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Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, participated in the celebration of Gulf Statistics Day for GCC countries, held today, Monday, in Muscat, Oman, under the patronage of His Excellency Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, the Secretary-General of the GCC. The event, which was held under the theme "The Future of Statistics Towards Sustainable Gulf Development," highlights the strategic role of the Gulf statistical system in promoting awareness of the pivotal role of statistics in supporting decision-making, building development policies, and achieving the developmental goals of the visions in the member states.
On this occasion, Dr. Fahd Al-Dosari congratulated those working in the statistical sector, praising the role of the Statistical Center for the GCC countries in coordinating between national statistical centers and planning agencies in the member states. He emphasized that the cooperation between the GCC countries has contributed to building shared visions to strengthen statistical work, exchange expertise, and integrate efforts at the Gulf level.
It is worth noting that the Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which met in Manama, Bahrain, on November 24, 2016, approved the designation of a day each year to celebrate Gulf Statistics Day during its (141) session. The significance of this day lies in emphasizing the partnership between the community and statisticians, as well as highlighting the vital role of statistics in achieving sustainable development and promoting statistical work aimed at providing statistical data that supports the development plans of the GCC countries.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued today the International Trade Statistics Publication for October 2024. According to the results of the publication, the value of merchandise exports reached 92.8 million SAR, with oil exports valued at 67.4 million SAR and non-oil exports (including re-exports) at 25.4 million SAR, compared to 22.5 million SAR in October 2023, representing a 12.7% increase. 

The publication also indicated that the value of merchandise imports for the Kingdom in October 2024 was 72 million SAR, compared to 74.9 million SAR in October 2023, a decrease of 3.8% amounting to 2.9 million SAR.

It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, in addition to the documentation and archiving of all statistical information and data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Furthermore, GASTAT registers, classifies, and analyzes data. It extracts the data indicators as well.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced today the results of the Comprehensive Economic Survey publication for 2023 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The results included a set of key indicators reflecting the main structural features of the business sector.

The survey results revealed that the total operating revenues amounted to SAR 5,292 billion, while the total operating expenses reached SAR 2,165 billion. Additionally, the compensation for employees in the sector amounted to SAR 544.7 billion. The results also indicated that the total fixed capital formation value for this sector amounted to SAR 867.8 billion.

It is noteworthy that the results of the Comprehensive Economic Survey will contribute to the formation of highly accurate, comprehensive, and professional statistical data and indicators. These will highlight the real and actual economic growth in the Kingdom, meeting the requirements of statistical organizations and local, regional, and international entities.

It is worth mentioning that the Comprehensive Economic Survey serves as an integrated database for economic data. It directly contributes to providing and measuring a wide range of economic indicators. It offers precise, updated, and more detailed statistical data and indicators about establishments in the Kingdom, supporting decision-makers, policymakers, and investors and enabling them to develop and enhance the business sector in the Kingdom.

GASTAT announced today the results of Umrah statistics for the third quarter of 2024. The results revealed that the total number of Umrah performers reached 6,254,751 in Q3 of 2024, reflecting an increase of 35.0% compared to the same quarter of the previous year. Male Umrah performers constituted 57.4%, while female Umrah performers accounted for 42.6% of the total during the quarter. Saudi Umrah performers made up 10.7% of the total during Q3 of 2024.

The report indicated that the total number of Umrah performers from abroad reached 3,348,512 in Q3 of 2024, representing a 29.2% increase compared to Q3 of 2023. Among them, male performers numbered 1,707,514 (or 51.0%), while female performers numbered 1,638,743 (or 49.0%) of the total foreign Umrah performers during Q3 of 2024.

The results also showed that the total number of domestic Umrah performers reached approximately 2,906,239 in Q3 of 2024, reflecting a 42.4% increase compared to Q3 of 2023. Of these, 671,729 were Saudi nationals (23.1%), while 2,234,510 were non-Saudis (76.9%). Additionally, male Umrah performers from within the Kingdom numbered 1,883,199 (64.8%), while female performers numbered 1,023,040 (35.2%) of the total domestic Umrah performers during Q3 of 2024.

