Today, Sunday, the First Statistical Forum for Universities and Professional and Scientific Statistical Associations was held, organized by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) in collaboration with the Council of University Affairs. The forum is hosted by Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU) in Riyadh, with the attendance of representatives from specialized universities and colleges, research center staff, heads and executive members of several professional and scientific statistical associations, and a number of academics and specialists in the statistical field.

In a speech delivered by Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics, he stated that this forum comes as part of GASTAT's ongoing efforts to achieve integration among the components of the statistical sector and its continuous endeavors to raise awareness and promote statistical culture in society. He emphasized the importance of integration between the statistical and academic sectors, affirming the significance of scientific cooperation and strengthening professional and academic partnerships to develop the technical skills of statisticians, which in turn reflects on the advancement of statistical work in the Kingdom to keep pace with the latest global methodologies and international statistical standards.

Dr. Talal Abdullah Al Shehri, the advisor and supervisor of the General Administration of Studies, delivered a welcoming speech on behalf of the Secretary-General of the Council of University Affairs, highlighting the vital role of the forum in supporting decision-makers and policymakers with accurate data across various fields of work and production.

Dr. Faisal Al-Sharabi, Chairman of the Professional Association for Statisticians and Data Scientists, expressed his gratitude to GASTAT for organizing this forum and giving statisticians the chance to get together to discuss important statistical and economic topics served by the statistical sector.

The forum included panel discussions and five workshops featuring a number of experts, statisticians, and specialists in data sciences. It discussed the most significant statistical products produced by GASTAT, the procedures followed in executing statistical work, as well as the development of university study plans to meet the needs of the statistical work and provide qualified national statistical personnel. The discussions also included collaboration to establish a statistical hackathon project, innovation and development in statistical products, enhancing the role of university research centers and statistical data, and strengthening the role of universities and associations in developing the technical skills of statisticians.

In this context, the directors- general of departments at GASTAT presented brief overviews of the mechanisms and procedures of work in various statistical fields. They highlighted several important statistical products, including: the population projections and estimates publication, household income and expenditure survey, household culture and entertainment survey, labor market statistics, GDP flash estimates, annual national accounts publication, small and medium enterprises statistics, industrial production index, foreign direct investment, structural business statistics, pilgrimage and Umrah statistics, wholesale and consumer price indices, real estate prices, tourism establishments, livestock statistics, marine fishery and aquaculture publication, food security, electrical energy statistics, household energy, energy efficiency, renewable energy, air, maritime, and land transport statistics.

At the conclusion of the forum, Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics, honored several partners who contributed to the success of the forum, including the Council of University Affairs, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, and the Professional Association for Statisticians and Data Scientists.

It is noteworthy that during the forum, GASTAT signed several Memorandums of Cooperation (MoCs) with Al Baha Region Strategic Development Office, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Professional Association for Statisticians and Data Scientists, and Al-Wedad charity for Orphan Care. These MoCs aim to serve the statistical sector in the Kingdom and its strategic directions of Saudi Vision 2030.

Tomorrow, Sunday, the activities of the First Statistical Forum for Universities and Professional and Scientific Statistical Associations will be launched, which is organized by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) in collaboration with the Council of University Affairs and the Professional Association for Statisticians and Data Scientists. The forum is hosted by Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU) in Riyadh, with the attendance of university presidents, vice presidents, deans of specialized colleges, research center staff, heads and executive members of several professional and scientific statistical associations, and a number of academics and specialists in the statistical field.

This forum is the first of its kind that focuses on exploring ways to integrate the statistical and academic sectors in the Kingdom. It is part of GASTAT’s efforts to raise awareness about the practices of statistical work among specialists and other segments of society. This aims to achieve higher levels of effective and broad response to GASTAT’s fieldwork, ensuring the provision of data and information for various statistical indicators. The forum will involve the participation of academics, experts, and specialists in the fields of statistics and data science.

It is worth noting that the statistical sector in the Kingdom consists of several components, each playing a specific role in the field of statistical work. These components include GASTAT, statistical departments in universities, specialized research centers in statistical studies and research, and professional and scientific statistical associations specializing in data science. These associations serve as a link between the academic statistical side and the practical professional side.

