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The Construction Cost Index (CCI) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia increased by 1.0% in October 2025 compared with the same month last year. This upturn is mainly driven by a 1.0% rise in residential construction costs and a 0.9% rise in non-residential construction costs, according to the October 2025 Construction Cost Index Publication issued by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT).
Month-over-month, residential construction costs remained unchanged in October 2025 relative to September 2025. This stability reflects the steady monthly prices observed in both the residential and non-residential sectors, as neither recorded any notable rate of change.
It is noteworthy that the Construction Cost Index (CCI) tracks price movements of construction inputs across 51 goods and services, with prices collected monthly from regions across the Kingdom. The index uses 2023 as its base year and was introduced by GASTAT in mid-2024 as part of ongoing efforts to enhance statistical products for key sectors. The CCI provides a reliable and effective reference supported by precise estimates based on comprehensive analysis of key material costs, labor costs, equipment and machinery rental, and energy costs for both residential and non-residential sectors. The index aims to support informed decision-making for contractors, real estate developers, and relevant stakeholders and to contribute to shaping a clear roadmap for residential and non-residential construction projects within the construction sector.
 

In a significant regional gathering focused on the future of data and statistics, Fahad Aldossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, took part in a panel discussion titled “Insights of GCC Statistical Leaders: Toward an Integrated Data System for a Sustainable Future.” The session was held during the Third Gulf Statistical Forum hosted by the State of Qatar, which brought together a wide range of statistical leaders, experts, and decision-makers from GCC countries to strengthen collaborative statistical efforts and explore the evolving landscape of data in the region.
Aldossari highlighted the Kingdom’s comprehensive statistical transformation journey, underscoring that reliable statistical data serves as a central pillar in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. He explained that GASTAT has, in recent years, implemented an extensive transformation plan focused on rebuilding the national statistical system and enhancing its digital infrastructure to improve data quality and accelerate production. He also noted GASTAT’s commitment to diversifying data sources, expanding data utilization, and adopting advanced international frameworks and standards to strengthen data consistency and elevate international comparability.
He concluded by emphasizing Saudi Arabia’s regional leadership in advancing statistical development and called for continued GCC cooperation to keep pace with the rapid advancements in data and its technologies.
The Gulf Statistical Forum is recognized as one of the region’s leading platforms dedicated to the statistics sector. It brings together statistical leaders, experts, and policymakers to discuss key developments, challenges, and opportunities in the data field, while supporting efforts to enhance national statistical systems and build capacities that promote sustainable economic and social development across the Gulf.
 

