Saudi Statistics Forum Starts Next Week with 5 Panel Sessions

Riyadh will host the inaugural Saudi Statistics Forum on April 27–28, 2025, under the theme “Statistics for Sustainable Opportunities,” organized by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) and held under the auspices of Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Alibrahim. The two-day event at a venue in the capital will bring together ministers, representatives from international organizations, statistical offices, and local and international experts to discuss the growing role of data in shaping policy and measuring progress. With five specialized panel sessions, the forum aims to elevate public awareness about statistics and their critical importance in planning and development.

As Saudi Arabia accelerates its ambitious Vision 2030 agenda, the need for reliable, timely, and granular data has never been greater. The forum arrives at a pivotal moment when evidence-based policymaking is driving economic diversification, social reform, and sustainable growth. By convening global statistical experts and Saudi decision-makers, GASTAT is reinforcing the Kingdom’s commitment to transparency, innovation, and international cooperation in the field of official statistics. The event underscores how statistics underpin every facet of national development, from economic planning to performance measurement. How can accurate data transform a nation’s future? The answer lies in forums like this, where knowledge exchange and best practices take center stage.

Context and Background

The Saudi Statistics Forum is being organized by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), the Kingdom’s official statistical agency responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating socio-economic data. Under the patronage of Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Alibrahim, the forum reflects the government’s recognition that robust statistical systems are indispensable for informed decision-making. GASTAT has been modernizing its operations in line with international standards, and this forum serves as a platform to showcase its progress and foster collaboration.

Scheduled for April 27–28 in Riyadh, the event will gather a diverse audience of more than 300 participants, including ministers, representatives from international organizations, statistical offices, and subject-matter experts from Saudi Arabia and abroad. The theme, “Statistics for Sustainable Opportunities,” encapsulates the dual focus on sustainability and opportunity—two pillars of Saudi Vision 2030. The forum will address key statistical issues, consolidate concepts of statistical work, and emphasize the importance of data in planning and measuring government performance. Why is international collaboration essential in the field of statistics? Because data knows no borders, and shared methodologies lead to better global outcomes.

The timing is significant. As Saudi Arabia undergoes unprecedented economic and social transformation, the demand for high-quality statistics has surged. Policymakers need real-time data to monitor progress, adjust strategies, and ensure that Vision 2030 goals are met. The forum provides a timely opportunity to discuss challenges, share innovations, and align Saudi statistical practices with global best practices. It also highlights the Kingdom’s proactive approach to building a knowledge-based economy where data-driven insights fuel growth.

Key Details

The forum will feature five specialized panel sessions that delve into critical topics in the statistical field. These sessions will cover a range of issues, from emerging methodologies to the application of statistics in measuring sustainable development. Participants will have the chance to showcase key global statistical methodologies and modern products, facilitating a rich exchange of ideas. The panels are designed to address both theoretical and practical aspects, ensuring that attendees walk away with actionable insights.

Among the expected attendees are various Saudi ministers, representatives from international organizations such as the United Nations and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), heads of statistical offices, and renowned local and international experts. Their collective expertise will illuminate how statistics can support Saudi progress and sustainable development. The forum will also spotlight the positive impact of the statistics sector on the Kingdom’s advancement, demonstrating how data informs policies across health, education, economy, and environment.

A central objective is to raise public awareness about the significance of statistics in managing the present and shaping the future. By engaging a wide audience, including media and the public, GASTAT hopes to foster a data culture in Saudi Arabia. The forum will also highlight the role of statistics in measuring progress on Saudi Vision 2030 indicators, providing a clear picture of how far the Kingdom has come and what remains to be done. How can statistics empower citizens and businesses alike? By making data accessible and understandable, enabling everyone to participate in the national journey.

International and Regional Impact

The Saudi Statistics Forum is poised to strengthen international and regional cooperation in the field of official statistics. By bringing together representatives from international organizations and statistical offices, the event facilitates the exchange of knowledge and the harmonization of methodologies. This is particularly important in an era of global challenges—such as climate change, economic volatility, and public health crises—where comparable data is essential for coordinated responses. Saudi Arabia’s leadership in hosting this forum signals its commitment to playing a constructive role in global statistical governance.

At the regional level, the forum offers a platform for Gulf and Middle Eastern countries to share experiences and align their statistical systems. As the region diversifies its economies and invests in human capital, reliable data becomes a cornerstone of policy. The Kingdom’s efforts to modernize its statistical infrastructure can serve as a model for neighbors, fostering South-South cooperation and enhancing the region’s collective capacity to track progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). What can other nations learn from Saudi Arabia’s data-driven approach? That investing in statistics is investing in a prosperous and stable future.

Economic and Strategic Significance

Statistics are the backbone of economic planning and strategic decision-making. For Saudi Arabia, accurate data is essential to monitor the performance of Vision 2030 programs, from the Public Investment Fund’s megaprojects to the expansion of the private sector. The forum will underscore how statistical insights enable policymakers to allocate resources efficiently, evaluate the impact of reforms, and attract foreign investment by demonstrating transparency and accountability. In a world where investors increasingly rely on data to assess risk and opportunity, a robust statistical system enhances the Kingdom’s attractiveness as a business destination.

