Methodology and Quality Update

Latest Update on Methodology and Quality

2025/12/15

Statistical Presentation

Data description

Non-profit Organizations Statistics present financial data that contribute to providing estimates and indicators related to non-profit organizations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They also aim to:
•    To identify the level of expenditure in the non-profit sector.
•    To provide data that contribute to identifying the contribution of the non-profit sector to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Data is also used to estimates:
•    The relative distribution of non-profit entities by the classification of non-profit organizations.
•    The relative distribution of employed persons by the classification of non-profit organizations. 
•    Total compensation of employees by the classification of non-profit organizations.
•    Total revenues by the classification of non-profit organizations.
•    Total expenditures by classification for non-profit Organization.
•    Gross fixed capital formation by the classification of non-profit organizations.

Classifications

The following classifications are applied in Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics.
International Classification of Non-Profit organizations (ICNPO):
It is the classification system recommended in the United Nations Handbook on Non-Profit Organizations in the System of National Accounts. It is a classification primarily based on the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC) and aims to provide more detailed information about the non-profit sector. It includes all entities defined as non-profit organizations and consists of 12 main activity categories:
•    Category 1: Culture and recreation.
•    Category 2: Education and research.
•    Category 3: Health
•    Category 4: Social services.
•    Category 5: Environment.
•    Category 6: Development and housing.
•    Category 7: Law, advocacy, and politics.
•    Category 8: Philanthropic intermediaries and voluntarism promotion 
•    Category 9: International.
•    Category 10: Religious.
•    Category 11: Business and professional associations, unions.
•    Category 12: Not elsewhere classified.

Statistical concepts and definitions

Terms and concepts of Non-profit Sector Organizations Statistics:
•    Non-Profit Organizations:
Legal or social entities established for the purpose of producing goods and services, but whose status does not allow them to be a source of income, profit, or any other financial gain for the units that create, control, or fund them; in other words, profits are not distributed to stakeholders.
•    Number of employees:
The total number of employed individuals in the target year.
•    Compensation of Employees:
The total salaries and wages, both in cash and in kind, owed to employees of the organization in exchange for the work they perform during the accounting period. This includes overtime pay, vacation allowances, bonuses, commissions, tips, and the employer's contribution to social insurance.
•    Total revenue:
All revenues generated as a result of the non-profit organizations' main activities or other secondary activities during the target year.
•    Total expenditure:
All expenditures made by non-profit organizations as a result of engaging in the economic activity they conduct during the target year.

Data sources

Non-profit Sector Organizations Statistics Publication relies on two main sources in its data, where the publication is based on:
First source: Through a comprehensive survey conducted annually by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT).
The main variables published for Non-profit Sector Organizations Statistics are:
•    The relative distribution of non-profit entities by the classification of non-profit organizations.
•    The relative distribution of employed persons by the classification of non-profit organizations. 
•    Total compensation of employees by the classification of non-profit organizations.
•    Total revenues by the classification of non-profit organizations.
•    Total expenditures by classification for non-profit Organization.
•    Gross fixed capital formation by the classification of non-profit organizations.
Second source: From administrative records of the targeted government entities.
•    National Center for Non-Profit sector.

Designing the data collection tool

An electronic questionnaire (CAPI) was designed to ensure ease of use by field researchers, along with a telephone version (CATI) for contacting respondents when needed, and a web-based version (CAWI) sent via email link for self-completion. and the data was collected using a questionnaire prepared and designed by specialists at the General Authority for Statistics. during its design, international recommendations, standards, and definitions were taken into account, and it was also presented to relevant entities to gather their views and observations. the questions were formulated in a specific scientific manner to unify the format of question delivery by researchers.
Sections of the questionnaire:
The questionnaire is divided into 6 sections:
•    First: Metadata.
•    Second: Totals.
•    Third: Employees and their compensation. 
•    Fourth: Operating and transformation expenses. 
•    Fifth: Revenues.
•    Sixth: Assets and liabilities.
Method of calculating the indicators:
•    Fixed capital formation: Purchases of fixed assets – sales of fixed assets
Review and Correction Rules:
To ensure the quality of the Non-profit Organizations Statistics survey data, four types of review and correction rules were established, as follows:
•    Automated adjustment rules:
These rules are applied for the automatic calculation of certain fields or automatic adjustment of responses in specific fields to align with some questionnaires, totaling approximately 92 rules.
•    Navigation rules between sections and fields:
Special rules were programmed to organize automatic navigation between sections and fields, as well as between economic survey questionnaires, based on the respondent’s input. 
•     Error rules: 
These rules cannot be bypassed during data entry. The field researcher must correct the data by referring back to the respondent to verify its accuracy. Approximately 28 such rules were applied.
•    Alert (Warning) Rules: 
These rules are designed to verify the correctness of the data entered by the researcher. The field researcher may override them if the data accuracy is confirmed, with a total of approximately 10 rules.