أصدرت الهيئة العامة للإحصاء اليوم نشرتي إحصاءات التجارة الدولية السلعية لشهر سبتمبر 2025م، والربع الثالث من نفس العام. وكشفت نتائج نشرة شهر سبتمبر عن استمرار نمو الصادرات غير البترولية (شاملة إعادة التصدير) حيث سجلت ارتفاعًا بنسبة 21.7% في شهر سبتمبر  2025م مقارنةً بسبتمبر  2024م، كما ارتفعت الصادرات الوطنية غير البترولية (باستثناء إعادة التصدير) بنسبة 2.8%، ووفقًا لنتائج النشرة فقد زادت قيمة السلع المعاد تصديرها بنسبة 72.2%، كما حقَّقت الصادرات السلعية الكلية ارتفاعًا بنسبة 14.0%، مع ارتفاع الصادرات البترولية بنسبة 10.7%، لتتراجع نسبة الصادرات البترولية من إجمالي الصادرات إلى 68.4% مقابل 70.4% في سبتمبر  2024م.
أما الواردات السلعية فقد ارتفعت بنسبة 2.8%، وأسهم ذلك في تحسّن نسبة الصادرات غير البترولية إلى الواردات لتبلغ 42.5% مقابل 35.9%، في حين ارتفع الفائض في الميزان التجاري بنسبة 66.3% مقارنةً بالشهر نفسه من العام الماضي.
وتصدرت الآلات والأجهزة والمعدات الكهربائية وأجزاؤها قائمة سلع الصادرات غير البترولية بنسبة 25.7% من الإجمالي، تلتها منتجات الصناعات الكيماوية بنسبة 22.0%. في حين جاءت الآلات والأجهزة والمعدات الكهربائية وأجزاؤها في المرتبة الأولى بين الواردات بنسبة 30.5%. 
وبيّنت النشرة أن جمهورية الصين الشعبية هي الشريك التجاري الرئيس للمملكة، حيث استحوذت على 14.4% من إجمالي الصادرات و28.2% من إجمالي الواردات في سبتمبر 2025م.
من جانب آخر كشفت نتائج نشرة التجارة الدولية خلال الربع الثالث من عام 2025م عن استمرار نمو الصادرات غير البترولية بنسبة 19.4%، مقارنة بالربع المماثل من عام 2024م، بينما انخفضت الصادرات الوطنية غير البترولية بنسبة 0.4%، فيما ارتفعت قيمة السلع المعاد تصديرها بنسبة 69.6%.
في حين سجَّلت الصادرات السلعية الكلية ارتفاعًا بنسبة 9.5% مقارنةً بالربع الثالث من عام 2024م، كما ارتفعت الصادرات البترولية بنسبة 5.5%، بينما انخفضت نسبة الصادرات البترولية من مجموع الصادرات الكلي من 71.1% في الربع الثالث 2024م إلى 68.5% في الربع الثالث 2025م.
أما الواردات السلعية فقد ارتفعت بنسبة 7.5% خلال الربع الثالث من عام 2025م مقارنةً بالفترة ذاتها من العام الماضي، كما ارتفع الفائض في الميزان التجاري بنسبة 17.2%. هذا وقد ارتفعت نسبة الصادرات غير البترولية إلى الواردات حيث بلغت 40.3% مقابل 36.3% في الربع الثالث من عام 2024م.
وتصدرت الآلات والأجهزة والمعدات الكهربائية وأجزاؤها قائمة الصادرات غير البترولية بنسبة 26.9% من الإجمالي، تلتها منتجات الصناعات الكيماوية بنسبة 21.4%، في حين جاءت الآلات والأجهزة والمعدات الكهربائية وأجزاؤها كأكبر السلع المستوردة بنسبة 30.0%.
وقد بيّنت النشرة أن جمهورية الصين الشعبية كانت هي الشريك التجاري الرئيس للمملكة في الربع الثالث من عام 2025م، حيث استحوذت على 14.9% من إجمالي الصادرات و27.6% من إجمالي الواردات في هذه الفترة.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) launched the “Road to Riyadh” program as part of the international preparations for the Kingdom’s hosting of the 6th UN World Data Forum, scheduled to take place in Riyadh in 9 -12 November 2026. The program’s first activities commenced on October 20, alongside the Second Statistical Forum for Universities and Statistical Associations in Jeddah, which coincided with World Statistics Day.
The program aims to enhance global awareness of the Kingdom’s pioneering role in the fields of data and statistics, and to highlight its efforts in leading digital transformation and developing the statistical ecosystem in support of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It also aligns with the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030 to build a knowledge-based economy driven by statistical data in collaboration with experts, institutions, and statistical agencies from around the world, contributing to knowledge exchange and the strengthening of international partnerships in the field of data and statistical indicators.
The “Road to Riyadh” activities include in-person and virtual sessions, seminars, and workshops held in several cities across the Kingdom. These events will take place throughout the year and will continue until the Second Saudi Forum for Statistics on November 8. Followed by the 6th United Nations World Data Forum, scheduled for 9–12 November 2026.
It is noteworthy that the “Road to Riyadh” program forms part of the General Authority for Statistics’ ongoing efforts to strengthen the Kingdom’s position in the statistical field and builds upon the achievements it has made in recent years, which have contributed to the Kingdom’s progress in multiple international indicators. GASTAT has also made the full program available on its official website.
 

