Saudi Arabia Cities by Population 2025

Saudi Arabia, the largest country in the Middle East, has experienced significant population growth over the decades. As of 2025, its population is estimated to be 34,566,328, with major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina leading in urban density. This blog provides a detailed overview of Saudi Arabia’s cities by population in 2025, along with a historical analysis of the country’s population growth, migration trends, fertility rates, and urbanization.

Saudi Arabia’s Most Populated Cities in 2025

Saudi Arabia is home to many growing urban centers. Below is a table of the most populated cities in Saudi Arabia in 2025:

City	Estimated Population (2025)
Riyadh	7,953,000
Jeddah	5,022,000
Mecca	2,219,000
Medina	1,625,000
Dammam	1,376,000
Hufuf-Mubarraz	897,000
Buraydah	741,000
Taif	726,000
Jubail	712,000
Tabuk	707,000

1. Riyadh – The Capital and Largest City

Riyadh is the most populous city in Saudi Arabia with an estimated 7.95 million people in 2025. As the capital, it serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the nation. The city’s growth is fueled by job opportunities, migration, and urban development.

2. Jeddah – The Commercial Hub

Jeddah, with a population of 5.02 million, is the second-largest city and Saudi Arabia’s primary commercial center. It is home to King Abdulaziz Port, one of the busiest ports in the region, and serves as a gateway for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.

3. Mecca – The Holiest City in Islam

Mecca has an estimated 2.21 million residents in 2025. Millions of Muslims visit this city annually for Hajj and Umrah, which significantly boosts its population during pilgrimage seasons.

4. Medina – The Second Holiest City

Medina’s population is expected to reach 1.62 million in 2025. It is known for Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, the Prophet Muhammad’s mosque, attracting millions of visitors every year.

5. Dammam – The Industrial and Oil Hub

Dammam, with 1.37 million residents, is a major industrial and petroleum city located in the Eastern Province. It has a thriving economy due to its oil production and trade links.

Saudi Arabia’s Population Growth (1955 – 2025)

Saudi Arabia’s population has grown rapidly over the decades, fueled by economic expansion, urbanization, and migration. Below is a historical overview of Saudi Arabia’s population growth:

Year	Population	Yearly % Change	Yearly Growth
2025	34,566,328	1.78%	603,571
2024	33,962,757	2.10%	698,465
2023	33,264,292	3.38%	1,088,940
2022	32,175,352	2.70%	846,977
2020	30,991,207	1.70%	518,396
2015	29,974,938	3.57%	963,562
2010	25,157,128	4.12%	919,448
2005	20,559,890	4.91%	876,434
2000	16,177,722	4.01%	577,695
1990	10,640,691	5.47%	497,782
1980	6,047,997	5.83%	298,342
1970	3,562,470	4.00%	126,740
1960	2,435,403	3.69%	80,690

Key Observations from Historical Population Growth

Rapid Growth in the 1980s-2000s: Saudi Arabia’s population doubled between 1980 and 2000, fueled by oil wealth, economic expansion, and urbanization.
Slower Growth After 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic and economic changes led to a lower growth rate of 1.7% in 2020, with a decrease in migrant labor.
Future Trends: The growth rate has slowed to 1.78% in 2025, indicating stabilization due to urban planning and economic diversification.

Factors Influencing Saudi Arabia’s Population Growth

1. Migration and Expatriate Workforce

Saudi Arabia is home to millions of expatriates working in various industries. In 2025, the net migration is estimated at 119,738 people. The country relies on foreign workers, especially in construction, oil, hospitality, and domestic services.

2. Fertility Rate and Birth Rate

The fertility rate in Saudi Arabia has decreased over the years:

1980: 7.15 children per woman
2000: 4.21 children per woman
2025: 2.29 children per woman

This decline is due to modernization, improved healthcare, women’s education, and workforce participation.

3. Urbanization and Population Density

Saudi Arabia is becoming increasingly urbanized:

92.1% of the population lives in cities in 2025.
Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam are the largest urban centers.
Population density is 16 people per square kilometer, much lower than many other countries due to its vast deserts.

Urban Development and Future Projections

1. Vision 2030 and Smart Cities

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 aims to:

Reduce dependence on oil.
Develop smart cities like NEOM with advanced technology and sustainability.
Improve housing and infrastructure in major cities.

2. Economic Diversification

The government is investing in:

Tourism (Red Sea Project, Diriyah Gate)
Technology (AI and Smart Cities)
Green Energy (Renewable Energy Projects)

These initiatives will attract more foreign investment, businesses, and workers, influencing future population trends.

Final Words:

Saudi Arabia’s population in 2025 is projected to be 34.56 million, with Riyadh, Jeddah, and Mecca being the largest cities. The country has experienced rapid population growth, fueled by urbanization, migration, and economic development. However, trends such as a declining fertility rate, economic diversification, and urban expansion will shape its demographic future.

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to Vision 2030, smart cities, and sustainable development will continue to impact population growth and distribution in the coming decades.