Current situation analysis: The analysis of the current situation of the statistics sector in Saudi Arabia, which is the base and starting point of preparing the strategy, has showed that this sector is an important priority to the country. The sector has also witnessed a remarkable progress in the statistical production- whether in administrative records or field work for census, surveys, and researches- in addition to the progress in the statistical systems, dissemination methods, and using the latest technologies. However, there are some obstacles and challenges that may face the statistical work and need to be solved in order to achieve a notable improvement in record time, these challenges include: lack of statistical awareness, numbers analysis by non-specialists, not referring to the main sources in some cases, lack of some information in administrative records, lack of providing the required data by some international groups and organization such as: (G20) where Saudi Arabia is a member, as well as inability in drafting and publishing statistical report,, etc.

Vision, Message, and Principals: Based on the analysis of the current situation of the statistical work as well as studying the demand on statistical data and information, the long-term vision was established for the statistics and information sector in Saudi Arabia (by the end of 1451/52H corresponding to 2030) aiming to establish “effective statistical and information sector that meets the needs of beneficiaries with professionalism, credibility and high quality”. The message of the sector and the principles of its work were explained which are based on the official statistics principles issued by the UN, and in accordance with the principles of the Saudi society, focusing on professionalism, integrity, transparency, participation, seriousness in work and results-based management.

Key Contributors: To implement the National Strategy for Statistical Development successfully, all the participants, such as users and producers of statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia, must work collectively and collaboratively to achieve the desired goal. Therefore, one of the most important pillar of the strategy is to pay a significant attention to the different classes, qualifications, and roles of the users.  However, the primary role of the data producers is to produce, analyze as well as publish reliable and up-to-date statistical data and information, to meet the needs of the users in a timely manner. Furthermore, to raise awareness and promote statistical culture in the community.

The success of the Strategy requires bilateral, regional and international cooperation, as well as a more effective participation by the statistics sector in international forums, in order to follow up and contribute to the developments of statistical methodologies, standards, methods, and classifications processes.

Action Plan during the Tenth Development Plan Period of Time: The first phase of the implementation process of the National Strategy for Statistical Development, which extends throughout the entire period of the Tenth Development Plan (1437/36 H.-1441/40 H. – corresponding 2015-2019), focuses on strengthening current programs, enterprises, and activities. Such as the National Database Enterprise, as well as the statistical units, centers and departments’ efforts exerted in order to develop their businesses. The Statistics & Information Sector will seek to ensure the integration of these efforts, through the exchange of experiences among relevant entities in order to benefit from success stories and avoid mistakes repetition. The main objective of the first phase also is to highlight the efforts that will help in achieving the Strategy’s new objectives, such as conducting the 2020 General Population and Housing Census through the use of administrative records. Such efforts will serve in raising statistical awareness, increasing the use of statistical information and data, as well as addressing the growing demand for these data and information, through implementing relevant elements and making the necessary adjustments gradually.

Implementation, Monitoring, Assessment and Update: The National Strategy for Statistical Development is an iterative process which gradually improves, taking into account the lessons drawn from its implementation process. The Strategy is enriched by the developments occurring to national development action plans and strategies, as well as best international practices. The Strategy will be implemented through the five-year action and development plans, starting with the Tenth Development Plan, as stated above. Hence, all Statistics & Information Sector’s entities will prepare and implement detailed operational plans in relevant fields. The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) will be, therefore, in charge of supporting and coordinating these efforts in order to ensure their full integration. 

It worth mentioning that achievements, results, and implementation level will be closely monitored, and an annual report on the Strategy implementation process will be prepared and published. Furthermore, two assessments for each five-year period (at mid-phase and after completion) and a periodic update of the Strategy will be carried out. This will be done based on the lessons learned from all of these elements and relevant developments occurring inside and outside Saudi Arabia.