Dua Lipa was born in London, England, to Kosovo Albanian parents Anesa (née Rexha) and Dukagjin Lipa.

Lipa attended Fitzjohn's Primary School in West Hampstead, London, where she began her music lessons, including learning to play the cello.

Lipa moved with her family to Pristina, Kosovo, after Kosovo declared independence. She attended Mileniumi i Tretë School and learned more about the Albanian language.

Lipa moved back to London alone and shared a flat with a family friend. She attended Parliament Hill School and re-entered Sylvia Young Theatre School part-time.