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During the second quarter of 2023, the Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased by (1.2٪) compared to the same period of last year 2022. According to GASTAT's estimates in Thursday.  The report results indicated that the non-oil activities registered a positive growth by (6.1٪) during the second quarter of 2023 compared to the percentage registered in the same period of last year 2022.  The government activities achieved an increase of (2.3٪) compared to the same period last year. However, oil activities decreased by (4.3٪) in quarter 2, 2023 compared to the same period of the previous year. The results of the report showed that the seasonally adjusted real GDP decreased by 0.2 % during the second quarter of 2023, compared to the first quarter of 2023. It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

Agricultural Development Fund and General Authority for Statistics signed today, Thursday, 1 Safar 1445 , corresponding to 17 August 2023, in Riyadh, a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to enhance the level of joint coordination in the field of statistical data, which contributes to providing statistical data and information and integration to achieve common goals between the two parties. The MoC was signed by Mr. Munir bin Fahad Alsahali, Director General of the Agricultural Development Fund and Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics. The MoC aims to exchange and share statistical data, information and indicators that serve economic activities supervised by the Agricultural Development Fund in accordance with the controls and specifications of data sharing and protection of personal data issued by National Data Management Office.  It is also intended to exchange advice, support, and technical and knowledge expertise in various areas of common interest including research and studies on a regular and continuous basis and to provide the opportunity for employees of both parties to participate in attending developmental courses, seminars, scientific conferences and workshops presented by both parties. The Agricultural Development Fund seeks through conducting cooperation agreements with other parties to enhance the developmental and financing role in supporting the agricultural sector and the importance of sustainable rural agricultural development in Saudi Arabia.

Consumer Price Index (CPI) reached 2.3% over July 2023, down from June 2023, remaining relatively stable on a monthly basis for 2023. This stability is due to the strength of the Saudi economy along with the early economic procedures and measures taken by Saudi Arabia to counter the global rise in inflation rates. It is worth noting that the inflation rates in Saudi Arabia maintain a reasonable standard and balanced rates compared to most countries in the world. During July 2023, the inflation rate recorded a slight increase of 2.3%, compared to the same month of last year 2022. It is noteworthy that the economies of many countries of the world, including developed countries, have been suffering from sharp increases in inflation rates for several months. Economic experts and analysts confirm that reasonable and balanced inflation rates that any society may witness are part of the dynamism and vitality of the economy in this society and its ability to protect itself from any potential crises. However, unreasonable and unbalanced increase in inflation rates is a negative indicator of the existence of economic recession or serious economic challenges in societies that are witnessing a drop in inflation rates.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued the Saudi Women's Report 2022 today. The report aims to provide many indicators relating to Saudi women aged 15 and above in different fields, such as education, health, sports, and technology, as well as other statistics, relying on available official sources. The sources include data from surveys carried out by GASTAT and data from the administrative register available to other official bodies.  According to the report, young women in the age group 15-19 years old represent the highest number among the other age groups, with 916,439 women, followed by 850,780 women in the age group 20 to 24 years old.  The report showed the leading indicators of the Women's Labor Force Survey, which has seen a marked improvement in recent years as the unemployment rate among Saudi women declined, especially in the fourth quarter of 2022, to 15.4% compared to 2021, 2020 and 2019.  In line with the decline in women's unemployment, the expansion of their economic participation and the increase and growth of their employment in various areas, the ratio of employed women to the population rose to 30.4% from the fourth quarter of 2021, where the rate was 27.6%. Women's participation in the labour market was 36%, up slightly from 35.6% in the fourth quarter of 2021.  According to the report, the number of freelance certificates issued to women in 2021 reached 961,189 compared to 105,518 issued in 2020 and 7,997 issued in 2019, which is the lowest.  The report showed that the stock market had witnessed a great turnout from women recently, as the number of Saudi women investors in the stock market in 2021 reached 1,516,995, which is higher than the previous two years, 2019 and 2020.  According to the report, young women aged 15 years and above engaged in physical activity for at least 30 minutes per week, reaching 38.7% in 2021, the highest percentage compared to 2018 and 2019. The highest age group of women engaged in physical activity for at least 30 minutes a week is the age group 20–24 with 43.13%, followed by the age group 25-29 with 42.88%.  GASTAT is the only official reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all statistical work, as well as the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, and documents and archives all works containing information and statistical data on all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia. It gathers, classifies and analyzes data, and extracts indicators from it.

As part of its efforts to enhance its digital services in line with the objectives of Vision 2030, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has launched the Economic Data Platform, which enables researchers and those interested to follow up with the Saudi economic sphere. Moreover, the platform provides the national and international organizations with economic data and statistics. It also presents the most important statistical data and indicators related to price, energy, GDP, international trade, labor market, and business statistics, in addition to other economic statistical data.  The General Authority for Statistics demonstrated that the launch of this platform facilitates access to economic data and indicators by beneficiaries. The platform displays such data using interactive maps, where users can download them with different formats.  This would help the process of conducting studies and research by providing updated and high-quality data that enables users to follow up with the Saudi economic sphere.  The launch of the Economic Data Platform represents the crucial role of GASTAT in providing all types of statistical data in order to support sustainable development plans and utilize statistical indicators and metadata through statistical classifications that conform with international standards and meet the users requirements. GASTAT invites those wishing to benefit from such statistical information and indicators provided by the Platform to visit (https://economics.stats.gov.sa/). It also welcomes all inquiries and suggestions via its unified number: (920020081), its customer support email  (cs@stats.gov.sa) and its website: (www.stats.gov.sa).

