Kuwait’s Population Declines Slightly in Early 2025 as Citizen Numbers Rise

Kuwait’s population experienced a slight decline at the beginning of 2025, falling by 0.65% to reach 4,881,254, compared to 4,913,271 in 2024, according to a report published by Al Qabas, an Arabic-language newspaper. Despite the overall drop, the number of Kuwaiti citizens continued to rise, increasing by 1.32% to 1,566,168, up from 1,545,781 the previous year. As a result, the proportion of Kuwaiti nationals within the total population grew from 31.46% to 32.09%, reflecting a modest but significant demographic shift.

Meanwhile, the number of non-Kuwaitis declined by 1.56%, decreasing from 3,367,490 in 2024 to 3,315,086 in 2025. Although non-citizens still make up about 68% of the total population, the figures indicate a gradual rebalancing of the population structure. The report attributes this decline to several factors, including changes in government policy regarding foreign labor, fluctuations in the regional job market, and broader economic transformations affecting the Gulf region.

The gender distribution of the population also saw slight adjustments. The number of males dropped by 1.1%, reaching 2,987,971, and they now constitute 61% of the population. In contrast, the number of females increased marginally by 0.06% to 1,893,283, accounting for 39%. This gender imbalance continues to reflect Kuwait’s reliance on a predominantly male expatriate workforce. However, among Kuwaiti citizens specifically, the gender ratio remains nearly equal, highlighting a demographic divide between citizens and non-citizens.

According to the statistical bulletin, the steady growth in the Kuwaiti citizen population is supported by favorable national policies and a young, high-fertility demographic. Government initiatives that prioritize citizens in areas such as employment, education, and housing are contributing to this trend. These demographic shifts are expected to play a significant role in shaping future public planning, particularly in the development of social services, educational systems, and healthcare infrastructure. 

In sum, while Kuwait's total population is experiencing a slight contraction, the rising share of citizens points to a strategic rebalancing. This trend underscores the government’s efforts to enhance national identity and self-reliance, while navigating the complexities of regional labor markets and economic change.