Qatar set a new population record at the end of last month, clocking in at some 2,673,022 people.

That’s a 5 percent increase from last February, or about extra 127,419 residents, according to figures from the Ministry of Development, Planning and Statistics (MDPS).

The rising population figures come despite layoffs that resulted in the exit of tens of thousands of expats last year.

It is likely due to the hiring of blue-collar expats who are working to complete several infrastructure and World Cup-related projects before 2022.

Previous record

Qatar last hit an all-time population high at the end of November.

However, the pace of growth is continuing to slow down, as per MDPS forecasts.

This may come as a relief to some commuters, who spent more than 109 hours in traffic congestion last year, according to a recent study.

But it could spell continuing trouble for property owners and hotels, both of whom have seen demand tumble in recent months.

Thoughts?