News Desk
MALE’ — The Maldives’ population has reached an estimated 590,079, according to the latest figures released by the Maldives Bureau of Statistics (MBS) in observance of World Population Day.
The data underscores a significant demographic shift, highlighting the integral role of the expatriate workforce in the nation’s socio-economic landscape. Of the total population, 394,054 are Maldivian nationals, while 196,024 are foreign residents.
The statistics reveal a notable gender disparity, particularly within the expatriate community. The total population comprises 374,168 males and 215,911 females.
| Demographic Group | Total | Male | Female |
| Maldivian | 394,054 | 200,162 (51%) | 193,892 (49%) |
| Expatriate | 196,024 | 174,005 (89%) | 22,019 (10%) |
The most striking takeaway from the MBS report is the ratio of residents; effectively, one in every three people living in the Maldives is an expatriate.
Furthermore, the data points to a distinct shift in the labour market. The report highlights that the number of expatriate males in the working-age demographic now exceeds that of Maldivian males. This trend reflects the country’s ongoing reliance on foreign labour to sustain its primary industries, particularly as the demand for manpower in tourism and infrastructure development continues to climb.
As policymakers digest these figures, the data serves as a critical indicator of the country’s rapid growth and the evolving composition of its society, necessitating careful consideration for future social services and labour policy management.