The General Authority for Statistics announced that the Industrial Production Index (IPI) has increased by 0.5% during the month of June 2023 compared to May 2023.  On the other hand, the results indicates that IPI registered a Y-O-Y decrease by 1.6% influenced directly by the mining and quarrying activity, where the index's sub-indicator of mining and quarrying declined by 6.5% compared to the same month of last year.   However, the activities of manufacturing and electricity and gas supply achieved annual increases by 10.1% and 25% respectively during June 2023 compared to June 2022. It is noteworthy the Industrial Production Index (IPI) is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the Industrial Production Survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced that Real Estate Price Index increased by 0.8% during the second quarter of 2023 compared to the same quarter of last year (Quarter 2 2022). This increase is boosted by the slight increase in residential real estate prices by 1.1%.   According to the publication results, the residential sector prices increased by 1.1% as a result of the increase of residential lands by 1.2%, on a yearly basis during the second quarter of 2023. In addition, the prices of apartments increased by 1.0%, whereas the prices of buildings decreased by 0.9%, prices of villas by 5.0%, and prices of houses by 0.1% On the other hand, the commercial sector recorded an increase of 0.2% driven by the increase of commercial lands prices by 0.2%. However, the prices of stores decreased by 1.1%, while the prices of commercial buildings and centers remained stable and did not record any percentage change during the second quarter of 2023.   The agricultural sector registered a decline by 0.3% influenced by the decrease of agricultural lands prices by 0.3%.  The Real Estate Price General Index rely on the Ministry of Justice’s administrative data on real estate transactions. This index is an important tool that helps all concerned entities to make relevant economic and statistical decisions on the real estate prices movement and future anticipations over different periods of time. The index includes three main sectors that consist of several real estate categories:  residential sector, which consists of the following categories: (Land, building, villa, apartment, and house), commercial sector which consists of:  (Land, building, store/shop, and commercial center), and the agricultural sector which includes one category only (Agricultural lands).

The General Authority for statistics (GASTAT) released the GDP Flash Estimates Publication for the second quarter of 2023. According to the publication, real GDP increased by (1.1%) during the second quarter of 2023 compared to the same period of last year 2022.    The publication activities showed that non-oil activities positively grew by (5.5%) in quarter 2, 2023 compared to the same period of last year 2022. However, oil activities decreased by (4.2%) compared to the same period of last year.   The results also demonstrated that the seasonally adjusted real GDP declined by (0.1%) during the second quarter of 2023, compared to the first quarter of the same year.  It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

Merchandise exports in May 2023 amounted to SAR 97.1 billion, compared to SAR 143.0 billion in May 2022, with a decrease of SAR 45.9 billion or 32.1%, according to GASTAT's report.   The publication indicated that the value of oil exports in May 2023 recorded SAR 72.0 billion compared to SAR 115.5 billion in May 2022, with a decrease of SAR 43.5 billion by 37.7%. On the other hand, the decline of non-oil exports was the main driver of merchandise exports decline. According to the publication's results, the value of non-oil exports (including re-export) in May 2023 amounted to SAR 25.1 billion, compared to SAR 27.5 billion in May 2022, with a decrease of SAR 2.4 billion, by 8.7%.  However, the value of merchandise imports of Saudi Arabia in May 2023 amounted to SAR 67.7 billion, compared to SAR 56.0 billion in May 2022, with an increase of SAR 11.7 billion, by 20.9%.  It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced that during the month of May 2023, the Industrial Production Index reached 1.2% compared to the same month of last year, with a slight decrease that resulted from the decline of mining and quarrying activity, which contributed directly to the decrease of the general index.   the Industrial Production Publication revealed the increase of the sub-index of manufacturing activity by 10.3% compared to the same month of last year (May 2022). However, the sub-index of electricity and gas supply activity increased by 12.0%.  The publication also indicated a decrease on the sub-index of mining and quarrying activity during the month of May 2023 by 5.5% compared to the same month of last year (May 2022).  It is noteworthy the Industrial Production Index (IPI) is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the Industrial Production Survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

Merchandise exports in May 2023 amounted to SAR 97.1 billion, compared to SAR 143.0 billion in May 2022, with a decrease of SAR 45.9 billion or 32.1%, according to GASTAT's report.   The publication indicated that the value of oil exports in May 2023 recorded SAR 72.0 billion compared to SAR 115.5 billion in May 2022, with a decrease of SAR 43.5 billion by 37.7%. On the other hand, the decline of non-oil exports was the main driver of merchandise exports decline. According to the publication's results, the value of non-oil exports (including re-export) in May 2023 amounted to SAR 25.1 billion, compared to SAR 27.5 billion in May 2022, with a decrease of SAR 2.4 billion, by 8.7%.  However, the value of merchandise imports of Saudi Arabia in May 2023 amounted to SAR 67.7 billion, compared to SAR 56.0 billion in May 2022, with an increase of SAR 11.7 billion, by 20.9%.  It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced that during the month of May 2023, the Industrial Production Index reached 1.2% compared to the same month of last year, with a slight decrease that resulted from the decline of mining and quarrying activity, which contributed directly to the decrease of the general index.   the Industrial Production Publication revealed the increase of the sub-index of manufacturing activity by 10.3% compared to the same month of last year (May 2022). However, the sub-index of electricity and gas supply activity increased by 12.0%.  The publication also indicated a decrease on the sub-index of mining and quarrying activity during the month of May 2023 by 5.5% compared to the same month of last year (May 2022).  It is noteworthy the Industrial Production Index (IPI) is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the Industrial Production Survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

General Authority for Statistics announced today that the total number of pilgrims for this year amounted to (1,845,045) pilgrims. Number of external pilgrims arriving from various ports was (1,660,915), while the number of internal pilgrims reached (184,130) citizens and residents. According to its statistical results for Hajj 1444 H, GASTAT indicated that the number of male pilgrims out of the general total number of internal and external pilgrims amounted to (969,694) pilgrims, while the number of female pilgrims reached (875,351). Regarding the statistics of external pilgrims, GASTAT indicated that the number of pilgrims from Arab countries reached (346,214) or (21%). Number of pilgrims from African countries other than Arab countries was (221,863) or (13.4%), while the number of pilgrims from Europe, America, Australia and other unclassified countries reached (36,521) or (2.1%). As for the ways of arrival, (1,593,271) pilgrims arrived through airports, (60,813) pilgrims arrived through land ports, and (6,831) pilgrims arrived through seaports. GASTAT noted that the number of countries benefiting from Makkah Route initiative was 7 countries, where the number of beneficiaries from this initiative reached (242,272) pilgrims. Travel procedures for all pilgrims benefiting from the initiative have been completed after checking health requirements, and their luggage has been transported directly from their countries of departure to their place of residence. It should be noted that GASTAT relied on administrative records data to issue statistical data and indicators for Hajj season 1444 AH / 2023, as a main source of data represented by all government and private entities concerned with serving pilgrims to provide data according to a unified form that includes a number of elements as an extension of the statistical approach that was followed during the past three years. Hajj statistics publication shows the total number of pilgrims, and their distribution according to sex, nationality, and way of arrival. It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well. On the other hand, GASTAT's President, Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Dossari, on behalf of all GASTAT's employees, expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister - may Allah protect them - for everything that was provided to pilgrims, asking Allah Almighty to accept their Hajj, and to help all government entities in Saudi Arabia to provide distinguished services to pilgrims. To view the executive summary of Hajj statistics 1444 AH, please visit the following link: https://www.stats.gov.sa/system/tdf/file_manger/Hajj%20Report%201444H-EN...