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Agricultural Statistics Publication 2024 results. According to the results, the total quantity of date production in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reached approximately 1,923 thousand tons in 2024, marking an increase of 1% compared to 2023, while the total number of palm trees exceeded 37.6 million, of which more than 32 million were fruitful trees. The results also indicated that total grain production reached 1,651 thousand tons in 2024, with wheat accounting for 71.9% of total cereal production at nearly 1,187 thousand tons, recording a decrease of 9.7% compared to 2023.
The results indicated that the cultivated area of open-field vegetables reached 89.7 thousand hectares, with a production volume of 2,745 thousand tons in 2024, marking an increase of 8.4% compared to 2023. Potatoes led in production volume at 624 thousand tons, followed by watermelon at approximately 612 thousand tons. The protected vegetable production reached 797 thousand tons in 2024, an increase of 10.6% compared to 2023, with the cultivated area covering 7.8 thousand hectares. The number of greenhouses planted with vegetables exceeded 121 thousand. Tomatoes led in production volume at 329 thousand tons, followed by cucumbers at over 232 thousand tons.
The publication further shows that the total area of organic agriculture in the Kingdom reached 24.1 thousand hectares in 2024. The area of organic and transitional farming for permanent crops (excluding palm trees) accounted for 12.5 thousand hectares, representing 52% of the total organic and transitional area. This was followed by organic and transitional farming for palm trees, which covered approximately 6.2 thousand hectares.
Total production of organic crops reached 98.3 thousand tons, marking an increase of 3% compared to 2023. Meanwhile, total imports of agricultural crops in the Kingdom reached 18,762 thousand tons in 2024, an increase of 10.8% compared to 2023, with grains accounting for the largest share at 72.1% of total imports. Total agricultural crop amounted to 506 thousand tons, representing an increase of 13% compared to 2023. Additionally, exports of fruits and edible nuts represented 72.1% of total agricultural crop exports in 2024.
 

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Mineral Resources Statistics 2024 publication, which shows the latest developments in the mining and minerals sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The results indicated that the total number of discovered mineralization sites in the Kingdom reached 5,651 sites. Non-metallic minerals accounted for the largest share at 54.1% with 3,058 sites, followed by metallic minerals at 42.9% with 2,423 sites, while sites containing both metallic and non-metallic minerals accounted for 3.0% with170 sites.
The publication indicated that the number of issued mining licenses increased from 1,985 licenses in 2016 to 2,401 licenses in 2024, recording a cumulative growth of 21% during the 2016–2024 period. Building materials quarry licenses accounted for the largest group in 2024 with 1,481 licenses, followed by exploration licenses with 642 licenses, then exploitation licenses, which include building materials, mining, and quarrying with 215 licenses, while the number of reconnaissance licenses reached 41 licenses and surplus mineral ores reached 22.
Regarding the foreign trade of minerals, aluminum exports reached 283 thousand tons, accounting for 62.9% of the total aluminum trade flow, compared to imports, which amounted to 167 thousand tons at 37.1%. Lead exports recorded around 59 thousand tons, representing 93.7% of its total trade flow, while imports reached about 4,000 tons at 6.3%. As for zinc, its trade relied almost entirely on imports, which reached 88 thousand tons at more than 99.9%, while its exports did not exceed 6 tons. Furthermore, the trade movement of nickel was limited exclusively to imports, totaling 407 tons (100%).
The results further showed an increase in the Kingdom’s exports of phosphate fertilizers in 2024 to 5.7 million tons, compared to 5.4 million tons in the previous year, recording a growth of 4.6%. In contrast, imports of phosphate fertilizers reached 66.2 thousand tons in 2024, a decrease of 51.7% compared to 2023.
It is noteworthy that the 2024 Mineral Resources Statistics publication is the first edition issued by GASTAT in this field. Its data cover the number of discovered mineralization sites, issued mining licenses, and imports and exports of minerals and their products, based on data from GASTAT, in addition to administrative records from the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources and the National Geological Database of the Saudi Geological Survey, within a time series covering the 2021–2024 period.
 