The forum is part of the continuous efforts of GASTAT to enhance statistical scientific knowledge and launch initiatives that contribute to raising the level of statistical awareness in society. This ensures the sustainability of awareness about the importance of data and statistical indicators, and their vital role in supporting and empowering decision-makers and policy-makers to develop sustainable development plans in the coming years based on sound scientific principles and existing facts.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced the results of the Livestock Statistics Publication 2023 for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. According to the report, total raw milk production from dairy farms reached 2.8 billion liters, with 234 thousand dairy cows in specialized agricultural projects. The Riyadh region ranked first in raw milk production, with 1.6 billion liters, followed by the Eastern region in second place, producing 1 billion liters.
The publication’s results revealed that the total number of sheep was 29.4 million, with 22 million goats, of which 19.3% were male and 80.7% were female. The total number of goats was 7.4 million, while camels stood at 2.2 million. 32% of camels were under four years old, and 68% were four years or older.
Additionally, the Livestock Statistics Publication 2023 showed that total broiler chicken production exceeded 1.1 million tons across the various administrative regions. Riyadh region ranked first in broiler chicken production, with 282 thousand tons, followed by Makkah region in second place with 185 thousand tons, and Hail region in third with 171 thousand tons. Meanwhile, table egg production reached 7.9 billion eggs from laying chicken. Riyadh region again led in egg production, with 3 billion eggs, followed by Makkah with 1.4 billion eggs, and the Eastern region with 1 billion eggs, out of the total table egg production in the Kingdom in 2023.
It is worth noting that the Livestock Statistics Publication is based on data from the comprehensive agricultural survey conducted by the General Authority for Statistics across the administrative regions of Saudi Arabia, as well as administrative data from the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, the Agricultural Development Fund, the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority, and the Saudi Central Bank. The publication provides up-to-date data on livestock numbers, poultry and birds, organic livestock, the quantity and value of animal product exports and imports, and the value of loans granted to livestock projects across the Kingdom's administrative regions.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has been awarded the Certificate of Platforms by the Digital Government Authority (DGA) in recognition of its pioneering role in meeting the requirements of the Unified System for Government Platforms through the unified platform. This achievement contributes to enhancing user experience and improving the Kingdom's ranking in international indices. GASTAT is among the first entities to comply with the regulations and specifications of the Digital Platform Code, which align with the latest global standards for digital portals. This initiative supports the digital transformation currently taking place within government entities in the Kingdom, enhances their digital performance, and improves the quality of digital services provided to meet the requirements of Saudi Vision 2030.
The Digital Government Authority hosted an event to honor government entities that have successfully implemented the Platform Code, during which GASTAT was recognized. The Certificate of Platforms was presented by H.E. the Governor of the Digital Government Authority, Eng. Ahmed bin Mohammed Alsuwayan, to the GASTAT Vice President, Mr. Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Rasheed. The event was attended by GASTAT’s team, along with distinguished guests, including senior officials, representatives from government entities, and private sector delegates.
It is noteworthy that the Digital Platform Code is an open-source design system developed by the Digital Government Authority. It standardizes government digital projects, catering to their specific requirements and supporting their mandates. The code establishes unified guidelines for the visual identity of government websites, including colors, fonts, and overall design, while preserving the distinctiveness of each entity and accommodating the unique needs of its platform users.

Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, led the Saudi delegation at the Fifth United Nations World Data Forum, held in Medellín, Colombia, from November 12 to 15, 2024. The event brought together representatives from 193 UN member states, during which Saudi Arabia was officially awarded the right to host the forum's sixth edition in Riyadh in 2026.
During the forum, GASTAT President attended the official meeting of the High-Level Group for Partnership, Coordination, and Capacity Building in Statistics for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (HLG-PCCB). The meeting focused on the group's expectations for the sixth edition of the forum, which will be hosted in Riyadh in 2026, and discussed the key topics to be addressed as preparations begin. Aldossari reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's readiness to host the forum, ensuring all necessary resources are provided to make it an exceptional event that underscores the importance of statistical work. He highlighted the Kingdom's advanced capabilities to host the forum and expressed hope that the event would help advance efforts to deliver high-quality data and statistical indicators, contributing to more informed assessments of progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in member countries.
On another hand, Aldossari participated as a keynote speaker in the forum's sessions, where he shared Saudi Arabia's experience in statistical work. He highlighted the role of the General Authority for Statistics as an independent entity in producing statistical data, which has been developed based on the solid foundations of the official national statistical system established over 65 years ago as the official source of data. He also emphasized GASTAT’s contribution to supporting decision-makers and policymakers, praising the support and empowerment the statistical sector in Saudi Arabia receives in helping achieve the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
In the same context, GASTAT President held several bilateral meetings with heads of international organizations, committees, and global statistical bodies. This included a discussion with the Director of the United Nations Statistics Division, Stefan Schweinfest, on the role of statistical data in sustainable development, its contribution to improving quality of life, and its support for policymakers and decision-makers in countries. Aldossari also met with his counterparts from the statistical offices of Palestine, Switzerland, and Colombia, emphasizing that the data produced by GASTAT, and its counterparts worldwide is a vital component of developmental work and the well-being of citizens. Furthermore, he highlighted how statistical data and indicators contribute to a comprehensive vision that helps build development plans on scientific foundations and called for the exchange of expertise and the sharing of experiences between countries to achieve mutual benefit and integration.
On the sidelines of the forum, GASTAT President also held separate meetings with the CEO of the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data, the President of the Open Data Organization, and the President of the Paris 21 Organization, which focuses on statistics for development. They discussed opportunities for collaboration and how to leverage the experiences provided by these organizations. Dr. Aldossari also highlighted the General Authority for Statistics' efforts in developing its statistical system and its international initiatives to strengthen cooperation in the field of global statistics.
It is worth noting that the Fifth United Nations World Data Forum, held in Colombia, Latin America, focused on updating the global action plan for sustainable development data. Over 3,000 leaders in the field of statistics from governments, national statistical offices, the private sector, academic institutions, civil society, and other organizations involved in statistical work took part in the forum. The event provided a platform to present and discuss innovations in data usage, as well as to strengthen trust, protection, partnerships, and coordination within the sector.
As all countries around the world strive to implement their programs for the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, the data and statistics community at the Fifth United Nations World Data Forum worked to launch an updated sustainable development action plan. This plan includes 12 new priorities along with a series of actions and commitments aimed at achieving high-quality, accurate, and comprehensive data to accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. The updated action plan represents the second generation of the Cape Town Global Action Plan for Sustainable Development Data, which was first introduced at the inaugural United Nations World Data Forum in 2017.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced today the results of the 2024 Health Determinants Statistics Publication for Saudi Arabia. According to the publication, the obesity rate among population aged 15 and above is 23.1%, while 45.1% of individuals in this age group are classified as overweight. Additionally, the prevalence of obesity among children aged 2 to 14 years stands at 14.6%, with 33.3% of children in this age range being overweight.
The publication also reported that 10.2% of the population meet the recommended daily intake of five or more servings of fruit and vegetable. The majority of individuals aged 15 and above (84.8%) consume between one and four servings of fruit and vegetable daily. Only 5% of the population do not consume any servings of fruit or vegetable on a daily basis.
It is important to mention that the Health Determinants Statistics Publication relies on self-reported data from individuals, the National Health Survey, the Women and Children’s Health Survey 2024, and population estimates from the General Authority for Statistics 2023. This bulletin offers a comprehensive view of the community's health status during a specific period, highlighting the importance of tracking and assessing public health and health indicators across different population groups.

Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, officially received the hosting rights for the 6th UN World Data Forum 2026 on behalf of Saudi Arabia. This announcement came at the conclusion of the 5th edition of the forum, held in Medellín, Colombia, from November 12 to 15, 2024. The forum gathered representatives from 193 UN member states. The High-Level Group for Partnership, Coordination, and Capacity-Building in Statistics welcomed Saudi Arabia’s selection as the host for the next forum in Riyadh, following its success in securing the majority vote within the group. The Kingdom’s outstanding bid and capabilities were commended by the group. This achievement highlights Saudi Arabia’s leadership in statistical work and the significant advancements in its statistical system. It also reflects the impact of the Kingdom’s data in demonstrating its role in supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
On this occasion, Dr. Fahad Aldossari, extended his congratulations, on behalf of himself and GASTAT employees, to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, Prime Minister. He expressed gratitude for the support and empowerment GASTAT has received in recent years, which has significantly strengthened its local and international presence, enabling it to excel in statistical work and compete on the global stage. Aldossari noted that Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the 6th UN World Data Forum in Riyadh in 2026 reflects the Kingdom’s significant advancements across various sectors, including its statistical system. He emphasized that the event presents a valuable opportunity to share technical expertise in statistics and establish strategic partnerships with national statistical offices worldwide.
In his speech, Aldossari expressed his gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Colombia, the United Nations, and the National Department of Statistics (DANE) for hosting and organizing this global event. He also extended his appreciation to all representatives of national statistical offices, the program team, and members of the HLG-PCCB for their dedication and hard work in preparing the program. He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment, through the General Authority for Statistics, to enhancing the quality and transparency of statistical data across various fields. He highlighted the Kingdom’s exemplary leadership and outstanding performance in the region, underscoring its pivotal role in advancing statistical excellence.

The UN World Data Forum is a major international event attended by over 20,000 participants, including representatives from governments, national statistical offices, international and regional organizations, civil society, academia, and the private sector. The forum serves as a platform to discuss challenges facing the global data and statistics system and to foster collaboration among policymakers and experts from around the world. It reflects the growing level of cooperation across diverse data systems and underscores the critical importance of data and statistics.
It is worth noting that Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority for Statistics, will host the 6th UN World Data Forum in 2026 in Riyadh. The High-Level Group for Partnership, Coordination, and Capacity-Building in Statistics for the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda (HLG-PCCB) announced Saudi Arabia’s selection by majority vote, following a review of competing countries’ bids and an assessment of their hosting capabilities. This decision reflects the Kingdom’s prominent global standing and its pivotal role in advancing efforts to provide high-quality data and statistical indicators. It also highlights the exceptional contributions of the General Authority for Statistics to the field of statistical work, reaffirming the Kingdom’s leadership in the global statistical community.

In October 2024, the annual inflation rate in Saudi Arabia stood at 1.9%, compared to the same month last year. This rate is among the lowest within the G20 countries.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures the changes in prices paid by consumers for a fixed basket of 490 goods and services. This basket was selected based on the results of the 2018 Household Income and Expenditure Survey. Relevant prices are collected through field visits to points of sale, and CPI statistics are published monthly in Saudi Arabia.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), continued its significant advancement in the Statistical Performance Indicators (SPI) issued by the World Bank. In the 2023 assessment, Saudi Arabia advanced by 22 positions compared to 2022, ranking first in the Arab World and among GCC countries. At the level of the G20 countries, GASTAT achieved 14th place, up from 18th in 2022.
The World Bank recently announced the results of the SPI assessment, covering 187 countries, based on the new methodology for calculating the SPI 2023. This update included a time series from 2016 to 2023 for all countries. The assessment covers five main pillars across more than 51 indicators, addressing data use, data services, statistical products, data sources, and infrastructure. Saudi Arabia ranked among the top seven G20 countries in the fifth pillar, achieving a score of 95% in 2023.
Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, explained that the attention and support provided by the wise leadership have greatly contributed to the development of the statistical sector. This had a significant impact on strengthening GASTAT’s role and advancing its global standing among official statistical entities, enabling it to produce accurate, comprehensive, and high-quality statistical data and indicators. This progress supports decision-makers and policymakers with solid information, aiding in the formulation of sustainable development plans needed across various sectors of the country.
This remarkable progress in the SPI reflects the General Authority for Statistics' efforts to implement a statistical transformation strategy focused on enhancing GASTAT’s technical infrastructure, improving field surveys and statistical products, strengthening partnerships with government, private, and non-profit sectors, enhancing data accessibility, and meeting local, regional, and international statistical requirements. The authority also strives to increase customer satisfaction by continuously improving the presentation and accessibility of statistical data and indicators in an interactive and user-friendly way.

The 42^nd meeting of the Permanent Technical Committee for Statistics of the Arab Economic and Social Council was held in Jeddah on November 6–7, 2024, under the chairmanship of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT). Over two days, representatives from official statistical agencies of Arab countries convened to share expertise, exchange statistical knowledge, and strengthen capacities to advance collaborative Arab statistical work.

Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, President of GASTAT, opened the meeting by welcoming the participating delegations and expressing gratitude to the Arab League and the Statistics and Data Management Division for their efforts in fostering cooperation among member states. He emphasized the critical role of member states in advancing Arab statistical collaboration and the importance of providing accurate and comprehensive data for sustainable development indicators. Discussions included data monitoring, collaboration with regional and international organizations, and the production of tourism sustainability indicators, as well as enhancing mechanisms for data exchange among official statistical agencies in Arab countries.

The meeting addressed various topics over two sessions. The first session reviewed the implementation of recommendations from the 41st meeting, explored the activities of the Statistics and Data Management Division, and discussed the use of modern technology in statistical work. The second session focused on work plans for 2025, updates on population censuses, tourism statistics, and other topics related to shared statistical efforts across Arab countries. Experiences from member countries were also shared, including Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive agricultural survey and Egypt’s study on labor supply and demand and the labor market’s need for technical skills.

The Permanent Technical Committee for Statistics was established in 1972 and held its first meeting in Cairo. The committee’s mission is to develop official statistical systems in Arab countries, enhance their capacity across various stages of statistical activity, and facilitate the implementation of technical programs supported by the Arab League’s General Secretariat. This meeting continues the committee’s efforts to promote the development of statistical capabilities in support of shared Arab goals.

Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, received Mr. Erki Kilu, Minister of Economy and Industry of the Republic of Estonia, along with Ambassador Maria Belolfas and the accompanying delegation at GASTAT’s headquarters. During the meeting, they reviewed various topics of mutual interest and discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in the field of statistical work between the two sides.
At the beginning of the meeting, Dr. Fahad Aldossari welcomed the Minister of Economy and Industry of the Republic of Estonia and his accompanying delegation. He provided an overview of GASTAT’s key activities and its efforts in digital transformation, showcasing GASTAT’s main products, which include 70 statistical products, and the development of data collection tools and methodologies. The significant role played by GASTAT in updating the base year for the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) according to chain-linked series, in line with internationally accepted practices among global and statistically advanced references, was also reviewed. In addition, updates to the Real Estate Index and geographic maps were discussed.
Aldossari also highlighted various regional and international projects, mentioning that the General Authority for Statistics was selected to host the sixth United Nations World Data Forum, set to take place in 2026.
For his part, the Minister of Economy and Industry of the Republic of Estonia expressed his gratitude to the President of the General Authority for Statistics for the warm welcome and congratulated GASTAT on its outstanding achievements. He highlighted the strong relations between the two friendly countries and praised the visit by GASTAT delegation to Estonia, along with its positive impact on various areas of cooperation between both sides.
Estonian Ambassador Maria Belolfas also delivered remarks, expressing her appreciation for the visit and commending the strong relations between the two countries, particularly in the economic sector.
It is worth noting that this meeting follows a visit by a delegation from the General Authority for Statistics to the Republic of Estonia last August, during which they met with officials from the Estonian Statistics Office and held meetings with several other officials involved in statistical work.

The General Authority for Statistics announced today the results of Oil and Gas Statistics Publication 2023 for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. According to the publication's results, the total crude oil production in the Kingdom for 2023 decreased by 9.3% compared to 2022, reaching 3.506 million barrels. Meanwhile, the quantity of crude oil exports recorded a decrease of 9.6%, amounting to 2.431 million barrels compared to 2022.

The total production of gasoline in 2023 decreased by 2.6% compared to 2022, with a production quantity of 224 million barrels. Regarding kerosene and jet fuel, there was an increase in production quantity, reaching 57 million barrels, an increase of 2.7% compared to 2022, based on the results.

The total consumption of gasoline in 2023 increased by 1.8% compared to 2022, with a consumption quantity of 186 million barrels. In terms of kerosene and jet fuel, there was also an increase in consumption, reaching 35 million barrels, up by 32.8% compared to 2022, according to the publication.