The General Authority for Statistics organized a virtual webinar on the Saudi Census 2022, with the participation of a number of GASTAT employees and international experts, to introduce the census methodology and the efforts made in its implementation, after announcing the results of the first phase of the Saudi Census 2022, which included demographics, households and housing. In the course of the webinar, the participating international experts confirmed that the Saudi census 2022 is one of the most powerful population censuses that have been implemented recently in the Arab region and the Middle East due to the combination between register-based data and field enumeration. They pointed out that the high level of integration and participation between government entities, and the development of digital infrastructure in Saudi Arabia contributed to achieving data quality, making it a pioneering experience in the framework of combining and comparing multiple sources. The webinar addressed several axes, most notably the statistical methodology that was used in the Saudi census 2022, which international experts described as a professional methodology. It went through several stages, beginning with the preparation of the census project, then collecting, analyzing, and processing statistical data, and finally extracting and publishing the results in line with international best practices. The webinar discussed the technical aspect of the Saudi census 2022, and the impact of the great development in the digital infrastructure witnessed by Saudi Arabia with the launch of Vision 2030. This helped in raising GASTAT’s technical capabilities, as the latest modern technologies were used in the census project, such as self-enumeration. Field enumeration process relied on geospatial data, using satellite images with the aim of improving geographical coverage, accuracy of sorting addresses, and ensuring that no dwelling was overlooked during enumeration. Satellites have also contributed to verifying dwellings data with high accuracy. The webinar included a discussion of the main quality standards that were applied in the data collection phase to ensure coverage of the entire population, and comparisons between what was applied in the Saudi census 2022 and the procedures used in a number of countries of the world, including the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and Australia, in addition to talking about the pivotal role GASTAT undertakes to maintain the highest levels of confidentiality and privacy for individuals and to protect their personal data that they provided during the data collection phase. The webinar revealed that GASTAT has allocated an integrated team to review and audit the data, and made more than a million calls to ensure the quality of work, in addition to carrying out (900,000) additional field visits to ensure the accuracy and quality of the data collected. It also compared five different sources of data and reviewed them through 200 indicators of data quality. This had a great impact in providing an accurate population database that will be used as a reliable basis for developing economic and social policies. The webinar emphasized that this reflects the importance of the census project in providing accurate and reliable data and various statistical indicators on the demographics of Saudi Arabia that support decision-makers and contribute to the development of plans and policy-making in all sectors and fields.

General Authority for Statistics announced that the total number of pilgrims during 2022 reached (24,715,307), including 9,517,829 pilgrims who performed Umrah for one time. Total number of external Umrah performers reached (8,372,429), where males reached 3,700,785, by 44.20%, and female reached (4,671,644), representing 55.80%. However, total number of internal Umrah performers reached (16,342,878), where the number of Saudis among them recorded (6,642,881), representing 40.65%, and the number of non-Saudi pilgrims reached (9,699,997), representing 59.35%. Total number of internal male pilgrims made up(11,033,994) with a percentage of 67.52%, while the number of female pilgrims reached (5,308,884) with a percentage of 32.48%. April was the most intense month during the year in terms of the number of pilgrims, recording (5,479,637). However, Makkah region was the largest in terms of the total number of internal pilgrims, recording (10,270,637). Regarding Hajj statistics during the past year (1443 / 2022), the total number of pilgrims reached (926, 062), where external pilgrims, who came through various ports, recorded (781,409) with a percentage of 84.4%, while the number of internal pilgrims reached (144,653) representing 15 ,6%. GASTAT’s statistics indicated- in its statistical results for Hajj season during the past year 1443- that the number of internal male pilgrims reached (77,776) pilgrims, while the number of females reached (66,877) pilgrims. However, the number of external male pilgrims and female pilgrims reached (421,999) and (359,410), respectively.  According to GASTAT, the percentage of pilgrims coming to KSA via air transportation amounted to 94.7%, and land transportation accounted for 4.5%, out of total pilgrims . However, sea transportation was least used by external pilgrims by 0.8%. GASTAT indicated that the total number of workforce participated to service pilgrims and Umrah performers during the past year 1443  from various government and private sectors exceeded 236 thousand male and female employees, including 73,556 from public services sector, 26,392 from medical services sector, 19,421 from transportation services sector and 3,728  from telecommunications sector. With regard to medical services provided to pilgrims during Hajj season last year 1443, the number of medical facilities and teams within the scope of Makkah, Madinah, and Holy Sites reached 900 that provided emergency and inpatient services to more than 22,000 pilgrims. Moreover, cardiac catheterization services, kidney dialysis and other surgical operations were conducted to 1,904 pilgrims, and vaccination campaigns were implemented to pilgrims, workers and residents of Makkah region with 120,423 thousand doses. It should be noted that GASTAT relied on administrative records data that are used as main source of data while issuing statistical data and indicators of Hajj and Umrah for 1443 /2022 and represented in all government and private entities, including data for Hajj permits for internal pilgrims and for those hold Hajj visa to count the number of pilgrims. Data was also provided according to a unified form that includes a number of elements such as data of workforce and medical services of entities participated to service pilgrims and Umrah performers, according to temporal and spatial reference.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued, on its official website the results of the Industrial Production Index (IPI) for April 2023. (IPI) increased by 3.2% in April 2023. This increase resulted from the increase in mining, quarrying, manufacturing, in addition to electricity and gas supply activity. The mining and quarrying activity index increased by 0.2 % in April 2023, compared to the same month of the previous year (April 2022). Manufacturing activity also increased by 10.5% in April 2023, compared to April 2022. However, electricity and gas supply went up by 25.5%, compared to April 2022. It is noteworthy that GASTAT issues a number of Industry-related statistical products, including the industrial production index (IPI), which is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the industrial production survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued the report of Gross Domestic Product and National Accounts Indicators for the first quarter of 2023. According to estimates, the real GDP increased by 3.8% in Q1/2023 compared to the same period of last year 2022. During the first quarter of 2023, non-oil activities achieved a growth of 5.4% compared to the same period of last year 2022, according to the report’s results. Government activities increased by 4.9%, and oil activities also increased by 1.4% compared to the same period of last year.  The seasonally adjusted real GDP decreased by 1.4% in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the fourth quarter of 2022, the publication indicated.  It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all statistical information and data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