The report highlighted that foreign Umrah performers aged between 35 and 44 years formed the largest percentage, constituting 17.6% of the total foreign Umrah performers in Q3 of 2024. On the other hand, those aged over 65 years made up the smallest percentage at 9.2%. Conversely, domestic Umrah performers aged between 30 and 39 years represented the largest group, accounting for 29.2% of the total domestic Umrah performers in the same quarter.

The results further showed that the number of domestic Umrah performers who performed Umrah only once reached approximately 2,295,747. Among them, 64.0% were male, and 36.0% were female. August recorded the highest percentage of domestic Umrah performers who performed Umrah once, representing 40.1% of the total domestic Umrah performers for this category during Q3 of 2024.

The report also revealed that 60.8% of foreign Umrah performers arrived on Umrah visas, while 29.7% arrived on other types of visas. Meanwhile, 6.6% of the foreign Umrah performers arrived on electronic visit visas, and 2.9% arrived using GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) visas during Q3 of 2024.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released today the results of the Industrial Production Index (IPI) for November 2024. According to the publication, the IPI increased by 3.4% compared to the same month of the previous year (November 2023), driven by growth in mining and quarrying activities, manufacturing activities, and water supply, sewage, and waste management activities.
The publication results showed a 1.2% year-on-year increase in the sub-index for mining and quarrying activities and a 7.2% rise in the sub-index for manufacturing activities. Meanwhile, the sub-index for electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supplies recorded a 2.1% decline, whereas the sub-index for water supply, sewage, and waste management activities increased by 10.5%.
On the other hand, the results indicated a 3.8% increase in the index for oil-related activities and a 2.4% rise in the index for non-oil activities compared to November of the previous year.
It is worth noting that GASTAT issues the Industrial Production Index on a monthly basis. This economic indicator reflects the relative changes in the volume of industrial production, based on data collected from the Industrial Production Survey. The survey targets a sample of industrial establishments engaged in key activities, including mining and quarrying, manufacturing, electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply, as well as water supply, sewage, waste management, and remediation activities.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Early Childhood Development and Child Well-Being Statistics Publication for 2024. According to the results of the publication, the percentage of children aged (36-59 months) enrolled in early childhood education programs is 9.54%, with males representing 10.68% compared to 8.35% for females. 
The publication also indicated that the participation rate in organized learning, one year before the official enrollment in primary education, is 64.03%. This rate has seen an increase among Saudi females aged 5 years, reaching 65.58% compared to other groups. 
The results showed that 32.07% of children aged (5-7) use digital technology devices for one to two hours each day, while 25.78% of these children use these devices for less than one hour daily. Additionally, the publication revealed that 82.31% of males are on the right growth path in the areas of health, learning, psychological well-being, and social development, while 82.35% of females are on the right path in these areas. 
The results also indicated that a positive and stimulating home environment for children aged (36-59 months) involves their mothers, fathers, or any other adult family member participating in activities such as reading or looking at picture books, storytelling, singing and nursery rhymes, taking children outside, playing with them, naming objects and counting, and drawing. 

The percentage of children aged (36-59 months) living in a positive and stimulating home environment for learning is 82.90%. By sex, females achieved a rate of 83.40% compared to 82.42% for males. 
The results showed that 23.56% of children under the age of five own one or two children's books, while the percentage of those owning three or more books drops to 9.89%.  It is worth noting that early childhood development is a multidimensional process that results in gradual growth in children's motor, cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and organizational skills and abilities during the first few years of life.