Questionnaire test (cognitive test)

The outputs of the cognitive test conducted in 2024 for the Non-profit Organizations Statistics survey were adopted. The interview sample was drawn from a random sample of establishments. During the cognitive testing process, the following evaluation pillars were taken into consideration: (The general concept of the question, clarity of the question wording, clarity of the terms used in the question, and the appropriateness of the response options) until a report was produced summarizing the full results of the cognitive test.

Statistical population

The target statistical population for Non-profit Organizations Statistics consists of non-profit organizations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including associations, non-profit institutions, government entities, and others.

Sample Design

Not applicable. As the survey is a comprehensive enumeration of all non-profit organizations in the Kingdom.

Statistical unit (sampling unit)

The statistical unit in the Non-profit Sector Organizations Statistics is the organization.

Data collection

Data collection from the survey:
Data for non-profit sector organization statistics are collected through:
•    Computer-assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI).
•    Computer-assisted Web Interviews (CAWI).
•    Computer-assisted Personal Interviews (CAPI).
Data collection from administrative records:
In coordination with the Authority’s relevant departments responsible for conducting the survey and managing data collection, the administrative data for the Non-profit Sector Organizations Statistics publication are obtained from the National Center for the Development of the Non-Profit Sector and other supervisory entities, in addition to government entities included within the scope of Non-profit Sector Organizations Statistics. 
They will be stored in the authority's databases after auditing and reviewing according to established statistical methods and recognized quality standards, with reference to the data source in case any errors are discovered or if there are any observations regarding the data.

Data collection frequency 

The data collection process for Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics is conducted on an annual basis.

Reference area

Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics cover all 13 administrative regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Riyadh, Makkah Al-Mukarramah, Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, Al-Qassim, Eastern Region, Asir, Tabuk, Hail, Northern Borders, Jazan, Najran, Al-Baha, and Al-Jouf).

Reference period (time reference)

Data for the Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics survey are based on the year 2024:
During the specified period, organizations within the target population are contacted to complete the survey questionnaire. Survey data are usually attributed to the fiscal year preceding the implementation period.

Base period

Not applicable.

Measurement unit

Most results are measured in Saudi Riyals, such as: Expenditure on Non-Profit Sector Organizations.

Time coverage

Results of Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics are available and comparable from 2019 to 2024.

Publication frequency

Results of Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics are published on an annual basis in accordance with the approved statistical plan.

Statistical processing

Error detection

Data are reviewed and matched to ensure their accuracy and precision in a way that suits their nature with the aim of giving the presented statistics quality and accuracy. An example of this is the use of the IQR methodology (Interquartile Range), which is a widely applied and globally practiced method for identifying outliers.
The calculation is done:
•    First quarter of the data (Q1 / 25%): The average of the lower half of the dataset.
•    Third quarter of the data (Q3 / 75%): The average of the upper half of the dataset.
The interquartile range measures the spread of the middle 50% of the data, highlighting values that differ significantly from the central tendency of the dataset.
The boundaries for outliers are determined as follows:
•    Lower Bound: First quartile - 1.5 * Interquartile range (IQR).
•    Upper Bound: Third quartile + 1.5 * Interquartile range (IQR).
Variables are identified as outliers if:
•    The variable is less than the minimum.
•    The variable is greater than the maximum.
After identifying outliers, the Business and Trade Statistics team analyzes and evaluates their impact on averages by comparing the mean and median across specific characteristics of the dataset, using appropriate statistical measures and critical assessment.
Data for the current reference year are compared with those of the previous year to ensure accuracy and consistency during data processing and the preparation and review of results.
In addition to data processing and tabulation to verify accuracy, all outputs are stored and uploaded to the database after compilation by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), where they are reviewed and processed by specialists in the Business and Trade Statistics  Department using modern technologies and purpose-designed software.

Data integration and matching from multiple sources 

The survey relied on two main data sources: administrative records of non-profit sector organizations and data collected through the survey questionnaire. Data integration and matching were conducted between the two sources to ensure consistency, completeness, and accuracy. The matching process included duplication checks, verification of organization status, and variable matching. In case of discrepancies, the source authority of the administrative data was contacted to ensure data harmonization and approval of the final version.

