The President of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, welcomed United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD) Director Stefan Schweinfest to Riyadh on February 6, 2025. The high-level meeting focused on enhancing collaborative efforts in statistical data and exploring opportunities for mutual benefit, underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing data-driven decision-making in line with international standards.
Context and Background
This meeting builds on a longstanding partnership between GASTAT and the UNSD, which has supported Saudi Arabia’s efforts to modernize its statistical systems. As the Kingdom pursues its ambitious Vision 2030 reform agenda, reliable and comprehensive data is essential for monitoring progress and informing policy. Hosting the 6th UN World Data Forum in Riyadh in 2026 is a key milestone, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for data innovation.
Key Details
Discussions covered GASTAT’s participation in the upcoming 56th session of the United Nations Statistical Commission in March 2025, as well as preparations for the 2026 World Data Forum. Both sides reviewed ongoing efforts at GASTAT to develop the Kingdom’s statistical database, including the creation of pioneering statistical products that provide comprehensive data on Saudi Arabia. Mechanisms for calculating and governing indicators were also addressed, ensuring data integrity and transparency.
Implications and Impact
The strengthened collaboration between GASTAT and UNSD is expected to enhance the quality and accessibility of Saudi statistical data, benefiting researchers, investors, and policymakers worldwide. By aligning with UN methodologies, the Kingdom improves its data comparability globally, fostering trust and facilitating foreign investment. The 2026 World Data Forum will further amplify Saudi Arabia’s role as a leader in data for sustainable development.
Vision 2030 Alignment
This meeting directly supports Vision 2030’s goals of building a thriving economy and a vibrant society through data-driven governance. GASTAT’s development of advanced statistical products enables more effective planning and evaluation of national initiatives. By hosting international data events and deepening ties with the United Nations, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its commitment to transparency, innovation, and global partnership as it strides toward a prosperous future.
20 Questions
Q1. Who met at the GASTAT headquarters in Riyadh?
A1. GASTAT President Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari welcomed UNSD Director Stefan Schweinfest for discussions on statistical collaboration.
Q2. What was the main topic of the meeting?
A2. The meeting focused on enhancing collaborative efforts and exploring opportunities in statistical data and topics of mutual interest.
Q3. When did the meeting take place?
A3. The meeting occurred on February 6, 2025, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
Q4. What upcoming UN Statistical Commission session was discussed?
A4. They addressed GASTAT’s participation in the upcoming 56th session of the United Nations Statistical Commission in March.
Q5. What major data event will Saudi Arabia host in 2026?
A5. Saudi Arabia will host the 6th UN World Data Forum in Riyadh in 2026.
Q6. How does this meeting support Vision 2030?
A6. It advances data-driven governance, which is essential for monitoring and achieving Vision 2030 goals.
Q7. What statistical developments at GASTAT were highlighted?
A7. They highlighted GASTAT’s ongoing efforts to develop the statistical database in Saudi Arabia.
Q8. What kind of statistical products did they discuss?
A8. They discussed GASTAT’s pioneering statistical products that provide comprehensive data about the Kingdom.
Q9. Why are indicators important in this context?
A9. Mechanisms for calculating and governing indicators ensure data integrity and transparency.
Q10. Who is Stefan Schweinfest?
A10. Stefan Schweinfest is the Director of the United Nations Statistics Division.
Q11. What is the role of GASTAT?
A11. GASTAT is Saudi Arabia’s official statistical agency responsible for producing and disseminating national statistics.
Q12. How does this meeting benefit international researchers?
A12. Enhanced data quality and accessibility support researchers in studying Saudi Arabia’s economy and society.
Q13. Does Saudi Arabia align with UN statistical methods?
A13. Yes, collaboration with UNSD ensures alignment with international statistical standards.
Q14. What is the significance of the UN World Data Forum?
A14. It is a global event that promotes data innovation and sustainable development, hosted by Saudi Arabia in 2026.
Q15. How does data governance attract investment?
A15. Reliable and transparent data builds trust among foreign investors and facilitates informed decisions.
Q16. What other topics were discussed during the meeting?
A16. They explored various topics of mutual interest related to statistical collaboration.
Q17. Is this the first meeting between GASTAT and UNSD?
A17. No, it builds on a longstanding partnership between the two organizations.
Q18. How does GASTAT contribute to Vision 2030?
A18. GASTAT provides the data needed to monitor progress and evaluate the impact of national initiatives.
Q19. Will GASTAT participate in international statistical events?
A19. Yes, GASTAT will participate in the 56th session of the UN Statistical Commission in March 2025.
Q20. What is the expected outcome of this collaboration?
A20. Strengthened collaboration will improve data quality, support policy-making, and enhance Saudi Arabia’s global data standing.
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