The President of the General Authority for Statistics, Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, extended his congratulations to the members of the Statistical Center for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC-Stat) on Gulf Statistics Day, which falls on Tuesday, December 24, 2024. He commended the center's role in promoting statistical work and supporting national statistical and planning agencies in the GCC countries. Dr. Aldossari emphasized the importance of precise statistical data and indicators provided by statistical agencies, which play a vital role in supporting decision-makers and policymakers to make informed decisions and build successful national development policies.
Dr. Aldossari highlighted that statistical work is one of the fundamental pillars that contribute to enhancing strategic plans in GCC countries and achieving their sustainable development goals. This is due to the accurate statistical data, information, and indicators it provides, which aid in policy formulation and the analysis of indicators to achieve shared visions.
He further explained that by developing statistical work, overcoming its challenges, and removing obstacles, it is possible to provide a wealth of accurate data and statistical indicators. These resources enable the measurement of progress toward achieving future visions and contribute to the economic and developmental integration that the GCC countries aspire to achieve.
The President of the General Authority for Statistics expressed Saudi Arabia's aspiration to strengthen Gulf statistical work and strategic cooperation across various statistical fields. He also stressed the importance of continuous coordination among GCC countries to advance their economies and build a solid economic foundation supported by high-quality statistical data and information. These resources serve as a reliable reference for making critical decisions within the GCC, aiming for greater economic prosperity and well-being for its people.
It is noteworthy that the Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), during its 141st session held in Manama, Bahrain, on November 24, 2016, approved the designation of an annual Gulf Statistics Day. The significance of this day lies in emphasizing the community's partnership with statisticians and shedding light on the vital role that statistics play in achieving sustainable development in the GCC. Furthermore, it highlights the strategic role of the Gulf statistical system in decision-making and the formulation of developmental policies in the region.
Saudi Arabia, as the first GCC country to implement a statistical system in 1349H (1930), recognized early on the importance of statistics and information as a cornerstone for building and development. This foundational approach supports any aspiring country seeking progress on solid and strong bases. The General Authority for Statistics joins other statistical agencies in the GCC in celebrating this year's Gulf Statistics Day under the theme: "The Future of Statistics Towards Sustainable Gulf Development."
 

President of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) Dr. Fahad Aldossari  led GASTAT’s delegation participating in the 13th session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Statistical Commission, (OIC-Stat), in Ankara, Turkey, on October 15 and 16, 2024. This session brought together heads of official statistical centers from OIC member states to exchange experience, discuss best practices, and enhance statistical capabilities within the organization. while guided by specific goals and principles to strengthen the spirit of solidarity and cooperation among Islamic countries.

Participants in the meetings discussed the follow-up on the implementation of the OIC Statistical Commission 2021-2025 work plan, along with other topics included in the current session's agenda. These topics included reviewing indicators related to the second goal of the Global Sustainable Development Goals and the role of official statistical agencies and offices in Islamic countries in supporting development plans in member states and enhancing the exchange of experiences among them.

It is noteworthy that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosted the 12th session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Statistical Commission (OIC-StatCom) last year, which took place in Jeddah over two days (October 3 and 4, 2023). Heads of official statistical centers from OIC member states participated in discussions. This was the first time that the committee's meetings were held outside the headquarters country (Turkey), reflecting the Kingdom’s international status and its Arab and Islamic position, and affirming its keenness to enhance communication and joint work among Islamic countries in all fields.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the flash estimates of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the fourth quarter of 2024. According to GASTAT’s estimates, the real GDP achieved a growth of 4.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the same period of the previous year, marking the highest growth rate in the last two years, supported by the growth of key economic activities. Non-oil activities recorded an increase of 4.6%, while oil activities grew by 3.4%. Additionally, government activities rose by 2.2% compared to the same period of the previous year. The results also showed that the seasonally adjusted real GDP increased by 0.3% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of the same year.

