Sharjah’s Population Surges to 2.13 Million in Latest Census
The Sharjah Census 2025 has revealed a significant demographic shift, with the emirate’s population climbing to 2.13 million—a 51% increase over the last ten years. According to the data, 89% of the residents are non-UAE citizens, while the Emirati community accounts for 11%, totaling 234,431 individuals. The majority of the population resides in Sharjah city, which remains the primary urban hub, followed by smaller enclaves like Khorfakkan and Kalba. Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development, emphasized that these figures are essential for strategic planning, noting that the emirate is transitioning toward an advanced, AI-driven data system to better anticipate the needs of its growing population by 2030.
Beyond the raw population growth, the census highlights notable socio-economic progress within the Emirati community. Most significantly, employment of nationals in the private sector has skyrocketed by 178%, and illiteracy rates have dropped by 18%. The findings also point toward a more modern, sustainable future, with 71% of homes now featuring integrated safety systems and nearly 20% of residential units adopting alternative energy sources. By focusing on these indicators, authorities aim to transform statistical data into a tool that improves overall quality of life, ensuring that the development of the emirate remains both sustainable and human-centric.