General Authority for Statistics issued Saudi Arabia's International Trade Publication for Q1 of 2023. According to the publication, the value of merchandise exports of Saudi Arabia during Q1 of 2023 amounted to SAR 313.5 billion, compared to SAR 367.1 billion during Q1 of 2022, with a decrease of SAR 53.6 billion, by 14.6%. The publication indicated that the value of oil exports in March 2023 recorded 245,4 billion SAR compared to 288,5 billion SAR in March 2022 during Q1, with a decrease of 43,1 billion SAR by 14.9%. On the other hand, the decline of non-oil exports was the main driver of merchandise exports decline. According to the publication's results, the value of non-oil exports (including re-export) during March 2023 amounted to SAR 68,1 billion SAR, compared to SAR 78,6 billion SAR during March 2022, with a decrease of SAR 10,5 billion SAR, by 13.3%. While the value of imports during Q1 of 2023 amounted to 186.4 billion SAR, compared to 157.9 billion SAR during Q1 of 2022 , with an increase of (28.5 billion) twenty-eight billion five hundred million SAR, by (18.0%). It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued, on its official website www.stats.gov.sa, the results of the Industrial Production Index (IPI) for March 2023. (IPI) increased by 4.1% in March 2023, compared to March 2022, according to the publication. This increase mainly originated from the increase in mining, quarrying,  manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply activity. Mining and quarrying activity index increased by 1.6% in March 2023, compared to the same month in the previous year (March 2022). Manufacturing activity also increased by 10.5% in March 2023, compared to March 2022. Electricity and gas supply went up by 16.6% compared to March 2022, according to the monthly publication. It is noteworthy that GASTAT issues a number of Industry-related statistical products, including the industrial production index (IPI), which is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the industrial production survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

General Authority for Statistics issued Saudi Arabia's International Trade Publication for Q1 of 2023. According to the publication, the value of merchandise exports of Saudi Arabia during Q1 of 2023 amounted to SAR 313.5 billion, compared to SAR 367.1 billion during Q1 of 2022, with a decrease of SAR 53.6 billion, by 14.6%. The publication indicated that the value of oil exports in March 2023 recorded 245,4 billion SAR compared to 288,5 billion SAR in March 2022 during Q1, with a decrease of 43,1 billion SAR by 14.9%. On the other hand, the decline of non-oil exports was the main driver of merchandise exports decline. According to the publication's results, the value of non-oil exports (including re-export) during March 2023 amounted to SAR 68,1 billion SAR, compared to SAR 78,6 billion SAR during March 2022, with a decrease of SAR 10,5 billion SAR, by 13.3%. While the value of imports during Q1 of 2023 amounted to 186.4 billion SAR, compared to 157.9 billion SAR during Q1 of 2022 , with an increase of (28.5 billion) twenty-eight billion five hundred million SAR, by (18.0%). It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued, on its official website www.stats.gov.sa, today, March 9, 2023, the results of the Industrial Production Index (IPI) for January 2023. Industrial Production Index (IPI) increased by 6.8% in January 2023, compared to January 2022, according to the publication. This increase mainly originated from the increase in mining, quarrying, and manufacturing activity. Mining and quarrying activity index increased by 3% in January 2023, compared to the same month in the previous year (January 2022). Manufacturing activity also increased by 19.2% in January 2023, compared to January 2022. Electricity and gas supply decreased by 3.4% compared to January 2022, according to the monthly publication. It is noteworthy that GASTAT issues a number of Industry-related statistical products, including the industrial production index (IPI), which is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the industrial production survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued, on its official website www.stats.gov.sa, today, February 9, 2023, the results of the industrial production index (IPI) for December 2022. The publication results showed that during December 2022, IPI increased by 7.3% compared to the same month in the previous year (December 2021), as a result of the increase in mining, quarrying, and manufacturing activity. The results of the index's monthly publication revealed that the mining and quarrying activity index for December 2022 increased by 4.1% compared to the same month in the previous year (December 2021). Manufacturing activity also increased by 18.5% in December 2022 compared to the same month in the previous year (December 2021), while electricity and gas supply activity decreased by 6.5% compared to December 2021. According to the report's results, the industrial production index recorded positive growth rates during the year 2022, due to the increase in mining and quarrying activity as well as manufacturing activity. It is noteworthy that GASTAT issues a number of Industry-related statistical products, including the industrial production index (IPI), which is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the industrial production survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