It is worth mentioning that  the quarterly flash estimates of GDP provide an assessment of the real growth rates shortly after the reference quarter ends, even when the data for that quarter is still incomplete. GASTAT will publish the actual real GDP results for the fourth quarter of 2024 in March 2025.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) launches the Innovation Lab today, Monday, January 20, 2025, as the first specialized innovation lab in statistics in the Kingdom. The lab aims to enhance community partnerships with researchers and stakeholders in the statistics and data science fields from universities, statistical associations, research centers, and innovation hubs. This initiative empowers the engagement in statistical innovation, reflecting GASTAT’s efforts to keep pace with economic and social changes in society and continuously innovate in metrics and indicators. This supports the delivery of high-quality and accurate statistical readings and products to help achieve the comprehensive and sustainable development goals that align with Saudi Vision 2030.

The Innovation Lab focuses on identifying statistical topics for research and sharing them with the target groups by inviting participation requests. These requests are reviewed by specialized teams, who work together with the GASTAT’s team to create an initial project proposal and evaluate its outcomes, aiming to incorporate it into the statistical production process. After receiving research applications through the statistical innovation platform and selecting the candidates, joint teams are formed between the applicants and the GASTAT’s experts to refine the project idea within six weeks. To strengthen this collaboration, the Innovation Lab will include an innovative solution in statistical products after evaluation by the technical committee.

The Innovation Lab projects will play an effective role in the development of statistical work in the Kingdom. This will be reflected in advancing statistical methodologies, coming up with data, indicators and products that read the current economic and social reality, and enabling community innovation in GASTAT’s products.

GASTAT invites those interested in applying for the proposed projects to review all details and the participation mechanism through its official portal (Statistical Innovation Platform) by visiting the following link:https://www.stats.gov.sa/web/guest/innovation-platform.

It welcomes all inquiries and requests for information through contacting the representatives at the unified statistical phone number (199009) or via email at customer support (info@stats.gov.sa) or the Innovation Lab email (innovationlab@stats.gov).

Preliminary results indicate a 7.9% increase in the Industrial Production Index (IPI) in June 2025 compared to the same month of the previous year (June 2024), according to IPI publication for June 2025 issued by GASTAT. 
The sub-index of mining and quarrying activity increased by 6.0% year on year, while the sub-index of manufacturing activity increased by 11.1%. The sub-index of electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply activity recorded an annual increase of 5.6%, and the sub-index of water supply, sewerage and waste management and remediation activities increased by 6.9%, compared to June 2024. By main economic activities, the results indicate that the index of oil activities in June 2025 increased by 7.7%, and the index of non-oil activities increased by 8.6%,  the publication noted.

It is worth noting that GASTAT publishes the Industrial Production Index (IPI) monthly. The IPI is an economic indicator that reflects the relative changes in the volume of industrial output, based on data from the Industrial Production Survey, which is conducted on a sample of industrial establishments engaged in the targeted activities: mining and quarrying, manufacturing, electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply, and water supply, sewerage and waste management and remediation activities.

