Delhi projected to join the world’s top-tier city economies by 2050

According to Oxford Economics’ 2026 Global Cities Index, Delhi’s economic output is set to surpass $2 trillion, moving it from the 63rd to the 14th-largest city economy worldwide by 2050. The capital’s ascent is attributed to a robust talent pipeline and extensive corporate networks, earning it a 13th-place ranking in human capital. The study notes that 55 Indian cities feature among the top 100 urban growth leaders, underscoring a broader shift toward Asian urban economies.

Despite the optimistic outlook, Delhi faces significant hurdles, notably poor air quality and widening income gaps, which could limit its performance. The index also projects substantial GDP gains for other Indian cities such as Bengaluru, which is expected to grow at an average 9.2% annually through 2030, and Mumbai, projected to rise to the 36th-largest city economy by 2050. Overall, the findings point to a diversified and rapidly expanding urban landscape across India.