Saudi Arabia’s delegation, led by the President of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, participated in the Fifth United Nations World Data Forum held in Medellín, Colombia, from November 12 to 15, 2024, where the Kingdom was officially announced as the host of the forum’s sixth edition in Riyadh in 2026. The announcement, made before representatives of 193 UN member states, marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s growing role in global statistical cooperation and sustainable development. The delegation’s active engagement underscored the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing data-driven policymaking both domestically and internationally.
Throughout the four-day forum, Dr. Aldossari delivered a keynote address, held high-level bilateral meetings, and participated in strategic discussions on the future of global statistics. His engagements highlighted GASTAT’s independent role in producing reliable statistical data, built on a national statistical system established more than 65 years ago. The forum also served as a platform for Saudi Arabia to showcase its readiness to host the 2026 edition, which will bring together data experts, policymakers, and international organizations in Riyadh. How does a nation’s statistical infrastructure shape its ability to influence global development agendas?
Context and Background
The UN World Data Forum is a biennial event that convenes data and statistics experts from governments, international organizations, the private sector, and academia to discuss innovative approaches to data collection, dissemination, and use for sustainable development. The fifth edition in Medellín focused on leveraging data to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda. Saudi Arabia’s participation reflects its broader strategy to position itself as a global hub for data and statistics, aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 reform agenda. The forum’s outcomes are expected to inform national and international policies, making Saudi Arabia’s role increasingly pivotal.
As part of the forum, Dr. Aldossari attended the official meeting of the High-Level Group for Partnership, Coordination, and Capacity-Building for Statistics for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (HLG-PCCB). The group discussed its aspirations for the sixth forum, key topics to be addressed, and preparations for the upcoming event in Riyadh. This high-level engagement demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to shaping the global statistical agenda and ensuring that data remains at the heart of sustainable development efforts. What does it take for a country to lead in the complex field of international statistics?
Saudi Arabia’s selection as host for the 2026 forum was not coincidental. It followed years of consistent investment in statistical modernization, including the adoption of advanced technologies, capacity-building initiatives, and international partnerships. GASTAT has been at the forefront of these efforts, working to enhance the quality, accessibility, and timeliness of official statistics. The Kingdom’s hosting of the forum will provide a platform to showcase these achievements and facilitate knowledge exchange among nations. How can data serve as a bridge between nations with diverse development priorities?
Key Details
In his keynote address, Dr. Aldossari shared Saudi Arabia’s experience in statistical work, emphasizing GASTAT’s independent role in producing reliable data. He highlighted the authority’s contribution to supporting decision-makers and policymakers, as well as the sector’s alignment with Vision 2030 goals. The address underscored the importance of a robust national statistical system, which Saudi Arabia has developed over more than six decades. This system now provides comprehensive data on population, economy, health, education, and other key sectors, enabling evidence-based policymaking and tracking of development progress.
Dr. Aldossari also held bilateral meetings with leaders of international organizations, committees, and statistical bodies. He met with the Director of the UN Statistics Division, Stefan Schweinfest, to discuss the role of statistical data in sustainable development, enhancing quality of life, and supporting policymakers. The conversation reinforced the shared commitment to improving data quality and availability worldwide. Additionally, Dr. Aldossari engaged with his counterparts from statistical offices in Palestine, Switzerland, and Colombia, where discussions reiterated the importance of data issued by statistical authorities as a cornerstone for development and improving global well-being. He stressed the role of statistical indicators in creating holistic visions for scientifically grounded development plans, calling for the exchange of expertise and experiences among countries to realize integration.
On the sidelines of the forum, Dr. Aldossari held separate meetings with the CEO of the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data, the president of the Open Data Initiative, and the Chair of Paris21, an organization specializing in statistics for development. These discussions explored avenues for cooperation to leverage these organizations’ expertise and showcased GASTAT’s efforts to develop its statistical systems and boost international cooperation. The meetings also provided an opportunity to learn from global best practices and to share Saudi Arabia’s journey in modernizing its statistical infrastructure. How can international partnerships accelerate the improvement of statistical systems in developing countries?
International and Regional Impact
Saudi Arabia’s active participation in the UN World Data Forum and its upcoming hosting of the sixth edition in Riyadh signal a significant shift in the global data landscape. By taking a leadership role, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a bridge between developed and developing nations, fostering dialogue and cooperation on data-related challenges. This is particularly important as the world strives to achieve the SDGs by 2030, with data playing a critical role in measuring progress and identifying gaps. Saudi Arabia’s commitment to providing high-quality statistical data and indicators will support these global efforts, enabling advanced insights into sustainable development achievements among member states.
Regionally, Saudi Arabia’s leadership in statistics can inspire other Middle Eastern and North African countries to strengthen their own statistical systems. The Kingdom’s experience in building a robust national statistical framework over 65 years offers valuable lessons for nations seeking to improve data governance. Moreover, the 2026 forum in Riyadh will bring together experts from around the world, facilitating knowledge transfer and capacity-building in the region. This could lead to improved data collection and analysis across the Arab world, ultimately supporting better policymaking and economic diversification. How might improved statistical cooperation reshape regional development trajectories?
Economic and Strategic Significance
The economic and strategic significance of Saudi Arabia’s leadership in global statistics extends beyond the realm of data. Reliable statistics are essential for attracting investment, as they provide investors with accurate information about market conditions, demographic trends, and economic performance. By hosting the UN World Data Forum, Saudi Arabia will showcase its commitment to transparency and data-driven governance, which can enhance its attractiveness as an investment destination. Furthermore, the forum will facilitate partnerships between Saudi entities and international organizations, potentially leading to new collaborations in technology, research, and innovation.