The United Nations (UN) announced the election of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), as co-chair of Working Group on Data Governance (WGDG) of the UN Statistical Commission led by GASTAT’s President, Fahad Aldossari. This step signifies the expanding international recognition of the Kingdom's preeminent role in advancing digital transformation and the development of official data and statistical governance policies. This announcement comes as part of the Kingdom's commitment to supporting global efforts and working with international partners to build a secure and reliable digital future. The aim is to boost confidence in the international community and provide accurate statistics that support development policies and decision-making, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
This group serves as an international platform and a central tool for global coordination on data governance. It helps to establish common terminology, facilitate the exchange of national best practices and expertise at regional and international levels, and create a guiding framework for organizing and using data sources. These efforts enhance transparency, serve sustainable development goals, develop foundational principles and leverage existing initiatives to define global and regional data governance principles and their applicability to official data and statistics.
The Kingdom's membership will contribute to fostering a secure and reliable global statistical data environment, driving innovation, and enabling communities to maximize its value to support economic and social development. It will also help in drafting international data governance standards and policies, in addition to benefiting from the exchange of the latest international practices and developing initiatives that enhance innovation and cooperation among member states.
It is worth noting that WGDG was established this year and held its first meeting with GASTAT’s President, Fahad Aldossari participating as co-chair. The meeting focused on discussing the timeline for the group's work, its roles, and its key tasks.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced today, in its quarterly publication, that the total number of Umrah performers reached 15,222,497 in Q1 of 2025. Saudi Umrah performers accounted for 24%, while males represented 60.5% compared to 39.5% for females.
The number of external Umrah performers reached 6,523,630, recording an increase of 10.7% compared to Q1 of 2024. The majority of them arrived through airports by 82.2%. Meanwhile, the number of internal Umrah performers totaled 8,698,867, of which non-Saudis represented 58%. January 2025 recorded the highest percentage of external Umrah performers with 36.5%. In contrast, March recorded the lowest number in terms of external Umrah performers. On the other hand, March recorded the highest number of internal Umrah performers at 80.9%, whereas January recorded the lowest number. The total number of visitors to Madinah reached 6,452,696 during Q1 of 2025, where external visitors represented 4,412,689, according to the publication.  
It is noteworthy that Umrah and Madinah visitation statistics are published on a quarterly basis starting from 2024, presenting the numbers and percentages of external and internal Umrah performers and visitors to Madinah. The results are based on field surveys and administrative records from the Pilgrim Experience Program and the Ministry of Tourism, in addition to approved statistical models.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has released today a special report on Saudi women through its official website, www.stats.gov.sa. The report is distinguished by the breadth and diversity of its statistical indicators concerning Saudi women aged 15 years and above, encompassing various domains such as education, health, employment, culture, and entertainment, in addition to several other key statistical insights.
The report is based on a comprehensive set of indicators specific to Saudi women within the 15+ age group, derived from the results of multiple surveys conducted by GASTAT. It also incorporates administrative data and population estimates to deliver a wide-ranging statistical overview of women across social, economic, educational, health, cultural, and recreational sectors.
According to the findings of the Saudi Women Report 2024, issued by GASTAT, the total number of Saudi females reached 9,807,663. Women aged 15 to 34 accounted for 35.7% of the total female population, while those aged 20 to 24 represented 17.6%. These figures underscore the significant share of younger age groups among Saudi women compared to other age segments. 
The report also highlighted the efforts undertaken to empower Saudi women in the labor market, which resulted in a significant decline in female unemployment rates. In 2024, the unemployment rate among Saudi women dropped notably to 13%, compared to 19% in 2022. The quarterly unemployment rate for Q4 2024 was recorded at 11.9%, down from 13.9% in the corresponding quarter of 2023. This decline coincided with the broadening of women’s economic participation and the increase in their employment across various sectors.
The report also underscored the growing achievements of Saudi women in the fields of education, innovation, and sports. Among Saudi females aged 25 years and above, 35.3% held a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. In 2024, a total of 22 Saudi women were granted patents, while Saudi women garnered 1,956 local and international awards in the sports sector during the year.
The report further revealed that 44.6% of Saudi women aged 18 years and above engaged in physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week. It also highlighted a broad level of participation in cultural and recreational activities, with visits to parks and gardens recording the highest rate at 62.7%.
The Saudi Women Report is one of the key statistical products issued by GASTAT, showcasing the most significant indicators related to Saudi women. It highlights their advancement and empowerment in the labor market, as well as their progress across social, educational, health, cultural, and recreational domains. These indicators are measured and published on an annual basis.
It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all statistical work in addition to providing technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, and documents and archives all statistical information and data covering all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from their multiple sources. Data are compiled, classified, analyzed, and their indicators extracted.
 

