked 157th in terms of land area, covering 17,818 square kilometers. Its population density stands at 237 people per square kilometer, placing it 50th globally.

Among Kuwaiti citizens, 25.32 percent are under the age of 15, and 52.32 percent are aged between 25 and 54. The average life expectancy is 78.2 years, with low maternal and neonatal mortality rates. However, the report raises concerns about the future, projecting a gradual decline in the number of young people as the fertility rate drops. The fertility rate in 2024 was 2.48 children per woman, with expectations that it will fall to 2.1 by 2035.

The expatriate issue

Historically, Kuwait has been a hub for immigration, particularly due to its oil wealth and relatively high living standards. In 2007, Kuwait recorded the third-highest net immigration rate in the world, with 16.01 percent of its total population being immigrants. However, the high percentage of non-citizens has been considered a demographic challenge, and the government has previously announced plans to reduce this proportion.

Labor Market and Economic ImpactAs of 2024, the workforce in Kuwait consists of 504,878 Kuwaiti citizens and 2,560,252 non-Kuwaitis. The majority of Kuwaitis (78 percent) work in the government sector, while a staggering 96 percent of non-Kuwaitis are employed in the private sector. The unemployment rate is notably higher among Kuwaitis, at 10 percent compared to just 0.94 percent among non-Kuwaitis.

Social and Economic StatisticsThe report provides a detailed overview of various social and economic factors. The average Kuwaiti family has 7 members, while non-Kuwaiti families typically have 2 members. The birth rate is notably higher among Kuwaitis (21 per thousand people) compared to non-Kuwaitis (4 per thousand). Similarly, the death rate is higher among Kuwaitis (2.4 percent) than among non-Kuwaitis (0.94 percent).

Population projections and future outlook

The report highlights that Kuwait's demographic composition will continue to evolve, with an increasingly aging population and a decreasing youth population. Despite these challenges, the country remains a central figure in the Middle East, with its oil wealth continuing to shape its population dynamics and economy.

As Kuwait approaches the 5 million mark, the government and policymakers face significant decisions regarding population growth, immigration, and the labor market to ensure the sustainable development of the nation.

Key statistics from the 2025 report:

Kuwait’s population ranking: 128th globally

Population growth rate: 2.12% (52nd globally)

Population density: 237 people per square kilometer (50th globally)

Non-Kuwaitis: 69% of the population

Kuwaitis under 15 years: 25.32%

Kuwaiti life expectancy: 78.2 years

Fertility Rate: 2.48 children per woman

Labor force participation:

504,878 Kuwaitis

2,560,252 non-Kuwaitis

This report provides a detailed snapshot of Kuwait’s rapidly evolving demographics, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges that come with such growth.