General Authority for Statistics issued on its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, 8 February 2023, the research and development statistics publication for 2021. Based on the results of the publication, total expenditure on research and development amounted to 14.5 billion SAR, while the numbers of workers in this field reached 30,220 workers, and the number of researchers recorded 24,808 researchers during 2021. The government sector recorded the highest percentage in terms of expenditure on research and development by (50%) of total expenditure, followed by the private sector by (35%). As for the education sector, the percentage of expenditure reached (15%). However, the workers in the education sector achieved the largest percentage in the field of research and development, reaching (83%), with 25,178 workers. At the level of the government sector, the number of workers recorded 2,967 workers, with (10%) of total workers; while the private sector ranked last with 2,075 workers by (7%) during 2021, according to the publication. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued on its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, 31 January 2023, the flash estimates report on GDP growth rate for the year 2022 and flash estimates of GDP for the fourth quarter of 2022. According to flash estimates, the real GDP during the fourth quarter of 2022 grew by 5.4% compared to Q4/2021, and the real GDP during the year 2022 grew by 8.7% compared to the previous year 2021. The results of the report indicated that the real GDP of oil activities grew by 6.1% during the fourth quarter of the year 2022, compared to the same quarter of the previous year 2021. Real GDP of oil activities during the year 2022 grew by 15.4% compared to the previous year 2021.  Real GDP of non-oil activities grew by 6.2% compared to the same quarter of the previous year. Real GDP of non-oil activities during the year 2022 grew by 5.4% compared to the previous year 2021. The results of the report showed that the seasonally adjusted real GDP increased by 1.5% during the fourth quarter of 2022, compared to the third quarter of 2022. It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued on its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, 19 January 2023, the real estate price index results for Q4 of 2022. The general real estate price index for Q4 of 2022 increased by 1.6% compared to Q4 of 2021; this increase is attributed to the increase in residential real estate prices by +2.6%. The increase in residential land prices is the main driver of real estate prices in Q4 of 2022 compared to Q4 of 2021. The residential sector recorded an increase of 2.6%, where the prices of residential land plots went up by 2.7% given the heavy weight of the prices of the residential sector, which had a significant impact on the increase in the general index. As for other residential real estate, the prices of villas increased by 1.7%, and apartments by 2.2%, while house prices decreased by 0.4%. The prices of residential buildings were stable. Commercial sector went down by 0.2%, due to the decrease in the prices of commercial lands by (-0.2%), and the prices of exhibitions decreased by 2.3%, while the prices of commercial buildings remained stable and did not record any relative change. The prices of commercial centers increased by 0.1%, however, the agricultural sector decreased by 0.8%, affected by the drop in agricultural land prices by (-0.8%), according to the publication’s results. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued, on its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, 10 January 2023, the results of the industrial production index (IPI) for November 2022. The publication results showed that during November 2022, IPI increased by 8.6% compared to the same month in the last year (November 2021), as a result of the increase in mining, quarrying, and manufacturing activity. The results of the index's monthly publication revealed that the mining and quarrying activity index for November 2022 increased by 5.7% compared to the same month in the last year (November 2021), manufacturing activity also increased by 19.7% in November 2022 compared to the same month in the last year (November 2021), while electricity and gas supply activity showed a decrease of 10.9% compared to November 2021. According to the report's results, the annual growth rate in the index was positive in November 2022, and the industrial production index achieved positive growth rates during the previous months, due to the increase in the mining and quarrying activity as well as the manufacturing activity. It is noteworthy that GASTAT issues a number of Industry-related statistical products, including the industrial production index (IPI), which is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the industrial production survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

The GCC countries celebrate the Gulf Statistics Day, which is marked on 24 December 2022 under the theme "Statistics for Sustainable Opportunities". The event comes within the framework of enhancing the statistical work aimed at providing statistical data that support development plans and achieve the goals of development visions of the GCC countries. The GCC Statistics Day is an important occasion in which the statistical bodies, centers and offices of the GCC countries renew their interest in statistical work and confirm its vital role in setting plans and programs for comprehensive sustainable development. It is worth mentioning that the Saudi statistical work has started in a very early era of the Saudi development history. It has started in 1349H /1930 and became an organized work that refers technically and administratively to the General Statistics System issued by the Royal Decree No. (23) dated 7/12/1379H -1/6/1960. The General Statistics System has played a vital role to organize the statistics sector by controlling the relationship between the Central Department of Statistics and Information and other agencies, until the issuance of the Royal Decree in 1436H to transform the Central Department of Statistics and Information into a public authority called the General Authority for Statistics which enjoys a legal personality, and financial and administrative independence. In 1437H, the organization of the General Authority for Statistics was approved, whose articles stated that the General Authority for Statistics is the entity that shall be responsible for technical and organizational supervision of the statistics sector and shall form a comprehensive system of national statistical databases for various fields. The Authority has been entrusted with organizing and supervising the statistical sector, in order to enable it and enhance its awareness. During the 141st session of the Ministerial Council of GCC which was held in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain in 24 November 2016, a day for the Gulf Statistics Day was allocated to be held every year. The importance of this day is emphasizing the partnership of society in all its categories with statisticians, and shedding light on the vital role played by statistics in achieving sustainable development in the GCC countries. It also shows the strategic role played by the Gulf statistical system in making decisions and building development policies.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued on its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, 25 January 2023, the Saudi Arabia’s International Trade Publication for the month of November 2022. The value of Saudi Arabia’s merchandise exports amounted to (113 billion riyals) one hundred thirteen billion riyals in November 2022, compared to (109 billion riyals) one hundred nine billion riyals in November 2021, with an increase of (4 billion riyals) four billion riyals, by (3.6%). However, the value of petroleum exports recorded (90 billion riyals) ninety billion riyals in November 2022, compared to (81 billion riyals) eighty-one billion riyals in November 2021, with an increase of (9 billion riyals) nine billion riyals, by (11.1%), according to the publication. The value of non-oil exports (including re-exports) in November 2022 amounted to (23 billion riyals) twenty-three billion riyals, compared to (28 billion riyals) twenty-eight billion riyals in November 2021, with a decrease of (5 billion riyals) five billion riyals, by (19.7%( .The value of Saudi Arabia’s merchandise imports in November 2022 amounted to (63 billion riyals) sixty-three billion riyals, compared to (50 billion riyals) fifty billion riyals in November 2021, with an increase of (13 billion riyals) thirteen billion riyals, by (26.0%), the results of the publication noted. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

