Saudi Arabia's population by gender and nationality 2018
The largest population group in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia consisted of 10.6 million male nationals and about 10.2 million female Saudi nationals in 2018. Female foreigners numbered an estimated four million - less than half of the number of male foreigners dwelling in Saudi Arabia. According to estimates, the total population of Saudi Arabia during this time period was 33.2 million people.
Regional context
Though Saudi Arabia, with a landmass of 2.15 million square kilometers, is the largest Middle Eastern country, population wise it in the midfield. This results in a low population density in Saudi Arabia of only 15.3 inhabitants per square kilometer. Saudi Arabia has a unique position within the Gulf Cooperation Council countries as approximately two thirds of the population are Saudi Arabian nationals – unlike the other countries in the subregion were the citizens are the minority of the population.
Population development
The population of Saudi Arabia grew between 2011 and 2017 by 3.1 percent. This is reflected in Saudi Arabia’s relatively young population with a median age of 29.8 years. The average life expectancy in Saudi Arabia is increasing as well, which indicates social and economic improvement within the country.
Regional context
Though Saudi Arabia, with a landmass of 2.15 million square kilometers, is the largest Middle Eastern country, population wise it in the midfield. This results in a low population density in Saudi Arabia of only 15.3 inhabitants per square kilometer. Saudi Arabia has a unique position within the Gulf Cooperation Council countries as approximately two thirds of the population are Saudi Arabian nationals – unlike the other countries in the subregion were the citizens are the minority of the population.
Population development
The population of Saudi Arabia grew between 2011 and 2017 by 3.1 percent. This is reflected in Saudi Arabia’s relatively young population with a median age of 29.8 years. The average life expectancy in Saudi Arabia is increasing as well, which indicates social and economic improvement within the country.
