Countries with the lowest female populations relative to males are largely those with significant male labor immigration, especially in the Gulf region.
These nations have a skewed gender ratio, primarily due to the influx of male migrant workers in industries such as construction and services.
In contrast, countries like Russia, Latvia, and Japan have more women than men due to factors such as aging populations, higher male mortality rates, and a longer life expectancy for females.
However, in countries like Qatar, the female population is notably lower than the male population due to the high number of male migrant workers. Here are five countries with the lowest female population:
1. Qatar
Qatar has one of the most extreme gender imbalances, with approximately 266 males for every 100 females. This is largely due to the vast number of male migrant workers, particularly from countries like India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and the Philippines, who come to Qatar for employment, leaving the female population relatively small.
2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE also has a significant gender imbalance, with about 228 males per 100 females. The influx of male workers, especially in construction, services, and hospitality, has contributed to a reduced female population in the country.
3. Bahrain
Bahrain has a gender imbalance of around 163.8 males for every 100 females, largely due to the migration of male laborers from countries such as India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. This heavy reliance on foreign workers has skewed the gender ratio in favor of men.
4. Oman
In Oman, the male population exceeds the female population by about 157 males for every 100 females. This imbalance is driven by the migration of male workers seeking jobs in sectors like construction, oil, and services.
5. Kuwait
Kuwait experiences a similar gender imbalance, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 156.1 males for every 100 females. The influx of male migrant workers in search of job opportunities is a key factor contributing to this disparity.