GASTAT: Inflation in Saudi Arabia reaches 2.2% in October 2025

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.
 

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 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.
 

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.
 

On behalf of His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, His Highness Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, Governor of Jeddah, inaugurated today the Second Statistical Forum for Universities and Statistical Associations, organized by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) at the Conference Center of the University of Jeddah. The event brought together a distinguished group of experts, specialists, representatives of scientific associations, and academics and researchers in the fields of statistics and data-related sciences.
Upon His Highness’s arrival, the national anthem was played, followed by a recitation from the Holy Qur’an. Then, the President of GASTAT, Fahad Aldossary, delivered a speech emphasizing the vital role of statistics in the national development journey. He noted that the forum serves as a distinguished scientific platform for the exchange of experiences and best practices between academic and professional institutions, contributing to the advancement of research and academic programs, statistical methodologies, and the promotion of statistical innovation through the use of modern technologies and strategic partnerships.
In his speech, Aldossary announced the launch of the “Road to Riyadh” program, which represents the preparatory phase for the Kingdom’s hosting of the Sixth United Nations World Data Forum 2026, scheduled to be held in Riyadh in November 2026. The program aims to raise global awareness of the Kingdom’s pioneering role in the field of statistics and to highlight its efforts in leading digital transformation and developing the statistical ecosystem to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030 toward building a knowledge-based, data-driven economy.

The program will span a full year leading up to the forum and will include workshops, events, and local, regional, and international panel sessions, with the participation of leading experts, institutions, and statistical bodies from around the world. It will also continue beyond the conclusion of the forum to ensure the sustainability of its outcomes, maximize its impact, and solidify its achievements in the long term.
At the conclusion of his speech, Aldossary also announced the launch of the second cycle of the Innovation Lab projects, following the positive results achieved in the first cycle. He emphasized the lab’s role in enabling researchers and specialists to develop innovative statistical projects and solutions that align with the ongoing developments in the statistical community, meet the requirements of Saudi Vision 2030, and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He also invited researchers and statisticians to apply and participate in this new cycle.
His Highness witnessed the signing of six memoranda of cooperation between GASTAT and the following institutions: King Abdulaziz University, Taif University, King Khalid University, Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University, the Islamic University of Madinah, and the Saudi Statistical Association.
These cooperation agreements aim to strengthen collaboration, enhance coordination, and integrate efforts within the scope of all parties’ expertise. They also establish an institutional framework for shared activities and tasks, and support the development of institutional capacities in areas of mutual interest. On this occasion, His Highness received a commemorative gift.
This forum comes as part of GASTAT’s ongoing efforts to foster integration with universities and statistical associations, expand strategic and research partnerships, and consolidate the Kingdom’s advanced position in the fields of data, statistics, and indicators. It also reaffirms the Kingdom’s role as a regional and international statistical reference, contributing to measuring progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals and supporting the realization of Saudi Vision 2030.
Following the opening ceremony, the forum’s sessions commenced with a main panel discussion titled “The Role of Universities in Shaping the Future of Statistical Innovation.” The session highlighted the role of universities in developing innovative statistical methodologies, building national capacities, and aligning educational outcomes with sustainable development needs.
The program also featured a series of panel sessions that addressed key topics, including the role of statistics in community development, modern methodologies for improving data quality, ethics in statistical work and data privacy, and best practices of statistical offices in providing data to users.
It is worth noting that the first edition of the forum, organized by GASTAT in 2024, witnessed notable attendance, significant scientific and research contributions, and recommendations that yielded tangible results in the field of statistical work. This year’s edition coincides with the World Statistics Day 2025, observed on October 20 under the theme “Statistics for Sustainable Opportunities.” The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia joins the global community in celebrating this occasion, which is held every five years, reaffirming the importance of official statistics in supporting development and informed decision-making.

 General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Household Energy Statistics 2024 results, which showed that total electricity consumption in the residential sector across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reached 161,207 gigawatt-hours (GWh). The results indicated that 100% of the population benefits from electricity services. Results further showed that 86.4% of households rely on gas for cooking, while 13.4% use electricity. The majority depend on gas cylinders at 97%, while 2.7% use gas tanks. Furthermore, statistics indicated that most households use iron gas cylinders at 93.9%, while the share of households using fiber cylinders reached 5.6%.
In terms of energy efficiency, the results indicated that 91.5% of households showed a significant intrest in conserving electricity, while 91.9% followed energy-saving guidelines when using electrical appliances. Meanwhile, 56.6% of households expressed willingness to replace old appliances with more energy-efficient ones, and 40.8% expressed interest in using solar energy as a source of power in their homes.
It is noteworthy that these results are based on data collected through field and phone surveys conducted by GASTAT, in addition to administrative records provided by the Ministry of Energy, ensuring the quality and accuracy of the data to support national policies related to household energy.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Household Environment Statistics 2024 results, which showed that most households in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have access to basic drinking water services, accounting around 100%. The results also indicated that 99.8% of households benefit from safely managed drinking water services. The results further showed that bottled water is the main source of drinking water at 47.3%, followed by public network water at 36.5%, whereas tanker water percentage was 15.8% 
The statistics also showed that 99.9% of households benefit from basic sanitation services, while safely managed sanitation services reached 89.5%. Urban areas recorded a coverage rate of 93.7%, compared to 59.3% in rural areas. In terms of waste management, the results indicated that 99.9% of households benefit from the safe management of basic waste collection services. while 43.9% of households dispose waste inside the home on a daily basis.
It is noteworthy that these results are based on data from field surveys conducted by GASTAT, in addition to administrative records provided by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, ensuring the quality and accuracy of the data to support national policies and achieve sustainability goals.
 

