Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, has seen a significant population surge, climbing 32 spots to become the world’s most populous city, now home to over 40 million residents. This rise to the top ranking was revealed in a recent report by the United Nations, where Jakarta surpassed Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, and Tokyo, Japan, to claim the leading position with nearly 42 million inhabitants in 2025. Notably, most of the top ten cities with the largest populations are situated in Asia, with Cairo, the capital of Egypt, being the sole exception at seventh place.
Moreover, the report highlights that more than half of the world’s 33 megacities, defined as cities with 10 million or more residents, are located in Asia. Joining Jakarta in the top ranks are New Delhi, the capital of India, Shanghai and Guangzhou in China, Manila in the Philippines, Kolkata in India, and Seoul in South Korea, according to NBC News.
Jakarta, situated in Indonesia, a vast archipelago in Southeast Asia flanked by the Indian and Pacific Oceans, stands on Java, the world’s most populous island with a staggering 150 million people. Positioned between Sumatra and Bali, Java is renowned for its 129 active volcanoes scattered across the Indonesian islands, as reported by Sky News.
Indonesia falls within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for volcanic activity along the Pacific Ocean. Mount Semeru in Java recently erupted, showcasing the geological intensity of the area. Jakarta, a bustling metropolis on Java’s western side, offers a vibrant cultural scene, including diverse cuisine, museums, art galleries, historical sites, and a lively nightlife, making it a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia, as praised by Lonely Planet.
The city does face challenges such as traffic congestion, air pollution, and a tropical climate with high temperatures ranging from 23°C to 33°C throughout the year. Visitors can indulge in traditional Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng and regional specialties such as babi guling from Bali or seafood from Sulawesi. Street food culture thrives in Jakarta, with various options like Warung (small restaurants) and Pedagang kaki lima (street vendors) offering delectable treats like Nasi uduk, Soto Betawi, Woku, Sop kaki kambing, and Ikan bakar.