The Construction Cost Index (CCI) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia recorded an increase of 0.7% in July 2025 compared to the same month last year. This rise is attributed to a 0.7% increase in residential sector costs and a 0.6% increase in non-residential sector costs, according to the CCI publication for July 2025 issued by GASTAT.
On a monthly basis, construction costs in the residential sector increased by 0.4% in July 2025 compared to the previous month of the same year, while costs in the non-residential sector rose by 0.5%.
It is noteworthy that CCI reflects price movements of construction inputs across 51 items of goods and services, with prices collected monthly from various regions of the Kingdom. The year 2023 has been set as the base year for this index.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) participated in the 43rd meeting of the Permanent Technical Committee for Statistics, held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, in Muscat, the capital of the Sultanate of Oman. The meeting brought together representatives of Arab statistical offices and specialized organizations with the aim of strengthening Arab cooperation and promoting the exchange of expertise and information in the field of statistics.
The delegation of GASTAT was headed by the President of GASTAT, Fahad Aldossari. The meeting discussed several key items on the agenda, including the follow-up on the implementation of the recommendations of the previous meeting, the review of the statistical activities of Arab offices for 2025, and the reports and recommendations of the specialized subcommittees. The meeting also discussed the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030 indicators and the latest developments in the use of modern technologies in statistical work, in addition to the 2026 work program of the Statistics and Information Databases Department.
It is worth noting that the Permanent Technical Committee for Statistics is one of the leading Arab committees specialized in the field of statistics. It plays a key role in developing Arab statistical capacities and coordinating efforts between national offices and regional and international organizations in support of advancing joint Arab statistical work.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) participated in the 50th meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Arab Institute for Training and Research in Statistics (AITRS), held on Monday, October 13, 2025, in Muscat, the capital of the Sultanate of Oman. The meeting brought together representatives of Arab statistical offices and specialized organizations to discuss key topics related to the development of statistical work in the Arab region and to enhance cooperation and integration in the fields of training, research, and statistical studies.
The delegation of GASTAT was headed by the President of GASTAT, Fahad Aldossari. The meeting discussed a number of key items on the agenda, including the Director General’s report for 2025, the Institute’s work program and plan for 2026–2027, and the proposed budget for 2026. The meeting also reviewed the outcomes of the 2020–2030 strategy evaluation study and highlighted the statistical activities and initiatives implemented across Arab countries. Additionally, the meeting explored mechanisms to strengthen cooperation between the Institute and Arab statistical offices and discussed ways to further develop the Institute’s training programs to meet the evolving needs of Arab statistical offices.
It is worth noting that AITRS was established in 1973 and includes 22 Arab countries as members. The Board of Trustees, comprising the heads of Arab statistical offices, oversees the formulation of the Institute’s general policies and the approval of its programs and annual budgets.
 

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance fieldwork tools, improve data collection mechanisms, and adopt digital solutions to boost responsiveness in field data collection, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has introduced a new service allowing verification of field researchers’ identities through “Tawakkalna” application. This initiative also leverages integration with government entities and leading digital platforms to strengthen the credibility of field researchers and support statistical field operations with the highest standards of accuracy and transparency.
This step reflects GASTAT’s commitment to fulfilling its national role in conducting various field surveys and producing statistical indicators by engaging trained field researchers who visit selected statistical samples, including households and establishments, in accordance with the regulations governing statistical work in the Kingdom.
GASTAT clarified that field researcher identity can be verified through the following steps:

• Wearing the official uniform designated for fieldwork.
• Displaying the digital ID card via the Tawakkalna application.
• Carrying the tablet device used for data collection.

GASTAT called on all members of the community to cooperate with its field researchers, emphasizing that they are Saudi citizens performing an official government duty. GASTAT stressed the significance of their work, which forms a vital pillar in improving the quality of statistical outputs and products.
In the same context, GASTAT reaffirmed its full commitment to the highest standards of confidentiality and data protection, in accordance with regulations, and assured that all collected data is used strictly for official statistical purposes. GASTAT also emphasized its dedication to safeguarding the rights of its employees during the performance of their official duties and taking all necessary legal measures against any obstruction to their work in order to ensure the continuity of field work, which is an integral component of statistical processes aimed at achieving national objectives.
For inquiries, please contact GASTAT via the unified number: 199009.
 