The publication showed a decrease in total fuel oil exports for 2023 by 10.3% compared to 2022, with export quantities amounting to 67 million barrels, while imports increased, totaling 88 million barrels with a growth rate of approximately 25.9%. As for gas/diesel oil, there was a decrease in export quantities, which amounted to 206 million barrels, marking a decline of 15.7% compared to 2022, while imports rose to 33 million barrels, with an increase of 43.8%.

It is noteworthy that the Oil and Gas Statistics Publication covers energy data at the level of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, according to the International Standard International Energy Product Classification (SIEC), with data available in a time series for the period (2010-2023).

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released today the flash estimates of the real GDP growth rate for Q3 of 2024 on its official website. Accordingly, the real GDP during Q3 of 2024 achieved a growth rate of 2.8% compared to the same period of the previous year.

The flash estimates revealed that oil activities recorded a growth of 0.3% during Q3 of 2024 compared to the same period of the previous year, while non-oil activities achieved a positive growth rate of 4.2% compared to the same period of the previous year. Additionally, government activities recorded a positive growth rate of 3.1% compared to the same period of the previous year.
The report's results indicated that the seasonally adjusted real GDP during Q3 of 2024 increased by 0.8% compared to Q2 of 2024.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Real Estate Price Index for Q3 2024, which reached 2.6% compared to the same quarter of the previous year, following the updated methodology for calculating the Real Estate Price Index in the Kingdom.
GASTAT clarified that the updated methodology for calculating the index will contribute to providing more comprehensive and high-quality data, supporting efforts to develop the real estate sector, and aligning with best statistical practices used in international benchmarks.
In this context, GASTAT attributed the change in the Real Estate Price Index for Q3 2024 to a 1.6% increase in residential property prices. Year-on-year, residential land prices increased by 1.6%, while apartment prices rose by 1.9%, and villa prices grew by 1.5%. In contrast, commercial property prices saw a significant rise of 6.4%, primarily due to a 6.3% increase in commercial land prices. Among various commercial properties, building prices climbed by 8.6%, while exhibition prices fell by 1.1%. On the other hand, the agricultural sector, particularly agricultural land, experienced a decline of 8.7%.
It is worth noting that the Real Estate Price Index Publication is a statistical tool to measure the relative change in real estate prices in Saudi Arabia. It results from electronic registration and documentation processes carried out by the Ministry of Justice, encompassing various variables in real estate transactions, including value, location, area, sector, and property type.

Under the patronage of His Excellency Majid bin Abdullah Alhoqail, Minister of Municipal and Housing Affairs, Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, participated in a panel discussion titled "The Future of Real Estate: Advanced Management and Data Analysis." This session was held as part of the Global PropTech Summit in the capital, Riyadh, with the presence of a distinguished group of industry experts, investors, real estate developers, and leading global technology companies.
During his participation, Aldossari explained the role of the General Authority for Statistics in developing and enabling digital transformation, which has contributed to diversifying data sources to ensure the quality of statistical products and the comprehensiveness of indicators. These data sources include statistical surveys (field, telephone, and online), the utilization of administrative records, and other data sources such as satellite imagery and geospatial data. This approach has improved the efficiency of statistical operations and contributed to the quicker and more accurate production of high-quality statistical products.
In this context, Aldossari noted that through continuous planning and organizational development, we have successfully improved performance in the development of statistical products and indicators. He emphasized the importance of identifying needs and opportunities within the private sector related to statistical information and data. Furthermore, he highlighted the significance of collaborative efforts between GASTAT and private sector partners, which positively influences the success of joint initiatives. This collaboration supports the ongoing development and transformation of the General Authority for Statistics and takes advantage of advanced statistical programs and products that enhance commercial and investment opportunities in various sectors.
He added that in recent years, the scope of statistical work has expanded significantly, and the statistics sector in the Kingdom has undergone substantial transformations. This has been achieved through initiatives and statistical projects led by the General Authority for Statistics, aimed at producing statistical data and indicators. Additionally, there has been a continuous effort to integrate various data sources using the best data management and governance infrastructures, along with ongoing improvements in mechanisms for sharing statistical data.
It is worth noting that the Global PropTech Summit will take place over two days, October 27-28, 2024. This event serves as an innovative meeting point between technology and the real estate sector, with its themes closely aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and its objectives related to the development of the real estate sector. The summit emphasizes the importance of establishing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a leading center for modern real estate technology practices by adopting innovative activities in digital fields, data analysis, and virtual technologies for the future of the real estate sector.