Strategically, the forum reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in the Middle East and a responsible global player. By investing in statistical capacity, the Kingdom is building the infrastructure needed to measure progress toward its ambitious goals, including economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and social well-being. The event also aligns with the broader trend of digital transformation, as GASTAT incorporates advanced technologies such as big data, artificial intelligence, and geospatial information to produce more timely and granular statistics. How does data drive economic diversification? By revealing emerging sectors, identifying skills gaps, and guiding investment to where it can have the greatest impact.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The Saudi Statistics Forum is a direct reflection of Vision 2030’s emphasis on transparency, accountability, and evidence-based governance. Vision 2030 is built on a comprehensive system of indicators and targets, and statistics are the means by which progress is tracked and communicated. GASTAT’s work supports numerous Vision 2030 objectives, from enhancing government effectiveness to fostering a vibrant society. The forum’s focus on sustainable opportunities aligns with the Vision’s three pillars: a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation.

By raising public awareness and promoting international cooperation, the forum contributes to a culture of data-driven decision-making that will benefit all segments of society. As Saudi Arabia continues its journey toward a diversified, knowledge-based economy, events like this ensure that the Kingdom remains at the forefront of statistical innovation. The insights gained and partnerships forged will help accelerate progress, measure impact, and ultimately improve the quality of life for citizens and residents. In the grand tapestry of Vision 2030, statistics are the threads that hold the design together, enabling a brighter and more sustainable future for all.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the Saudi Statistics Forum?

A1. The Saudi Statistics Forum is a two-day event organized by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) under the theme “Statistics for Sustainable Opportunities.” It brings together experts to discuss the role of data in planning and development, marking the first such forum in the Kingdom.

Q2. When and where will the forum take place?

A2. The forum will be held in Riyadh on April 27–28, 2025. It will convene at a venue in the capital, attracting over 300 participants from Saudi Arabia and abroad.

Q3. Who is organizing the Saudi Statistics Forum?

A3. The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) is organizing the forum. It operates under the auspices of Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Alibrahim, reflecting the government’s commitment to robust statistical systems.

Q4. What is the theme of the forum?

A4. The theme is “Statistics for Sustainable Opportunities.” It highlights how reliable data can drive sustainable development and create opportunities for economic and social progress in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Q5. How many panel sessions will be held?

A5. There will be five specialized panel sessions. These sessions will address key statistical issues, modern methodologies, and the importance of data in measuring government performance and sustainable development.

Q6. Who is expected to attend the forum?

A6. Attendees include various ministers, representatives from international organizations, statistical offices, and local and international experts. Over 300 individuals interested in statistical work are expected to participate.

Q7. What are the main objectives of the forum?

A7. The forum aims to raise public awareness about the significance of statistics, consolidate concepts of statistical work, and showcase global methodologies. It also seeks to highlight the role of statistics in supporting Saudi progress and Vision 2030 indicators.

Q8. How does the forum support Saudi Vision 2030?

A8. By promoting evidence-based policymaking and measuring progress on Vision 2030 indicators, the forum directly supports the Vision’s goals. It reinforces transparency and accountability, which are essential for achieving the Kingdom’s ambitious targets.

Q9. What role does GASTAT play in Saudi Arabia?

A9. GASTAT is the official statistical agency responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating socio-economic data. It provides the data needed for planning, policy formulation, and monitoring progress toward national goals.

Q10. Why is public awareness about statistics important?

A10. Public awareness fosters a data culture where citizens and businesses can use statistics to make informed decisions. It also enhances trust in government policies and encourages participation in national development efforts.

Q11. How will the forum address sustainable development?

A11. The forum will discuss how statistics can measure and support sustainable development. Panel sessions will explore methodologies for tracking environmental, social, and economic indicators, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Q12. What international organizations will participate?

A12. Representatives from various international organizations, including UN agencies and the GCC, are expected. Their participation facilitates knowledge exchange and harmonization of statistical practices across borders.

Q13. What are the expected outcomes of the forum?

A13. The forum is expected to enhance collaboration, share best practices, and promote the adoption of modern statistical methods. It will also strengthen Saudi Arabia’s statistical infrastructure and its contribution to global data initiatives.

Q14. How does the forum benefit the Saudi economy?

A14. By improving data quality and accessibility, the forum supports economic planning, investment attraction, and performance measurement. This helps diversify the economy and achieve Vision 2030’s economic goals.

Q15. Will the forum showcase new technologies?

A15. Yes, the forum will spotlight modern products and methodologies, including big data, AI, and geospatial tools. These technologies enhance the timeliness and accuracy of statistical outputs.

Q16. How can statistics measure government performance?

A16. Statistics provide objective indicators of progress in areas like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. They enable policymakers to assess the effectiveness of programs and make data-driven adjustments.

Q17. What is the significance of the forum’s timing?

A17. The forum coincides with Saudi Arabia’s accelerated transformation under Vision 2030. As reforms intensify, the demand for reliable data grows, making this forum a timely platform to address emerging challenges and opportunities.

Q18. How does the forum promote international cooperation?

A18. By bringing together global experts and organizations, the forum fosters dialogue and partnership. It aligns Saudi statistical practices with international standards, enhancing comparability and mutual learning.

Q19. What topics will the panel sessions cover?

A19. The sessions will cover key statistical issues, including data collection methods, sustainable development indicators, government performance measurement, and the role of statistics in shaping the future.

Q20. How can the public engage with the forum’s outcomes?

A20. The public can follow media coverage and access GASTAT’s publications. By understanding the importance of statistics, citizens can better participate in national development and hold institutions accountable.

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