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.
 

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.
 

 General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Umrah statistics results for Q2 of 2025, showing that the total number of Umrah performers, both internal and external, reached 5,443,393. The results showed that 3,352,506 were males (61.6%) and 2,090,887 were females (38.4%). The results further showed that non-Saudis who performed Umrah during this period totaled 1,993,274 representing (48.4%). The number of external Umrah performers reached 1,324,418, including 653,513 males (49.3%) and 670,905 females (50.7%).  In terms of entry ports, the statistics showed that 71.6% of external Umrah performers entered through airports, while 28.2% arrived through land ports, and 0.2% arrived through seaports.
It is noteworthy that Umrah statistics are issued periodically and are among the key statistical products that provide accurate data on the numbers of internal and external Umrah performers and visitors. These statistics serve as a reliable reference to support policies and plans related to Umrah and visitor services in Saudi Arabia.
 

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Livestock Statistics 2024 results, showing that Saudi Arabia’s broiler chicken production reached 1.3 million tons, marking an increase of 12.9% compared to 2023. Riyadh Region led production with a total of 359.7 thousand tons, followed by Hail Region with 295 thousand tons and Qassim Region with 200 thousand tons. The results further showed that table egg production exceeded 8.4 billion eggs, up 6.4% from 2023. Riyadh Region ranked first with approximately 3.2 billion eggs, followed by Makkah Region with 1.5 billion eggs and the Eastern Region with about 1.1 billion eggs.
Regarding raw milk production in specialized cattle projects, statistics recorded a total output of approximately 2.7 billion liters in 2024, representing a decrease of 3.5% compared to 2023. Riyadh Region ranked first with 1.6 billion liters, followed by the Eastern Region with 1.1 billion liters. The number of dairy cows in these projects reached approximately 233 thousand head. Results also showed that the number of sheep in the Kingdom exceeded 22 million heads in 2024, marking a slight increase of 0.25% compared to 2023. In addition, the number of goats reached approximately 7.3 million heads, reflecting a decrease of 1%, while the number of camels increased to more than 2.24 million heads, an increase of 1%, with Riyadh Region accounting for 29.4% of the total number of camels.
Statistics also indicated that the value of loans granted to livestock projects exceeded SAR 2 billion during 2024, with layer chicken projects accounting for the largest share at 31% of the total loans, followed by broiler chicken projects at 22%.
It is noteworthy that the Livestock Statistics publication is issued annually and provides up-to-date data on livestock and poultry numbers, animal production, and loans granted to projects, and is considered an important reference to support agricultural and development policies in the Kingdom.
 

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.
 

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Early Childhood Development and Child Well-Being Statistics results for 2025. The results show that 82.4% of children aged 24–59 months are on track in the health, learning, and psychosocial well-being domains according to the Early Childhood Development Index (ECDI2030). Also, 83.2% of females are on track compared to 81.6% of males. Data further shows that 90.0% of children aged 36–59 months live in a positive and stimulating home environment for learning, with 90.1% among females and 89.8% among males.
Regarding children’s book ownership, 31.0% of children under five own one to two books, while 9.2% own three or more books. Additionally, 17.3% of children aged 36–59 months are enrolled in an early childhood education program, with enrollment at 18.2% for females and 16.5% for males. The participation rate in organized learning for five-year-olds reached 73.0%, with 74.5% for females and 71.5% for males. Survey results also show that 35.1% of children aged 5–7 years use digital devices for one to two hours daily, while 28.8% use them for less than one hour per day.
Early Childhood Development and Child Well-Being Statistics are based on data from the 2025 Maternal and Child Health Survey and administrative records from the Ministry of Education for the 2024–2025 school year. These indicators are among the most important measures reflecting the state of early childhood development in the Kingdom and support national policies aimed at improving the quality of life for young children.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) today released the results of the Research and Development (R&D) Statistics for 2024, which showed a notable growth in expenditure, increasing by 30.4% compared to 2023. The total expenditure on R&D reached approximately SAR 29.48 billion.
The Business sector ranked first, accounting for 40.3% of the total expenditure, followed by the Government sector at 40.2%, and then the Higher Education sector at 19.5%. Furthermore, the number of R&D workers increased by 14.7%, reaching 56,593 compared to the previous year.
It is worth noting that R&D statistics are issued annually and are among the most prominent statistics that provide economic indicators on the volume of expenditure and the number of workers and researchers in this field. They serve as a reliable reference to support national policies and enhance innovation and competitiveness in the Kingdom.