The General Authority for Statistics and SDAIA signed a MoU to enhance cooperation between the two parties, in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Faisal bin Fadel Al-Ibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning, Chairman of the Board of Directors of GASTAT, His Excellency the President of SDAIA, Dr. Abdullah bin Sharaf Al-Ghamdi, and His Excellency the Director of the National Information Center, Dr. Essam bin Abdullah Al-Waqeet. The agreement was signed at the headquarters of the Ministry of Economy and Planning in Riyadh by His Excellency Dr. Fahd bin Abdullah Al-Dossari, President of GASTAT, and His Excellency Dr. Mashari bin Ibrahim Al-Mashari, Deputy Director of the National Information Center. The memorandum of understanding stems from the belief of the two parties in the importance of government integration in order to achieve the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. The memorandum aims to exchange expertise to support the competitive position of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the field of data, and raise the levels of harmony between statistical and record data in order to support policies and research in various development fields. The memorandum also aims to reach a knowledge-based economy and society through joint coordination in order to raise the quality and quantity of indicators, statistics and data related to developmental aspects, and to support decision-making based on scientific methodologies and accurate data based on evidence.  The memorandum of understanding also contributes to the formation of a comprehensive system of databases and statistical information in accordance with international standards. It also emphasizes on raising the level of cooperation in awareness-raising programs, organizing courses and workshops between the two parties, in addition to exchanging knowledge, expertise and skills, and training employees.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued on its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, 22 December 2022, the international trade publication of Saudi Arabia for October 2022. The value of merchandise exports in Saudi Arabia during October 2022 reached (121 billion riyals) one hundred and twenty-one billion riyals, compared to (106 billion riyals) one hundred and six billion riyals in October 2021, with an increase of (15 billion riyals) fifteen billion riyals, a percentage of (14.2%), according to the data contained in this publication. The value of oil exports during October 2022 reached (96 billion riyals) ninety-six billion riyals, compared to (82 billion riyals) eighty-two billion riyals during October 2021, with an increase of (14 billion riyals) fourteen billion riyals, a percentage of (17.1%). The value of non-oil exports (including re-exports) during October 2022 reached (25 billion riyals) twenty-five billion riyals, compared to (24 billion riyals) twenty-four billion riyals during October 2021, with an increase of (1 billion riyals) one billion riyals, a percentage of (4.2%), the publication results noted. The value of merchandise imports in Saudi Arabia during October 2022 reached (67 billion riyals) sixty-seven billion riyals, compared to (46 billion riyals) forty-six billion riyals during October 2021, with an increase of (21 billion riyals) twenty-one billion riyals, a percentage of (45.7%). General Authority for Statistics is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, and analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are also extracted as well.

On Thursday, 8 December 2022, General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released on its official website www.stats.gov.sa the report of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and National Accounts Indicators for the third quarter of 2022. According to the estimates, real GDP recorded an increase by (8.8%), compared to the same period of last year 2021. The real GDP of oil activities grew by (14.2%) compared to Q3 of 2021. Moreover, real GDP of non-oil activities recorded an increase by (6.0%) compared to the same period of 2021. Seasonally adjusted real GDP increased by (2.1%) during Q3 of 2022, compared to Q2 of 2022, the publication’s results noted It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

Today 11 December 2022, General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released on its official website www.stats.gov.sa industrial production index’s results for October 2022. The industrial production index for October 2022 increased by 14.1% compared to October 2021, as a result of the rise in the activity of mining and quarrying and the activity of manufacturing, according to the results of the publication.   The index of mining and quarrying activity for October 2022 went up by 12.0%, compared to October 2021, and the manufacturing activity for October 2022 increased by 23.2 % compared to the same month of last year. However, the activity of electricity and gas supply decreased by 1.8%, compared to October 2021. The general industrial production index for October 2022 increased by 0.3% compared to September 2022, due to the increase in manufacturing activity which went up by 5% during October 2022. On the other hand, the mining and quarrying activity and electricity and gas supply activity decreased by 0.7% and 11%, respectively, the publication’s results noted. GASTAT issues a number of Industry-related statistical products, including industrial production index (IPI), which is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the industrial production survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in targeted activities, such as: activities of mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

On Thursday November 24, 2022, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued the International Trade Publication in Saudi Arabia for the month of September 2022, on its official website www.stats.gov.sa The publication results indicated an increase in the value of merchandise exports in Saudi Arabia during September 2022, where it reached (125 billion riyals), compared to (95 billion riyals) during September 2021, an increase of (30 billion riyals), by 30.9%. According to the publication results, the value of oil exports during September 2022 reached (100 billion riyals), compared to (70 billion riyals) during September 2021, with an increase of (30 billion riyals), a percentage of 43.4%. The value of non-oil exports (including re-exports) during September 2022 reached (24 billion riyals), compared to (25 billion riyals) during September 2021, with a decrease of (1 billion riyals), a percentage of 3.4%, according to the publication. The value of merchandise imports in Saudi Arabia during September 2022 reached (60 billion riyals), compared to (47 billion riyals) during September 2021, with an increase of (13 billion riyals), a percentage of 26.9%. On the other hand, the publication results indicated an increase in non-oil merchandise exports in Saudi Arabia by 13.1% during the third quarter of 2022. According to the publication results, the value of merchandise exports in Saudi Arabia during the third quarter of 2022 amounted to (400 billion riyals), compared to (274 billion riyals) during the third quarter of 2021, with an increase of (126 billion riyals), by 46.1%. The publication results stated that the value of oil exports during the third quarter of 2022 amounted to (321 billion riyals), compared to (204 billion riyals) during the third quarter of 2021, with an increase of (117 billion riyals), by 57.3%. According to the publication results, the value of non-oil exports (including re-exports) during the third quarter of 2022 amounted to (78 billion riyals), compared to (69 billion riyals) during the third quarter of 2021, with a decrease of (9 billion riyals), by 13.1%. The value of merchandise imports during the third quarter of 2022 reached (181 billion riyals), compared to (145 billion riyals) during the third quarter of 2021, with an increase of (36 billion riyals), a percentage of 25.1%. It is noteworthy that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well. .

On Thursday November 10, 2022, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) revealed the results of Industrial Production Index (IPI) for the month of September 2022. The publication results showed that during September 2022, IPI increased by 15.7% compared to the same month of last year (September 2021). This increase can be attributed to the increase in mining, quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply. According to the monthly publication results, the index of mining and quarrying increased by 14.2% in September 2022, compared to the same month of last year (September 2021). The manufacturing activity increased by 22% in September 2022, compared to the same month of last year (September 2021). The electricity and gas supply also increased by 5.5% in September 2022, compared to August 2022. The results of the report indicated that the growth rate has been positive since May 2021, continuing the upward trend during the following months, and the growth accelerated at the end of 2021 after a series of months in which growth rates declined in 2019 and 2020, partially affected by the global pandemic. It is noteworthy that GASTAT issues a number of Industry-related statistical products, including the Industrial Production Index (IPI), which is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the industrial production survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