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released GCC Market Indicators Report for 2024 results. The report is important as it supports the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, thereby reinforcing GCC’s objectives of promoting cooperation and integration in economic, social, and legislative fields. The report’s results showed an increase of 5.83% in the entry of GCC citizens into the Kingdom compared to 2023, with the total number of entrants reaching approximately 8.8 million, while the number of departures also reached 8.8 million.
The results indicated that the number of GCC-national students enrolled in public higher education institutions reached 988, while the total number of students in general education amounted to 5,036, reflecting the participation of GCC citizens at various educational levels within the Kingdom. The number of companies whose shares GCC citizens are allowed to trade in the Kingdom reached 247, corresponding to the total number of joint-stock companies in the Saudi stock market, with a total capital estimated at approximately 850 billion Saudi riyals, reflecting the full openness of the Saudi stock market to GCC citizens.
It is noteworthy that the GCC Market Indicators for 2024 results are based on administrative records issued by national authorities in the Kingdom, including the Ministries of Education, Health, Justice, Human Resources and Social Development, the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul), and the Saudi Central Bank. These data were collected and analyzed using precise methodologies and high-quality standards to ensure the reliability of the indicators and to support joint economic policies among the GCC countries.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has launched a new service through its Microdata Center aimed at providing precise statistical data and information. This service is designed to empower decision-makers, policymakers in government and private sectors, academics, and individuals interested in statistical matters to utilize data for purposes such as data analysis, building data models, identifying opportunities, and addressing future challenges in economic and social activities. The service also contributes to supporting comprehensive and sustainable development goals.
GASTAT clarified that the Microdata Center will provide data in a new manner by enabling access to various types of data, including structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data, across multiple fields. The center will facilitate data analysis through both descriptive and predictive methods, enhancing GASTAT’s role as a provider of official statistics. It aims to supply researchers with high-quality, accurate data, meet the increasing demand for data, and support the development of strategies, development plans, and performance programs and indicators. This is achieved through an integrated framework with all relevant government entities to provide precise data that assess various dimensions and contribute to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics, emphasized that GASTAT’s statistical work is a cornerstone in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. It promotes the principle of transparency by granting specialists and stakeholders access to statistical data while preserving the privacy of data providers, whether individuals or governmental and private entities. He noted that the statistics provided by GASTAT are among the most important resources relied upon in studies and analyses. These help in measuring progress and making strategic decisions that align with the goals of national visions and sustainable development. Dr. Aldossari also stressed the importance of collaboration with relevant entities to enhance performance in statistical data exchange and to continue implementing the strategic statistical plan, ensuring the accuracy and quality of the data provided by the Microdata Center.
Dr. Aldossari added: "Through continuous institutional planning and development, we have enhanced the services provided by the Microdata Center as part of the comprehensive transformation the authority is undergoing across all areas. This aims to achieve the highest standards of quality in serving various sectors and individuals."
It is noteworthy that all the information and data provided by the Microdata Center to public and private sectors, individuals, and international organizations are kept strictly confidential and protected, ensuring their use is strictly for statistical purposes. The services of the center can be accessed by submitting a visit request through the link https://www.stats.gov.sa/micro-data or by contacting its representatives via the unified statistical phone number 199009 or through the customer support email info@stats.gov.sa.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released today the real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) results for Q3 of 2025. Real GDP grew by 4.8% compared with the same period in 2024. This increase is attributed to growth across all major economic activities, with oil activities rising by 8.3%, non-oil activities by 4.3%, and government activities by 1.4% year-on-year, according to the results. 
They also showed that seasonally adjusted real GDP grew by 1.4% compared with Q2 of 2025. Oil activities recorded a 3.3% increase, non-oil activities grew by 0.6%, and government activities expanded by 1.1% quarter-on-quarter.
It is worth noting that most economic activities achieved positive annual growth rates. Petroleum refining activities recorded the highest growth during Q3 2025, reaching 11.9% year-on-year and 3.9% quarter-on-quarter.
 

GASTAT hosted the 13th meeting of the GCC Permanent Committee for Statistical Work at its headquarters in Riyadh. The meeting was attended by President of GASTAT, Fahad Aldossari; Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center in the UAE, Hanan Ahli ; CEO of the Information and eGovernment Authority in Bahrain, Mohammed Al-Qaed; CEO of the National Center for Statistics and Information in Oman, Dr. Khalifa Al-Barwani; Director of the National Center for Statistics in Qatar, Ahmed Al-Obaidly;  Director General of the Central Statistical Bureau in Kuwait, Wafaa Al-Yahya and Director General of GCC Statistical Centre, Intisar Al-Wahaibi.

During the opening discussion, the President of GASTAT expressed Saudi Arabia’s appreciation for the role played by the GCC-STAT in coordinating efforts and strengthening Gulf integration in the statistical field. He emphasized the importance of unifying statistical efforts across GCC and developing joint work mechanisms to keep pace with international developments. He also affirmed GASTAT’s commitment to continuing its collaboration with GCC statistical offices to achieve an integrated statistical system aligned with the development visions and programs of the GCC countries. He noted that statistical integration among GCC member states is a fundamental pillar for advancing economic and social development and enhancing the region’s presence in international reports and indices.
The meeting discussed most notable statistical developments and reviewed ways to strengthen cooperation and integration in various statistical domains in support of decision-makers and the requirements of sustainable development. The meeting also addressed the progress of implementing joint GCC statistical initiatives and projects and discussed the strategic plan for joint GCC statistical work for the period 2026–2030.
The meeting concluded with the issuance of several recommendations aimed at strengthening the exchange of expertise and best practices and advancing the statistical infrastructure across the GCC. The recommendations also called for expanding joint programs to build national capacities in the statistical field.
These regular meetings form a key element of the GCC countries’ ongoing efforts to strengthen the framework of joint statistical work and improve its tools to support development strategies and elevate the region’s standing in the global statistical domain, keeping pace with rapidly evolving global changes.
 