The General Authority for Statistics announced today that the value of non-oil exports (including re-exports) during August 2024 reached 27.5 billion SAR, compared to 25.6 billion SAR in August 2023, marking an increase of 1.9 billion SAR, or 7.4%, according to the results of the international trade publication for August 2024.

The value of oil exports during August 2024 amounted to 65.3 billion SAR, compared to 77.3 billion SAR in August 2023, representing a decrease of 12.0 billion SAR, or 15.5%.

The results of the publication also showed a decline in merchandise exports during August 2024, which totaled 92.8 billion SAR, compared to 102.9 billion SAR in August 2023, a decrease of 10.1 billion SAR, or 9.8%.

Meanwhile, the value of merchandise imports of the Kingdom during August 2024 was 64.8 billion SAR, compared to 67.4 billion SAR in August 2023, reflecting a decrease of 2.6 billion SAR, or 3.9%.

Dr. Fahad Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics, met with Mr. Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, the CEO of the eGovernment Authority (eGA) in Bahrain, in the capital, Manama, to discuss ways to enhance joint efforts in the statistical sector and opportunities for developing cooperation in statistical data.

During the meeting, both sides reviewed the latest developments in statistical work in both countries, as well as the developmental efforts concerning the approved and updated methodologies for statistical products. This includes administrative records and the development and innovation of statistical products that contribute to supporting the development plans in both countries. Additionally, they discussed the mechanism for agreeing on the exchange of expertise in the areas of technical infrastructure of both authorities and several related topics in statistical work.

This meeting is part of a series of international meetings and visits aimed at building bridges of cooperation with statistical offices in the region, focusing on exchanging expertise, sharing experiences, and informing counterpart entities about the progress being made in the statistical sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The 49th meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Arab Institute for Training and Research in Statistics (AITRS) was inaugurated in Manama, chaired by Dr. Fahad Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics and Chair of the previous meeting of the Board, over a two-day period from October 21 to 22, 2024, with the presence of their excellencies and members of the Board representing the member states.
Dr. Fahad Aldossari expressed, on behalf of the Board members, his sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Kingdom of Bahrain for hosting the 49th meeting. He commended the excellent organization and hospitality by the Information and eGovernment Authority (IGA) in the Kingdom of Bahrain, praising the efforts made by the Board members over the past year to implement the Institute's plan in its areas of specialization, which support the statistical offices in the member states and meet their needs in enhancing the capacity and efficiency of human resources. He emphasized the vital role played by the Institute in achieving cooperation among the member states.
Subsequently, Dr. Fahad Aldossari expressed his thanks and appreciation to the member states for the significant cooperation that the General Authority for Statistics received during its presidency of the 48th meeting, wishing the Republic of Tunisia, represented by the National Institute of Statistics, success in chairing the current 49th meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Arab Institute for Training and Research in Statistics (AITRS).

Dr. Fahad Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics, met with Mr. Erhan Çetinkaya, President of the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat), in Turkish capital, Ankara. This meeting took place on the sidelines of the 13th Session of the OIC Statistical Commission (SESRIC). During the meeting, they discussed the progress being made in statistical work in both countries and highlighted the key statistical products that are being developed and issued.

In this context, Dr. Fahad Aldossari welcomed the constructive cooperation between the two sides to exchange experiences, transfer knowledge, and enhance joint efforts. Several officials from both sides attended the meeting.

This meeting is part of a series of international meetings and visits with the goal of fostering cooperative relationships to exchange experiences, share best practices, and inform counterpart organizations about the advancements in the statistical sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Fahad Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics, met with Mrs. Zehra Zümrüt Selçuk, Director General of (SESRIC) during his visit to the Republic of Turkey. The meeting focused on ways to enhance joint work in the field of statistics and to promote the exchange of expertise between the two parties.

It is noteworthy that this meeting took place on the sidelines of the13th Session of the OIC Statistical Commission (SESRIC), hosted in the Turkish capital, Ankara, with the participation of member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Several officials from both sides attended the meeting.