General Authority for Statistics has released on its official website www.stats.gov.sa the results of air and water traffic statistics publications at Saudi Arabia’s airports and ports during 2021. Total number of domestic and international flights (arriving and departing) in all airports in Saudi Arabia during 2021 reached nearly 497 thousand flights, with an increase by 43% compared to 2020, through which about 49 million passengers were transported, with an increase of 30% compared to 2020. The share of Saudi airlines was about 40 million passengers with an increase of 81.6% of total passengers, based on the publication of air traffic statistics. The number of arriving and departing international flights in 2021 went up by 20% compared to 2020. The number of arriving and departing domestic flights increased by 53% compared to 2020, according to the publication’s results. The number of passengers transported by arriving and departing domestic flights in 2021 increased by 45% compared to 2020. The number of passengers transported by arriving and departing international flights recorded an increase of 4% compared to 2020. Air freight traffic recorded an increase of 53% in 2021, compared to 2020, the publication noted. On the other hand, ship traffic in Saudi ports rose by 7% in 2021 compared to 2020, according to the water traffic statistics publication. Total number of passengers traveling through ports in Saudi Arabia increased by 33% compared to 2020 due to the increase in Jazan Port by 71% of total number of passengers traveling through all Saudi Arabi’s ports. Total volume of goods unloaded at all ports in Saudi Arabia reached 119.8 million tons in 2021. Total capacity of all Saudi ports was 601 million tons, whereas the percentage of goods unloaded at commercial ports in 2021 dropped by 18% compared to 2020. It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, and documents and archives all work of information and statistical data covering all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

On Monday October 31, 2022, General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released on its official website www.stats.gov.sa  the report of flash estimates of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rates for the third quarter of 2022. According to the estimates, real GDP increased by 8.6% during the third quarter of 2022 compared to the same period of last year 2021. The publication results indicated that the real GDP of oil activities achieved a positive growth of 14.5% during the third quarter of 2022, compared to the same period of last year 2021. Moreover, real GDP of non-oil activities recorded an increase by 5.9% compared the same period of last year. The publication results showed that the seasonally adjusted real GDP increased by 1.3% during the third quarter of 2022, compared to the second quarter of 2022. It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued on its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, 25 October 2022, the International Trade Publication of Saudi Arabia for August 2022. Value of merchandise exports in Saudi Arabia during August 2022 reached (134 billion riyals), compared to (90 billion riyals) in August 2021, with an increase of (44 billion riyals), a percentage of 49.1%, according to the data contained in this publication. Value of oil exports during August 2022 reached (107 billion riyals), compared to (67 billion riyals) during August 2021, with an increase of (40 billion riyals), a percentage of 60.2%. Value of non-oil exports (including re-exports) during August 2022 reached (27 billion riyals), compared to (23 billion riyals) during August 2021, with an increase of (4 billion riyals), a percentage of 16.6%, the publication results noted. Value of merchandise imports in Saudi Arabia during August 2022 reached (61 billion riyals), compared to (51 billion riyals) during August 2021, with an increase of (10 billion riyals), a percentage of 20.0%. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released on Wednesday, 19 October 2022 the results of the Real Estate Price Index for Q3 of 2022, and published it on its official website www.stats.gov.sa  The Publication’s results indicated a 1.5% increase in the general real estate price index for Q3 of 2022, compared to the same quarter of the previous year 2021, mainly due to the increase in residential real estate prices of +2.5%.   According to the Publication’s results, the increase in residential land prices largely affected the increase in real estate prices in Q3 of 2022, compared to Q2 of 2021. Residential sector recorded a 2.5% increase affected by a 2.6% increase in the residential land plots prices, on an annual basis in Q3 of 2022, due to its high relative importance in the general index. Among other residential real estate prices, the prices of villas and apartments increased by 0.2% and 1.0% respectively, whereas houses decreased by 0.7%.  However, the prices of residential buildings stabilized and did not record any significant changes. Commercial sector recorded a 0.4% decrease, due to the decrease in the prices of commercial lands plots by -0.4%. The prices of galleries also decreased by 1.5%, while the prices of commercial centers increased by 0.2%. On the other hand, the commercial buildings prices stabilized and did not record any significant changes. Agriculture sector decreased by 0.6% affected by the decrease in agriculture land prices by -0.6%. It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

The ninth meeting of the GCC Permanent Committee for Statistical Affairs was held today in Jeddah, chaired by Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, the President of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) in Saudi Arabia. The meeting aimed to strengthen joint efforts among GCC member states in the field of statistics.

On the sidelines of the meeting, a joint workshop was organized to enhance performance in terms of the availability and exchange of statistical data among member states and to advance the implementation of the strategic statistical plan.

During the meeting, the committee members discussed several topics aimed at promoting cooperation among GCC countries to advance the statistical sector. They emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to achieve strategic support and coordination in statistical activities. The agenda included a review of the progress in implementing recommendations from the previous meeting, continued study of statistical indicators to measure the implementation of Supreme Council decisions, and the importance of fostering knowledge development for staff in statistical agencies. The discussion also focused on enhancing skills, sharing expertise, activating joint cooperation mechanisms, and addressing global developments and common challenges facing statistical work across the GCC countries.

The Saudi Arabia Ministry of Economy and Planning (MEP) and the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance the use of data in the development of economic policies. The MOU establishes a framework for data and knowledge sharing between the two partners, as well as sharing enhanced statistical, scientific, and economic analysis. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Eng. Ammar Nagadi, the Vice Minister of Economy and Planning, and Dr. Fahad Aldossari, President of GASTAT. Commenting on the MOU, His Excellency Faisal Alibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning and Chairman of GASTAT said “Both the Ministry and GASTAT are committed to supporting the public and private sector in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. A deep understanding of our data is key to ensure we are pulling the right levers to drive the Kingdom’s economic diversification journey and facilitating economic growth for all.” Alibrahim added “This agreement is a key milestone in our strong, and essential, partnership. It will enable us to publish a range of statistics, indicators, and products to support and empower policy and decision makers as well as assist the public in understanding policy priorities.” Dr. Fahad Aldosari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, said: “This agreement consolidates the framework of cooperation between the Ministry and GASTAT and ensures we are delivering access to high-quality and reliable data on which future decisions for developing procedures and policies that will help us achieve the ambitions of the Saudi Vision 2030”. The MOU comes as part of the efforts of MEP and GASTAT to support the development of statistical work and provide a new statistical dimension in the Kingdom, by benefiting from scientific and knowledge expertise in a way that contributes to achieving the goals of the Saudi Vision 2030.