The annual inflation rate of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Saudi Arabia reached 1.9% in November 2025, compared with November 2024, recording relative stability on a monthly basis at 0.1% compared with October 2025.
Meanwhile, the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) recorded an annual increase of 2.3% in November 2025, compared with the same month in 2024, while the index recorded a monthly decline of 0.3% compared with October 2025.
It is noteworthy that CPI reflects changes in the prices paid by consumers for a fixed basket of 582 items, while WPI reflects movements in the prices of goods at the pre-retail stage for a fixed basket of 343 items.
 

Represented by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), Saudi Arabia will host the 13th meeting of the Permanent Committee for Statistical Work on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at GASTAT’s headquarters in Riyadh. It will bring together heads and directors of GCC statistical offices, GCC-STAT, as well as several experts and specialists in the statistics field.
This meeting is part of the ongoing GCC’s efforts to strengthen statistical cooperation and develop national systems in line with international standards. It serves as a key platform for discussing ways to harmonize statistical policies and exchange expertise among national offices, contributing to informed decision-making and the formulation of development policies.
Alongside the meeting, a panel discussion titled “International Statistical Standards and the Role of GCC Statistical Offices in Development and Implementation” will take place as part of “Road to Riyadh” organized by GASTAT in preparation for hosting the 6th UNWDF from November 9-12, 2026. They aim to strengthen collaboration and knowledge exchange among data and statistical transformation specialists at both regional and international levels, while showcasing the latest global practices and trends in this vital sector. These events also serve as a platform to highlight the Kingdom’s leadership in statistical work and its significant advancements in the field, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Today, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) organized a panel discussion titled “International Statistical Standards and the Role of GCC Statistical Offices in Development and Implementation” as part of “Road to Riyadh”. The discussion coincided with the Kingdom hosting the 13th meeting of the Permanent Committee for Statistical Work at GASTAT’s headquarters in Riyadh.
The discussion was attended by the President of GASTAT, Fahad Aldossari; CEO of the National Center for Statistics and Information in Oman, Dr. Khalifa Al-Barwani; CEO of the Information and eGovernment Authority in Bahrain, Mohammed Al-Qaed; Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center in the UAE, Hanan Ahli, and Director of the National Center for Statistics in Qatar, Ahmed Al-Obaidly. The dialogue was moderated by Intisar Wahaibi, Director General of GCC Statistical Centre.
 It is noteworthy that this discussion is part of the “Road to Riyadh” organized by the GASTAT, as part of Saudi Arabia’s preparations to host the 6th UNWDF in Riyadh in November 2026. It aims to promote knowledge exchange, highlight developments in the statistical sector at both regional and international levels, and showcase the Kingdom’s advancements in statistics as it keeps pace with rapidly evolving global trends.
 

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Food Security Statistics 2024 results, which showed an increase in self-sufficiency ratios for several plant and animal-based food products compared to 2023. For animal-based food products, the results showed that the self-sufficiency ratio for shrimp reached 149% followed by 131% for dairy products, and 103% for table eggs. The results also indicated that self-sufficiency ratios for vegetables reached high levels, with 105% for eggplant, 102% for okra, 101% for cucumbers, and 100% for zucchini. Meanwhile, dates recorded the highest self-sufficiency ratio among fruits at 121%, followed by figs with a self-sufficiency ratio of 99%
Regarding the increases in self-sufficiency ratios achieved by certain food products in 2024 compared to 2023, self-sufficiency in onions rose by 41.2% followed by tomatoes with 9.2% while fish recorded an increase of 8.2% and poultry self-sufficiency increased by 1.4% In addition, the Food Security Statistics 2024 publication results showed that rice was the highest among plant products in the Saudi Arabia, reaching 52 kg per capita per year, followed by dates at 36 kg per year. For vegetables, per capita share per year from the total available was 20.50 kg for onions, and 19.56 kg for tomatoes. As for animal products, the results indicated that the per capita share of milk was 70.3 liters per year. For poultry meat, the per capita share reached 46.9 kilograms per year, while table eggs averaged 235 eggs per person per year. 
It is noteworthy that these results are based on data from field surveys conducted by GASTAT, in addition to administrative records from the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, the General Food Security Authority (GFSA), and the Agricultural Development Fund. The data were collected and analyzed using precise methodologies and high-quality standards to ensure the reliability of the indicators and to support national policies in the field of food security.
 