From a strategic perspective, Saudi Arabia’s role in shaping the global statistical agenda aligns with its broader foreign policy objectives. The Kingdom has increasingly sought to play a constructive role in multilateral institutions, contributing to global challenges such as sustainable development, climate change, and humanitarian aid. Hosting the 2026 forum reinforces this image and strengthens Saudi Arabia’s soft power. It also provides a platform to highlight Vision 2030 achievements, including economic diversification, social reforms, and infrastructure development. How does a nation’s reputation for data excellence influence its global standing?
Vision 2030 Alignment
Saudi Arabia’s participation in the Fifth UN World Data Forum and its successful bid to host the sixth edition in Riyadh are directly aligned with the goals of Vision 2030. The Vision, launched in 2016 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aims to diversify the economy, enhance government effectiveness, and improve quality of life. A key pillar of this transformation is the development of a modern, integrated statistical system that supports evidence-based decision-making. GASTAT’s efforts to produce high-quality data and indicators are instrumental in measuring progress toward Vision 2030 targets and ensuring accountability.
Moreover, the forum’s focus on sustainable development resonates with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the SDGs. The Kingdom has integrated the SDGs into its national planning and is actively working to achieve them. By sharing its experience and hosting the 2026 forum, Saudi Arabia will contribute to global efforts to harness data for sustainable development. This reinforces the Kingdom’s position as a responsible global citizen and a leader in the region. As the world looks ahead to Riyadh 2026, Saudi Arabia stands ready to welcome the international community and to advance the data revolution for the benefit of all. How will the legacy of Riyadh 2026 shape the future of global data governance?
20 Questions
Q1. What was the main outcome of the Fifth UN World Data Forum for Saudi Arabia?
A1. Saudi Arabia was officially announced as the host of the sixth edition of the UN World Data Forum, to be held in Riyadh in 2026, recognizing the Kingdom’s growing role in global statistical cooperation.
Q2. Who led the Saudi delegation to the forum in Medellín?
A2. Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), led the delegation and represented the Kingdom at the high-level meetings and keynote sessions.
Q3. How many UN member states were represented at the forum?
A3. Representatives from 193 UN member states attended the forum, making it a truly global gathering of data and statistics experts focused on sustainable development.
Q4. What is the significance of Saudi Arabia hosting the 2026 forum?
A4. It demonstrates international confidence in Saudi Arabia’s capabilities and provides a platform to showcase the Kingdom’s advanced statistical systems and Vision 2030 achievements on a global stage.
Q5. What did Dr. Aldossari highlight in his keynote address?
A5. He shared Saudi Arabia’s experience in statistical work, emphasizing GASTAT’s independent role in producing reliable data and the sector’s alignment with Vision 2030 goals.
Q6. How old is Saudi Arabia’s national statistical system?
A6. The Kingdom’s official national statistical system was established over 65 years ago, providing a robust foundation for producing reliable and comprehensive statistical data.
Q7. Who did Dr. Aldossari meet with from the UN Statistics Division?
A7. He met with Stefan Schweinfest, Director of the UN Statistics Division, to discuss the role of statistical data in sustainable development and supporting policymakers.
Q8. Which statistical offices did Dr. Aldossari engage with bilaterally?
A8. He held discussions with counterparts from statistical offices in Palestine, Switzerland, and Colombia, focusing on the importance of data for development.
Q9. What organizations did Dr. Aldossari meet with on the sidelines?
A9. He met with the CEO of the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data, the president of the Open Data Initiative, and the Chair of Paris21.
Q10. What is the High-Level Group for Partnership, Coordination, and Capacity-Building?
A10. It is a UN group that supports statistics for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and its meeting focused on preparations for the sixth forum in Riyadh.
Q11. What did Dr. Aldossari pledge regarding the 2026 forum?
A11. He pledged that Saudi Arabia would provide all necessary resources to ensure an exceptional edition that reflects the importance of statistical work globally.
Q12. How does GASTAT support decision-makers in Saudi Arabia?
A12. GASTAT produces reliable statistical data and indicators that help policymakers design evidence-based plans and track progress toward national development goals.
Q13. What role do statistical indicators play in development plans?
A13. They provide a scientific basis for creating holistic development visions, enabling countries to measure progress, identify gaps, and allocate resources effectively.
Q14. How does Saudi Arabia’s participation align with Vision 2030?
A14. Vision 2030 emphasizes government effectiveness and data-driven decision-making, and GASTAT’s work supports these goals by providing high-quality statistics.
Q15. What is the expected impact of the 2026 forum on the region?
A15. It will facilitate knowledge transfer and capacity-building, potentially improving statistical systems across the Middle East and North Africa.
Q16. Why is reliable data important for attracting investment?
A16. Accurate statistics provide investors with information on market conditions and economic performance, enhancing transparency and confidence in the economy.
Q17. How does hosting the forum enhance Saudi Arabia’s soft power?
A17. It reinforces the Kingdom’s image as a responsible global citizen and a leader in multilateral cooperation, strengthening its international standing.
Q18. What is the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030 Agenda?
A18. It is a UN framework adopted in 2015 to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all, with data playing a crucial role in measuring progress.
Q19. What did Dr. Aldossari stress about exchanging expertise?
A19. He called for exchanging relevant expertise and experiences among countries to realize integration and improve statistical systems worldwide.
Q20. What can be expected from the sixth forum in Riyadh?
A20. It will bring together global experts to discuss innovative data solutions, showcase Saudi Arabia’s statistical advancements, and advance the data revolution for sustainable development.
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