 The annual inflation rate of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reached 2.2% in October 2025 compared to the same period of the previous year (October 2024). Meanwhile, the monthly inflation rate recorded 0.3% compared to September 2025.
In the same context, the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in the Kingdom reached 2.9% during October 2025, compared to the same period in 2024. Meanwhile, the WPI recorded 0.5% in October 2025 compared to September 2025.
It is worth noting that the CPI reflects changes in prices paid by consumers for a fixed basket of goods and services consisting of 582 items,  while the WPI reflects the price movements of goods at the pre-retail stage for a fixed basket of goods consisting of 343 items.
 

The United Nations High-Level Group for Partnership, Coordination and Capacity-Building for Statistics for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (HLG-PCCB) continued the second day of its 40th meeting at the headquarters of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) in Riyadh. The meeting brings together heads of national statistical offices and representatives of regional and international statistical organizations that are members of the Group.
The discussions focus on ways to enhance integration among international statistical systems, strengthen national capacities to produce accurate and reliable data, and explore prospects for using innovative statistical data to support decision-making and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
In a related event, GASTAT organized a panel discussion titled “Utilizing Advanced Technologies and Methodologies to Enhance Statistical Organizations and Enable Sustainable Development.” The session was held in conjunction with the aforementioned meeting as part of the “Road to Riyadh” program. It featured the participation of GASTAT’s President, Fahad Aldossari, Atanas Atanasov, President of the National Statistical Institute of Bulgaria- Benjamin Rothen, Ambassador and Head of the International and National Affairs Unit at the Federal Statistical Office- Ola Awad, President of the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics- Jianhong Ruan, Deputy Commissioner at the National Bureau of Statistics of China- Tang Hsio Chin, Director of Policy and Planning at the Department of Statistics in Singapore- and Johannes Jütting, Executive Head of the PARIS21 Initiative.
In his opening remarks, GASTAT’s President highlighted Saudi Arabia’s upcoming hosting of the Sixth United Nations World Data Forum in November 2026.  He outlined the ongoing preparations through the launch of the “Road to Riyadh” program, a year-long initiative that includes a series of workshops and panel discussions at the local, regional, and international levels.
 
During the discussion, speakers explored the pivotal role of national statistical offices in advancing data methodologies and leveraging modern technologies to enhance the quality of statistics and support evidence-based decision-making.
Speakers highlighted that the rapid advancement of emerging technologies is contributing to the development of integrated digital data ecosystems capable of delivering timely and reliable indicators that support decision-making within national statistical systems. They emphasized the importance of fostering sustainable international cooperation among statistical organizations and building strategic partnerships that advance the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Such collaboration, they noted, enhances the production of accurate and trustworthy data, accelerates data delivery, improves quality and coverage, and promotes resource efficiency by reducing reliance on traditional survey methods.
They also stressed that strengthening the readiness of national statistical offices requires continued progress in developing clear regulatory frameworks for data governance, expanding the use of secure cloud-based solutions, and linking administrative records across key sectors such as health and labor markets. Additionally, adopting predictive analytics methodologies and producing synthetic data can help broaden data utilization while ensuring privacy and security, thereby driving tangible progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
It is noteworthy that GASTAT continues its preparations to host the Sixth United Nations World Data Forum in November 2026 through a series of initiatives organized under the “Road to Riyadh” program. The program aims to highlight Saudi Arabia’s statistical, developmental, and economic advancements, achieved through the application of international statistical standards and principles that have contributed to the Kingdom’s notable progress across multiple global statistical indicators.
 

The 40th meeting of UN’s HLG-PCCB for statistics for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development commenced today at the headquarters of GASTAT in Riyadh, with the participation of heads of national statistical offices and representatives of regional and international statistical organizations that are members of the Group.

Kingdom’s hosting of this major international meeting underscores the growing role of GASTAT in supporting global efforts to advance statistical data systems and enhance countries’ capabilities in the statistical domain. The meeting’s agenda includes discussions on enhancing integration across international statistical systems, developing national capacities for producing accurate and reliable statistical data, and exploring ways to expand the use of innovative statistical data.

