Jakarta Overtakes Tokyo as the World’s Most Populous City

According to a recent United Nations report, Jakarta, Indonesia, has surpassed Tokyo, Japan, to become the world's most populous city, with nearly 42 million residents. This marks a significant shift in global urban demographics, as Tokyo had held the title for decades. The report indicates that Tokyo now ranks third, with a population of approximately 33.4 million, while Dhaka, Bangladesh, is in second place with nearly 37 million residents and is projected to become the largest city by 2050.

This city has become the world’s largest, UN report saysNewserDhaka now the world’s second-largest city by population, behind Jakarta: UNSky NewsABC News AustraliaJOE.co.ukNewsweek

The UN's "World Urbanization Prospects 2025" report highlights a dramatic increase in megacities—urban areas with populations exceeding 10 million. The number of megacities has quadrupled from eight in 1975 to 33 in 2025, predominantly located in Asia. This urbanization trend reflects a broader global shift, with 45% of the world’s 8.2 billion people now living in cities, compared to just 20% in 1950.

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The report forecasts that Dhaka's population will soar to over 52 million by 2050, potentially making it the largest city globally. Meanwhile, Tokyo is expected to continue its decline in rankings, projected to fall to seventh place by 2050, overtaken by cities such as New Delhi and Shanghai. The report also notes that London, Istanbul, and Moscow will remain the only European megacities, with London expected to grow by nearly 1.5 million residents, securing its position as the 33rd largest city in the world.

JOE.co.ukSky NewsThis city has become the world’s largest, UN report saysDhaka now the world’s second-largest city by population, behind Jakarta: UNNewserNewsweekABC News Australia

Experts have raised concerns about the implications of rapid urbanization, particularly in Jakarta, where challenges such as extreme traffic congestion, pollution, and flooding are prevalent. Elisa Sutanudjaja, director of the Jakarta-based Rujak Centre for Urban Studies, emphasized the need for better coordination among local governments to manage these issues effectively. Additionally, the Indonesian government’s plan to relocate the capital to Borneo, named Nusantara, is behind schedule and struggling to attract investment.

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Li Junhua, head of the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, stated, “Urbanization is a defining force of our time. When managed inclusively and strategically, it can unlock transformative pathways for climate action, economic growth, and social equity.” He underscored the importance of integrated national policies to achieve balanced territorial development.

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While the UN report provides a comprehensive overview of urbanization trends, discrepancies exist regarding the exact population figures of these megacities. For instance, estimates for Dhaka's population vary slightly across different sources, with figures ranging from 36 million to 37 million. Additionally, the report does not detail the specific methodologies used to project future populations.

Newsweek

• “Jakarta is currently the largest city globally, with almost 42 million residents.” — UN Report

This city has become the world’s largest, UN report says

• “urbanisation is a defining force of our time” — Li Junhua, UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs

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This shift in urban population dynamics underscores the ongoing transformation of global cities and the need for strategic planning to address the challenges that accompany such rapid growth.

Newsweek