Jakarta Becomes World’s Most Populous City

According to the UN’s World Urbanisation Prospects 2025 report, Jakarta has overtaken Tokyo as the world’s most populous city, with 42 million residents. Dhaka follows with 37 million, while Tokyo slips to third with 33 million. The shift is due to new UN criteria that provide a more accurate comparison of urban populations. Asia dominates the top 10 megacities, highlighting rapid urbanisation. By 2050, two-thirds of global population growth is expected in cities. The report underscores urbanisation as a key driver for economic growth, social equity and climate action.