The Warehousing and Logistics Statistics 2024 results showed an increase in the number of activated logistics centers in Saudi Arabia to 23 centers, with a total area of 34.6 million square meters, compared with 22 centers in 2023.
Makkah Region recorded the largest total area, at 20.4 million square meters, distributed across six logistics centers.
The total number of licensed commercial warehouses reached 12,234 with a combined area exceeding 22 million square meters, while the number of construction warehouses stood at 1,189, covering an area of 7.5 million square meters. Data also showed that freight volumes through maritime transportation amounted to 331.3 million tons, compared with 25.7 million tons through road ports, while railway transportation reached 15.6 million tons, and 1.2 million tons through air transportation.
Regarding delivery activity, Warehousing and Logistics Statistics 2024 indicated that the number of orders fulfilled exceeded 290 million, marking an increase of 27.2% The average delivery time decreased from 45 to 35 minutes, while the number of active Saudi drivers in this sector rose to 140,000, and non-Saudi drivers reached 302,000.
Meanwhile, the customs clearance activity witnessed an increase in valid licenses, reaching 1,179 licenses at maritime ports, 465 licenses at road ports, and 722 licenses at airports by the end of 2024.
It is noteworthy that the Warehousing and Logistics Statistics are based on administrative records from several government and private entities. This annual publication provides statistics and indicators on the warehousing and logistics sector, and is used for local, regional, and international comparisons, as well as for conducting studies and research in the field of warehousing and logistics.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) will organize, next Tuesday, 23 December, the first quarterly virtual panel discussion as part of Road to Riyadh events. The discussion, titled “Saudi statistical data ... a pivotal role in supporting national development”, aims to highlight GASTAT’s experiences and best practices in fulfilling its mandate, promote knowledge exchange within the statistical community, and explore future development opportunities to strengthen the role of statistics in supporting economic, environmental, and social development. The discussion will also discuss future aspirations for the work of statistical offices and ways to leverage advanced technologies.

In this context, GASTAT has invited professionals and those interested in statistical work to attend the Road to Riyadh events, which will be livestreamed via GASTAT’s official social media platforms and will target both local and international audiences. GASTAT has also made all Road to Riyadh events available through its official electronic portal.

