Urbanization is a pillar of modernity, anchoring the worldwide economy with a share exceeding 80% of world GDP and constituting the important driving force of innovation. According to the World Bank, by 2050, an estimated 70% of the world’s population will live in urban areas. While cities drive the world’s economy, urbanization also affects infrastructure and the environment.
Asia has seen a remarkable increase in urbanization, but who tops the rankings of cities within the region?
Based on a report by Insider Monkey, listed below are the five most urbanized countries in Asia:
1. Singapore
Urban population: 100%
Singapore is characterised by a high level of urbanization – 5.61 million people live in an area of 719 km², which supplies a population density of seven,800 people/km². Despite challenges comparable to density and environmental issues, Singapore has managed urbanization well through integrated planning and dynamic management.
Initiatives comparable to the Singapore Technical Deep Dive, a collaboration between the World Bank and the Government of Singapore’s Asia Center for Residential Cities and Infrastructure, help share global experiences on urbanization and supply perspectives for countries facing similar challenges.
2. Kuwait
Urban population: 100%
Kuwait, a small but wealthy country within the Middle East, has undergone significant urbanization. Its capital, Kuwait, has grow to be a focus for urban development, attracting a good portion of the population and resulting in rapid infrastructure development. Major corporations comparable to Alshaya Group and Mabanee Company are involved in urbanization projects, including the event of The Avenues Mall with over 1,400 stores.
3. SRA Macau, China
Urban population: 100%
Urbanization in Macau, SAR, has been rapid and exceptional resulting from its small area of only 32.8 km2 and dense population of roughly 700,000 people. Since 1999, when Portuguese rule ended and the territory was handed over to China, Macau’s economy has been dominated by gambling and tourism and has experienced rapid economic growth. However, this growth has also led to environmental degradation, traffic congestion and social problems, including gambling addiction.
4. Hong Kong
Urban population: 100%
Hong Kong, a densely populated urban area, had a population of seven.413 million on the 2021 census, a slight increase from 7.337 million in 2016. This makes it the second most densely populated urban area on the planet, with over a million inhabitants. Despite its density, Hong Kong has achieved high-income status since 1990, even exceeding the GDP per capita of the UK.
Kowloon, on the opposite side of the harbour, has a population density of 47,600 people per square kilometer, although its population has declined barely since 2016. Meanwhile, the New Territories have seen significant population growth in residential construction, which has outperformed Kowloon since 1991 relative to population. Hong Kong can also be often known as some of the progressive cities in Asia.
5. Qatar
Urban population: 99%
In recent many years, Qatar has transformed from a nomadic society to urban centers comparable to rapidly developing Doha, characterised by modern infrastructure and a growing population. Factors comparable to industrialization, foreign investment and economic diversification policies are driving the country’s urbanization.