GASTAT continues its preparations to host the 6th United Nations World Data Forum through the program "Road to Riyadh” which spans a full year before the date of the event. The program features a series of workshops and panel discussions at the local, regional, and international levels, with the participation of experts and statistical institutions from around the world. It aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, strengthen partnerships, and ensure the sustainability and long-term impact of the Forum’s outcomes, as it serves as a key platform for advancing global data and statistical systems.

It is worth noting that hosting the Forum in Riyadh carries significant importance, reflecting the Kingdom’s growing leadership in advancing statistical systems, fostering international partnerships in the data field, and embracing cutting-edge statistical innovations, technologies, and global best practices to support shared objectives at the local, regional, and international levels.
 

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Industrial Production Index (IPI) results for September 2025. The overall IPI recorded an increase of 9.3% compared to the same month of the previous year. In detail, compared with September 2024, the sub-index for mining and quarrying and the sub-index for manufacturing increased by 11.0% and 6.3%, respectively. The sub-index for electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply also recorded an increase of 12.6%, while the sub-index for water supply, sewage, waste management, and remediation activities increased by 9.2% Regarding the main economic activities, the index for oil activities increased by 10.1%, while the index for non-oil activities increased by 7.3%, compared with September 2024.
It is noteworthy that GASTAT publishes the IPI monthly. It 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, water supply, sewage and waste management, and remediation activities. 
 

GASTAT launches the first activities of the Road to Riyadh Program, which will run for a whole year ahead of hosting the Sixth United Nations World Data Forum in Riyadh in November 2026. The program features a series of workshops and panel discussions at local, regional, and international levels, with the participation of leading experts and statistical institutions from around the world. A panel discussion entitled “Utilizing advanced technologies and methodologies to enhance statistical systems and enable sustainable development” will be held on the sidelines of the 40th meeting of the High-Level Group for partnership, coordination, and capacity-building for statistics for the 2030 agenda for sustainable development (HLG-PCCB), hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at GASTAT’s headquarters on November, 10–11 2025.
The panel aims to enhance international cooperation, develop both national and international statistical systems, foster partnerships among national statistical offices, international organizations, private sector, and civil society to develop global data and statistical systems, and oversee the organization of the forum.
The panel, which will feature the participation of the President of GASTAT, Fahad Aldossari, will address the future of data and statistics, highlight the vital role of National Statistical Organizations (NSOs) in developing data collection and analysis methodologies, and explore modern technologies to enhance the outputs quality and support decision-making. It will also discuss the main challenges related to governance, skill building, and the ethical aspects associated with adopting technological solutions within statistical systems.
Several heads and officials from member statistical organizations and international organizations within the HLG-PCCB, including Saudi Arabia, Bulgaria, China, Singapore, Palestine, Switzerland, and PARIS21, will present the latest international experiences and best practices in statistical digital transformation and discuss the importance of international cooperation and building sustainable partnerships to strengthen national capacities and support the measurement of progress toward achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
It is noteworthy that the Road to Riyadh Program is part of GASTAT’s ongoing preparations to host the Sixth United Nations World Data Forum. The program aims to facilitate the exchange of expertise, strengthen partnerships, and showcase the statistical advancements achieved by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which have contributed to progress across several international indicators. It also seeks to ensure the sustainability of the forum’s outcomes and maximize their impact beyond its conclusion.
 

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), will host the 40th meeting of UN High-Level Group for Partnership, Coordination, and Capacity-Building for statistics related to the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda (HLG-PCCB). The meeting will take place on November 10–11  2025 at GASTAT’s headquarters in Riyadh, with the participation of committee members, including heads of national statistical offices and representatives of international and regional statistical organizations. This global event reflects the Kingdom’s growing leadership in supporting the international statistical system and advancing joint efforts to develop statistical capacity, contributing to monitoring progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and coordinating related initiatives among member states.
Hosting this meeting highlights the Kingdom’s leading role in the statistical field at the international level and its commitment to supporting global efforts to achieve the SDGs, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 to enhance knowledge exchange and strengthen national and international statistical infrastructures.
During the meeting, participants will explore ways to enhance integration among international statistical systems and develop national capacities to produce accurate and reliable data. Discussions will also address expanding the use of innovative data, adopting advanced statistical methodologies to support development and economic planning, examining strategies to strengthen national data ownership, and evaluating the role of the private sector in supporting statistical systems of member states. In addition, the meeting will review the 2026 workplan and prepare to present the group’s report to the UN Statistical Commission in the first quarter of the year.
It is worth noting that the HLG-PCCB was established by the UN Statistical Commission during its 46th session, with membership comprising heads of international and regional statistical organizations. The group’s work focuses on international cooperation to develop statistical systems, oversee the organization of the UN World Data Forum, and develop statistical data strategies by supporting countries in building statistical policies aligned with international standards