It is worth noting that these events were launched as part of Saudi Arabia’s preparations to host the Sixth United Nations World Data Forum (UNWDF) in 2026, aiming to showcase Saudi Arabia’s statistical advancement and comprehensive digital transformation in the field of statistical data. The events will continue until the convening of the Second Saudi Statistical Forum on 8 November, ahead of UNWDF, scheduled to take place from 9 to 12 November 2026.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), achieved a new milestone by continuing its advancement in the Statistical Performance Indicator (SPI) issued by the World Bank since the data update 2020. Saudi Arabia’s score rose to 83.3% in 2024, compared with 81.5% in 2023, maintaining its 1st place ranking in the Arab region and advancing three positions among G20 countries, moving up 11th place from the 14th place ranking as published last year. Saudi Arabia further advanced four global places, ranking 51st place out of 188 countries. This accomplishment stems from the Kingdom’s ongoing statistical development, its adoption of a digital transformation approach within the national statistical ecosystem, and its efforts in capacity-building, promoting innovation, strengthening transparency, and facilitating the monitoring of progress toward SDGs.
The World Bank had announced on its official website the results of the SPI assessment 2024, which evaluated five main pillars comprising 51 indicators covering: data use, data services, data products, data sources, and data infrastructure. Saudi Arabia ranked 6th among G20 countries, scoring 93.2% in the second pillar related to data services. It was also ranked 7th among G20 countries in the fourth pillar concerning data sources and advanced to 17th place globally, compared to 36th place as published last year. Saudi Arabia further achieved advanced results by being placed within the top 20% of countries in three pillars: Data services, Data sources, and Data infrastructure.
For his part, GASTAT President, Fahad Al-Dossari, extended his congratulations to the wise leadership on this international achievement, expressing his appreciation for the support and attention GASTAT continues to receive. Affirming that this sustained support has contributed to enhancing the quality and efficiency of statistical sector operations and outputs, as well as its significant development and alignment with global advancements and rapid changes in this field, reflecting the advancement of the Saudi statistical ecosystem.
It is noteworthy that GASTAT continues its efforts to implement comprehensive statistical transformation, aimed at developing the infrastructure for field and digital surveys and enhancing integration with various governmental, private, and non-profit entities. In achieving this transformation, GASTAT relies on innovation and the use of advanced technologies in data collection and analysis, contributing to improving the quality of statistical outputs and enabling decision-makers to access accurate data that supports the achievement of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 targets. Furthermore, GASTAT continues its pursuit of building national capabilities and adopting the best global practices and methodologies to ensure the sustainability of statistical development and to keep pace with the rapid global changes in the field of statistics.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) and Najran University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening institutional collaboration and integrating efforts in statistics, research, and statistical studies. The MoU was signed during a visit by a GASTAT delegation to Najran Region, where the delegation also met with H.R.H. the Governor of Najran Region and several officials from relevant entities.
The MoU was signed by GASTAT President, Fahad Aldossari, and Najran University President ‏Prof. Abdulrahman Alkhedhairi‏. It seeks to enhance cooperation between the two parties through the exchange of expertise and knowledge transfer, the establishment of a general framework for joint activities and tasks, and the development of institutional capabilities, in support of shared goals and interests.
The cooperation covers the exchange of technical and knowledge-based expertise in areas of mutual interest, joint research, studies, and publications, and enabling staff from both sides to participate in professional development programs, seminars, scientific conferences, and workshops. It also includes support for innovation, the development of joint initiatives, and the application of best practices in research and statistical studies. In addition, the MoU provides cooperative training opportunities for Najran University graduates in line with GASTAT policies, as well as collaboration in raising awareness of statistical work and data analysis.
This MoU reflects GASTAT’s ongoing efforts to expand its partnerships with public and private sector entities, contributing to the advancement of statistical work and the achievement of national objectives.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) is participating alongside the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in celebrating Gulf Statistics Day, held annually on 24 December. This year’s celebration comes under the theme “Unified Data for Shared Vision”, reflecting the commitment of GCC statistical ecosystems to advancing statistical work and enhancing its role in supporting comprehensive development plans and achieving the objectives of national visions across the Council’s member states.
This year’s celebration continues the GCC countries’ efforts to build advanced statistical data ecosystems that provide accurate and harmonized statistics, enhancing the effectiveness of public policies, and supporting decision-making to meet sustainable development objectives. Gulf Statistics Day serves as an annual occasion to highlight the importance of the statistical sector and its pivotal role in shaping the developmental future of the GCC countries, as well as to raise public awareness of the value of statistical data as a key element in development, growth, and progress.
In this context, the President of GASTAT, Fahad Aldossari, emphasized that Gulf Statistics Day underscores the GCC countries’ commitment to enhancing statistical integration. He noted that harmonizing statistical data and unifying production methodologies constitute a fundamental pillar for achieving a shared vision based on a strong economy and sustainable development, in partnership with GCC statistical ecosystems, alongside the development of national transformation plans and modern methodologies for data production.
It is noteworthy that during its 141st session, held in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, on November 24, 2016, the GCC Ministerial Council approved the designation of an annual Gulf Statistics Day. The initiative aims to strengthen community partnerships with statistical authorities, highlight the vital role of statistics in supporting sustainable development, and underscore the strategic role of the Gulf data system in shaping policies and guiding developmental decision-making across the region.
 

President of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), Fahad Aldossari, met today with Chairman of Najran Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Bader Hamod Almojel, to discuss potential cooperation between the two parties in exchange of statistical data and information. The meeting took place during a visit by a GASTAT delegation to the region.
The discussion focused on the importance of collaboration in their respective fields, leveraging accurate statistical indicators to support development plans, and improving the efficiency of commercial and industrial projects in the region, in line with the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
This meeting reflects GASTAT’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its strategic partnerships with entities and institutions across all sectors, utilizing its statistical outputs to support national initiatives and objectives and advance development across various regions of Saudi Arabia.