Imputation and calibration

Data editing:
Specialists of General Department of Business and Trade Statistics department have processed and analyzed data in this stage, and this step was based on the following measures:
•    Sorting and arranging data in groups or different categories in a serial order.
•    Summarizing detailed data into key points or data.
•    Combining many data segments and ensuring their interconnection.
•    Processing incomplete or missing data.
•    Processing illogical data.
•    Converting data into statistically significant data.
•    Arranging, presenting and interpreting data.
Compensation (for non-response cases or incomplete datasets): 
The approach used for compensation in non-profit sector organizations statistics, whether for establishments with incomplete response or missing data for specific variables. Reinterviews are permitted to obtain missing information or to address cases of non-response. Thereafter, missing or non-response data are handled through assessment based on a scientific methodology for estimation, taking into account several considerations, including historical data series, an acceptable range of missing data, and estimates based on stratum-level data.

Seasonal adjustments

Not applicable, only final results will be published. 

Adjustment of preliminary results 

Not applicable, only final results will be published. 

Resources used

Quality dimensions

Suitability

A criterion that indicates how well the product meets users’ needs.

User needs 

Internal users in the General Authority for Statistics of Non-profit sector organizations statistics:
•    National accounts.
External users and major beneficiaries for Non-profit sector organizations statistics data, include:
•    Government entities.
•    Regional and international organizations.
•    Research institutions.
The key variables used by external users:

Completeness 

Data for Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics are based on two main sources: The first source consists of administrative records from government entities, while the second source is data collected through field and telephone surveys of organizations in order to provide comprehensive information on the indicators of Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics.

Accuracy and reliability 

A standard that measures how close the calculations or estimates are to the exact or true values that reflect reality.

Overall accuracy 

•    The data collected is improved through the researchers, that have been selected according to a set of practical and objective criteria and training program related to the field of work.
•    Alert, prevention, and correction rules are applied during the data collection process in order to improve data quality.
•    Data is checked with previous years to identify any significant changes in the data.
•    The internal consistency of the data is checked before it is finalized.
•    The links between variables are checked and coherence between different data series is confirmed.

Timeliness and punctuality 

A standard that measures the time gap between the availability of information and the occurrence of the event.
However, timeliness reflects the time difference between the date of data publication and the target date when it is actually published.

Timeliness 

The General Authority for Statistics is committed to applying internationally recognized standards for the dissemination of statistics, including the timeliness standard issued by the European Statistical System (ESS). Publication dates are announced and communicated through the official website via the Statistical Calendar. The Authority adheres to the announced schedule, and any delays are communicated accordingly.

Punctuality 

Publication is carried out in accordance with the release dates published in the Statistical Calendar for Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics on the General Authority for Statistics’ website.
The data are available at the expected time, as scheduled in the statistical release calendar, If the publication is delayed, reasons shall be provided.

Coherence and comparability

The ability for users to access data, the availability of accurate or complete data, and the availability of a methodology and quality report.

Comparability - geographical

The data follow standardized international definitions and standards, ensuring their comparability both nationally and internationally.

Comparability - over time 

The survey started in 2018 as an annual survey. The major changes that have occurred in recent years:
•    During the years: 2019-2020-2021:
-    It was not implemented due to the (Covid-19) pandemic.
-    Transition to Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI) and Computer-Assisted Web Interviews (CAWI) due to the pandemic.
•    2022:
The General Authority for Statistics has transitioned to using administrative records to update the statistical frame and population of entities licensed by the National Center for the Development of the Non-Profit Sector, in line with international practices, and to ensure that statistical frames are updated on an annual basis.
•    2023:
Data were collected using computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI), computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI), and computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI).
•    2024:
Historical data from 2019 to 2023 were updated to ensure consistency of results and comparability over time. 

Coherence- Cross domain

The data are consistent, as their coherence is verified against all other statistics containing similar indicators. These procedures help ensure integration and harmonization among statistics, thereby enhancing the reliability of the data and the quality of the analyses based on them, while ensuring that the results are free from any unjustified inconsistencies.

Coherence- Sub-annual and annual statistics 

Not applicable, as the product is annual only.

Coherence- National Accounts 

The data is consistent, as the results and information derived from relevant data sources and statistics were verified for compatibility.

Coherence- Internal 

The statistics of non-profit sector organizations for the reference period have complete internal consistency, as they are all based on the same precise dataset and are calculated using statistical methods.

Accessibility and clarity

The ability for users to access data, the availability of accurate or complete data, and the availability of a methodology and quality report.