King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language ) KSGAAL(, in collaboration with the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), has launched the Glossary of Statistical Terms. The goal of this strategic step is standardizing statistical concepts, providing a reliable reference for researchers, decision-makers, and media outlets, and offering a specialized tool that supports transparency and enhances statistical awareness among data and indicator users.
GASTAT emphasized that the glossary is part of its efforts to develop the knowledge infrastructure that supports the production of official data and statistics, and to ensure the standardization of terminology used across the statistical sector in accordance with the latest statistical methodologies. GASTAT undertook the collection of terms, alignment with reliable international sources, thorough review, and translation to facilitate the exchange of data and information in a precise and clear language that enhances output quality and ensures alignment with international standards.
The glossary includes a comprehensive list of statistical terms and definitions commonly used in methodologies and reports—both nationally and internationally—issued by GASTAT, presented in both Arabic and English. It is organized into three main categories: social, economic, and spatial and environmental terms. It is available through an interactive interface that allows users to browse alphabetically or search directly using a search bar. It was developed following an integrated methodology that involved collecting terms from GASTAT’s reports in addition to internal and external official statistical sources. The terms were reviewed, and the most relevant and applicable to GASTAT’s work were selected, defined, and linguistically validated for accuracy.
The glossary is part of ongoing efforts to develop innovative knowledge tools that promote the unified use of statistical data, serving all interested audiences, especially planners and decision-makers across various sectors. It will be made available also on SIWAR linguistic dictionaries Platform to ensure easy access for users, with advanced search capabilities provided. (To view the glossary, click here).
It is worth noting that SIWAR linguistic dictionaries Platform is one of the strategic projects of KSGAAL within its language initiatives. It aims to support the dissemination of digital dictionaries and facilitate their development and management in accordance with the latest scientific methodologies, serving as a central resource for specialists, interested parties, and dictionary creators, including both individuals and institutions. 
 GASTAT invites those interested in viewing the glossary to access GASTAT's portal by visiting the following link: [ www.stats.gov.sa/en/glossary-of-statistical-terms ], to benefit from the glossary by using standardized statistical terminology and a common statistical language that unites statisticians, researchers, and academics. This will facilitate the acquisition of knowledge and the exchange of expertise, which contributes to enhancing the quality of statistical research and raising the level of statistical awareness in the community.

President of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, participated in the 14th session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Statistical Commission (OIC-StatCom), in Ankara, Turkey, from October 1-3, 2025.
 The meeting brought together heads of official statistical centers from OIC member states to exchange expertise, showcase best practices, strengthen statistical capabilities within the organization, and discuss key statistical trends and mechanisms to enhance cooperation in data sharing and developing statistical capabilities.
The meeting discussed the follow-up on the implementation of the OIC-StatCom 2026-2030 work plan, along with the role of official statistical agencies and offices in Islamic countries to enhance the exchange of expertise among them, standardize statistical methodologies and standards, and review future aspirations for statistical work in member states.
It is noteworthy that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosted the 12th session of OIC-StatCom 2023, which took place in Jeddah over two days with the participation of the heads of official statistical centers from OIC member states. This was the first time that the committee's meetings were held outside the headquarters country (Turkey), reflecting the Kingdom’s international status and its Arab and Islamic position, and affirming its keenness to enhance communication and joint work among Islamic countries in all fields.
Moreover, it is noted that the Statistical, Economic and Social Research and Training Centre for Islamic Countries (SESRIC) is a subsidiary organ of the OIC which is mandated to collect, process, and disseminate socio-economic statistics; study and evaluate the economic and social developments; and organize training programs for OIC member states.