Jakarta has officially overtaken Tokyo as the world’s most populous metropolitan area, according to 2025 UN estimates and data from the World Cities Culture Forum. This shift marks a new era for the Southeast Asian capital, which now holds the title of the world’s largest mega-city.
The Scale of a Global Giant
While the city of Jakarta itself has a population of around 10.5 million, the new title refers to the broader Greater Jakarta region, known as Jabodetabek. This massive urban expanse is now home to around 42 million people.
The growth of Jakarta stands in stark contrast to other global hubs. Tokyo’s metropolitan population has fallen to around 33 million, while Istanbul stands at roughly 16 million and London at about 9.7 million.
Drivers of Rapid Urbanization
Jakarta serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of Indonesia, generating an estimated 17% to 20% of the country’s total GDP. This economic magnetism draws millions of people from across Indonesia’s 17,000-plus islands in search of employment in services, finance, and manufacturing.
This migration has caused the city to physically merge with surrounding areas, including Bekasi, Tangerang, Depok, and Bogor. The result is a continuous urban area that stretches across western Java.
Environmental and Infrastructure Crisis
The scale of the city has created severe systemic challenges. Jakarta is widely described as one of the fastest-sinking cities globally because piped water systems do not fully serve the population, leading to heavy groundwater extraction.
Infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with the population boom. Pollution affects many of the city’s 13 rivers, as only a limited proportion of the metropolitan area is connected to a formal sewage system.
Daily life is further hampered by traffic congestion. The city regularly ranks among the most congested in the world, with delays that cost the economy billions in lost productivity.
A Strategic Shift to Nusantara
In response to environmental concerns and overcrowding, Indonesia is moving its official capital to Nusantara, a purpose-built city in East Kalimantan on the island of Borneo.
While government offices are set to relocate, Jakarta is expected to remain the primary business and financial center for the country. Looking forward, some projections suggest the population of Greater Jakarta could reach between 45 and 50 million by 2050 if current trends continue.
Culture and Tourism in the Mega-City
Despite these pressures, Jakarta remains a major tourist destination. The 132-metre-tall National Monument, or Monas, stands in Merdeka Square as a commemoration of Indonesian independence.
The city’s skyline is defined by a mix of faith and history, featuring the neo-Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and the Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia.
Visitors also frequent Kota Tua, or Ancient Town, to spot colonial Dutch buildings and cobbled streets. The city is further known for its street food, including sate ayam and gado-gado, and massive retail hubs like Grand Indonesia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jabodetabek?
Jabodetabek is the wider Greater Jakarta region, which is the urban area that has now become the world’s most populous metropolitan area.
Why is Jakarta sinking so quickly?
The city is sinking, particularly in North Jakarta, largely due to excessive groundwater extraction because piped water systems do not fully serve the population.
Will Jakarta cease to be important after the capital moves?
No; while government offices will move to the new city of Nusantara, Jakarta is expected to remain Indonesia’s main business and financial centre.
Do you think moving a capital city is an effective solution for managing the growth of a mega-city?
