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About Aruba · Aruba
Aruba Population Guide
120,000 residents. The most diverse island in the Caribbean by nationality. A culture shaped by 90+ nationalities living on 70 square miles of island.
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~120,000
Registered residents
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90+ Nationalities
Most diverse in Caribbean
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Dutch Territory
Kingdom of Netherlands
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Oranjestad
Capital city
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Tourism
Primary economy
Aruba’s Population and Demographics
Aruba has a registered population of approximately 120,000 people, making it one of the more densely populated islands in the Caribbean relative to its size. The island’s prosperity — driven primarily by tourism and oil refining — has attracted workers and immigrants from over 90 countries, making Aruba one of the most multicultural territories in the entire Caribbean region.
The indigenous Arawak people, who inhabited the island before European colonisation, have largely assimilated into the general population, though their cultural influence remains in the Papiamento language, certain place names, and the cave paintings at Arikok National Park.
Culture and Identity
Papiamento — the native Creole language of Aruba, spoken by the vast majority of residents regardless of ancestry. A mix of Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, English, and African languages that evolved on the island over centuries.
Main ethnic groups — Aruban (mixed Arawak, African, European), Dutch, Colombian, Venezuelan, Dominican, and various Caribbean nationalities. The island’s phrase “One Happy Island” reflects a genuine culture of coexistence.
Religion — predominantly Roman Catholic, reflecting the Spanish colonial period. Multiple other religious communities are also present and active.
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Book your tours before you arrive. The Natural Pool jeep safari and catamaran sell out.