Kuwait's Population Nears 5 Million, Expatriates Make Up 68.6%

According to the latest figures released by the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI), Kuwait’s total population at the end of 2024 reached approximately 4,987,826. The data reveals a continued demographic pattern where expatriates significantly outnumber Kuwaiti nationals.

Out of the total population:

• Kuwaiti citizens: 1,567,983 (approx. 31.4%)
• Non-Kuwaitis: 3,419,843 (approx. 68.6%)

These numbers confirm Kuwait’s status as a country with a predominantly expatriate workforce and population base.

Gender Distribution: More Kuwaiti Women Than Men

Among Kuwaiti nationals, women slightly outnumber men, with:

• Kuwaiti women: 794,923 (51%)
• Kuwaiti men: 773,060 (49%)

However, on a national scale across all demographics:

• Men represent 61%
• Women represent 39%

Major Expat Communities in Kuwait

Indian Community: Largest Expat Group

The Indian community continues to be the largest expatriate group in Kuwait, reaching 1,007,961 individuals by the end of 2024. This reflects a 0.7% increase from 1,000,726 in 2023.

Indians make up 21% of the total population and they account for 29% of all expatriates.

Egyptian Community: Second Largest Expat Group

The Egyptian population in Kuwait grew by 2%, from 644,042 in 2023 to 657,280 in 2024.

Egyptians now form 13% of the total population and represent 19% of the expatriate demographic.

Together, Indians and Egyptians comprise 34% of Kuwait’s total population and 48% of its non-Kuwaiti residents.

Employment Trends: Distinct Roles by Nationality

Kuwaiti Citizens in Government Roles

Kuwaitis are predominantly employed in:

• Government executive positions
• Military and police forces
• Clerical and administrative jobs
• Education roles (especially Arabic and religious studies)

Expatriates in Labor and Service Sectors

Non-Kuwaitis are most commonly found in:

• Domestic work (housemaids, drivers)
• Retail and market jobs
• Construction and cleaning roles
• Food service and hospitality sectors

Shaping Kuwait’s Socioeconomic Fabric

The demographic composition of Kuwait plays a significant role in shaping both its social and economic framework. With expatriates comprising nearly 70% of the population, and specific nationalities forming large, influential communities, Kuwait’s economy remains highly dependent on foreign workers.