Press releases

The announcements for each publication are available on the statistical calendar as mentioned in 10.1. The press releases can be viewed on the website of GASTAT on the link: 
Press release

Publications

The General Authority for Statistics issues publications and reports on non-profit sector organizations' statistics regularly as part of a pre-prepared dissemination plan, and they are published on the Authority's website. GASTAT is keen to publish its publications in a way that serves all users of different types, including publications in different formats that contain (publication tables, data graphs, indicators, metadata, methodology, and questionnaires) in both English and Arabic.
Non-profit sector organizations statistics have been included in the statistical calendar:
Non-Profit Sector Organizations

Online database

The data is published on the statistical database:
GASTAT (stats.gov.sa)

Microdata accessibility

Accurate data is unit-level disaggregated data obtained from multiple sources such as sample statistical surveys, general population and housing censuses, and administrative systems, providing detailed information about the characteristics of individuals, families, business entities, and geographical areas, supporting the construction and development of statistical indicators and scientific research.
Different types of microdata files to meet diverse information needs:
•    Public use: 
It consists of sets of records containing information on individuals, households, or business entities anonymized in such a way that the respondent cannot be identified either directlysuch as: (name, address, contact number, identity number etc.) or indirectly (by combining different - especially rare - characteristics of respondents) such as: (age, occupation, education etc.).
•    Scientific use:
These files were established based on a specific methodology according to the data requester's requirements to extract the datasets with specific characteristics used for strategic studies, decision-making, and scientific research by individuals, households, and enterprises; while ensuring they contain no direct identifiers and are subject to confidentiality protection controls.
Qualified users who meet the standards and procedures of confidentiality protection can access the files of scientific use of accurate data through the platform "ITAHA" of the General Authority for Statistics, while the most sensitive data for use is shared by visiting the accurate data laboratory within a secure environment managed by the Authority.

References and standards

In Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics: The concepts, definitions, issues and classifications are based on international standards. 
•    The Satellite Account for the Non-Profit Sector, Related Institutions, and Volunteer Work 2018: 
https://unstats.un.org/unsd/nationalaccount/docs/UN_TSE_HB_FNL_web.pdf
•    Non-profit organizations in the System of National Accounts 2003: 
https://unstats.un.org/unsd/publication/seriesf/seriesf_91e.pdf​​​​​​​
•    System of National Accounts 2008:  
https://www.stats.gov.sa/ar/1467

Quality assurance

GASTAT declares that it considers the following principles: Impartiality, ensuring that the statistical product is user-oriented, maintaining the quality of processes and outputs, enhancing the effectiveness of statistical operations, and reducing the burden on respondents. 
Data is validated through procedures and quality controls that are applied during the process at various stages, such as data entry, data collection, and other final controls.

Quality assessment

GASTAT performs all statistical activities according to a national model (Generic Statistical Business Process Model – GSBPM). According to the GSBPM, the final phase of statistical activities is overall evaluation using information gathered in each phase or sub-process. This information is used to prepare the evaluation report, which outlines all the quality issues related to the specific statistical activity and serves as input for improvement actions.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality - Policy

According to Royal Decree No. 23 dated 07/12/1379, data must always be kept confidential and must be used by GASTAT for statistical purposes only.
Therefore, the data is protected in the data servers of GASTAT.

Confidentiality - Data Treatment

Data of SMEs survey are presented in right tables in order to summarize, understand, as well as extract their results. Moreover, to compare them with other data, and to obtain statistical significance about the selected study population. However, referring to such data indicated in tables is much easier than going back to check the original questionnaire that may include some data like: names and addresses of individuals, and names of data providers, which violates data confidentiality of statistical data.
“Anonymity of data” is one of the most important procedures. To keep data confidential,
GASTAT removed information on individual persons, households, or business entities such a way that the respondent cannot be identified either directly such as: (name, address, contact number, identity number etc.) or indirectly (by combining different - especially rare - characteristics of respondents) such as: (age, occupation, education etc.).

Dissemination policy

Statistical calendar

Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics have been included in the Statistical Calendar.  
Statistical Calendar

User access

One of GASTAT’s objectives is to better meet its clients' needs, so it immediately provides them with the publication's results once the Non-Profit Sector Organizations Statistics publication is published.
Customer questions and inquiries about the publication and its results are also received through various communication channels, such as:
•    GASTAT official website:  www.stats.gov.sa
•    GASTAT official email address:   info@stats.gov.sa
•    Official visits to GASTAT’s official head office in Riyadh or one of its branches in Saudi Arabia.
•    Official letters.
•    Statistical telephone: (199009).