On Thursday September 29, 2022, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued the Labor Market Publication for the second quarter of 2022, on its official website www.stats.gov.sa According to the Publication results, the Saudi unemployment rate has decreased to 9.7% in the second quarter of 2022, compared to 10.1% in the first quarter of 2022. The total unemployment rate (for Saudis and non-Saudis) has decreased to 5.8% in the second quarter, compared to 6.0% in the first quarter of 2022. The unemployment rate for Saudi females has also decreased in the second quarter of 2022, reaching 19.3% compared to 20.2% in the previous quarter, and the unemployment rate for Saudi males has decreased in the second quarter of 2022, reaching 4.7% compared to 5.1% in the previous quarter. The labor force indicators in the second quarter of 2022 showed an increase in the total labor force participation rate (for Saudis and non-Saudis) as it has reached 60.8% compared to 60.4% in the first quarter of 2022.The Saudi labor force participation rate has also increased in the second quarter of 2022, reaching 51.8% compared to 50.1% in the previous quarter. The Labor Market Publication results for the second quarter of 2022 indicated an increase in the labor force participation rate for Saudi females in the second quarter of 2022, reaching 35.6% compared to 33.6% in the previous quarter. The labor force participation rate for Saudi males has also increased in the second quarter of 2022, reaching 67.5% compared to 66.0% in the previous quarter. GASTAT indicated that the Labor Market Publication's results depend on a household survey conducted by GASTAT that falls under the classification of (social statistics). In this survey, the information is collected through a sample representing households from the administrative regions in Saudi Arabia, and an electronic questionnaire containing a number of questions. This survey provides estimates and indicators related to the labor force of the working-age population of the age group (15 years and over) who settle in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It also provides an estimate of the population (inside and outside the labor force), as well as calculating the most important labor market indicators, such as the unemployment rate, labor force participation rate, and others.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued on its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, Wednesday, September 21, 2022, the International Trade Publication in Saudi Arabia for July 2022. According to the publication, the value of merchandise exports in Saudi Arabia during July 2022 reached (141 billion riyals) one hundred forty-one billion riyals, compared to (89 billion riyals) eighty-nine billion riyals in July 2021, with an increase of (52 billion riyals) fifty-two billion riyals, a percentage of 58.8%. The publication results indicated that the value of oil exports during July 2022 reached (114 billion riyals) one hundred fourteen billion riyals, compared to (67 billion riyals) sixty-seven billion riyals during July 2021, with an increase of (47 billion riyals) forty-seven billion riyals, a percentage of 68.9%. According to the publication's results, the value of non-oil exports (including re-exports) during July 2022 reached (27 billion riyals) twenty-seven billion riyals, compared to (21 billion riyals) twenty-one billion riyals during July 2021, with an increase of (6 billion riyals) six billion riyals, a percentage of 26.4%. The value of merchandise imports in Saudi Arabia during July 2022 reached (55 billion riyals) fifty-five billion riyals, compared to (47 billion riyals) forty-seven billion riyals during July 2021, with an increase of (8 billion riyals) eight billion riyals, a percentage of 18.3%. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, and documents and archives all works of information and statistical data covering all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

On Monday September 11, 2022, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) revealed the results of Industrial Production Index (IPI) for the month of July 2022.  The publication results showed that during July 2022, IPI increased by 17.7% compared to the same month of last year (July 2021). This increase can be attributed to the increase in mining, quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply. According to the monthly publication results, the index of mining and quarrying increased by 14.1% in July 2022, compared to the same month of last year (July 2021). The manufacturing activity increased by 32.6% in July 2022, compared to the same month of last year (July 2021). The electricity and gas supply also increased by 5% in July 2022, compared to July 2021.  The results of the report indicated an increase in the General Industrial Production Index (IPI) by 1.6% in July 2022, compared to June 2022, affected by the increase in mining and quarrying, which increased by a similar percentage in July 2022. The manufacturing and electricity and gas supply increased by 0.3% and 14.6%, respectively. GASTAT issues a number of Industry-related statistical products, including the Industrial Production Index (IPI), which is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the industrial production survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

On Wednesday September 7, 2022, General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released on its official website www.stats.gov.sa the report of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and National Accounts Indicators for the second quarter of 2022. According to the estimates, real GDP recorded an increase by (12.2%) during the second quarter of 2022 compared to the same period of last year 2021. It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

GASTAT issued today, Wednesday, Muharram 12, 1444 AH, corresponding to August 10, 2022, the results of the Industrial Production Index (IPI) in June 2022, and published it on its official website www.stats.gov.sa  The publication results revealed the increase of IPI in June 2022 by 20.8% compared to June 2021. This was due to the increase in mining, quarrying and manufacturing activities. The results of the monthly publication showed an increase in the index of mining and quarrying activity in June 2022 by 19.2% compared to the same month of the previous year 2021. In June 2022, the manufacturing activity index increased by 29.3% compared to June 2021, and the electricity and gas supply activity decreased by 1.2% compared to the same month of the previous year in 2021. According to the publication results, the general index of industrial production in June 2022 increased by 1.0% compared to May 2022, affected by the increase in mining and quarrying activity, which appeared to be high by 1.0%. The electricity and gas supplies activity increased by 9.3%, while the manufacturing activity stabilized at the same level of production compared to the previous month. GASTAT issues a number of Industry-related statistical products, including the Industrial Production Index (IPI), which is an economic indicator that reflects relative changes and evolution in the volume of industrial production quantities based on the data of the industrial production survey. It is implemented monthly and targets industrial establishments operating in the targeted activities, which are mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and electricity and gas supply.

GASTAT revealed on Monday, Muharram 3, 1444, corresponding to August 1, 2022, the results of the real estate price index for the second quarter of 2022, and published it on its official website www.stats.gov.sa The publication results indicated a 0.7% increase in the general real estate price index for the second quarter of 2022, compared to the same quarter of the previous year 2021, mainly due to increase in residential real estate prices of +1.9%. According to the publication results, the increase in residential land prices largely affected the increase in real estate prices in the second quarter of 2022, compared to the second quarter of 2021. The residential sector recorded a 1.9% increase affected by a 0.2% increase in the residential land plots prices, on an annual basis in the second quarter of 2022, due to its high relative importance in the general index. Among other residential real estate prices, the prices of villas, apartments, and houses decreased by 1.1%, 1.1% and 0.9% respectively.  However, the prices of residential buildings stabilized and did not record any significant changes. The commercial sector recorded a 1.5% decrease, impacted by the decrease in the prices of commercial lands plots by 1.5%.  The prices of galleries also decreased by 1.1%, while the prices of commercial centers increased by 0.1%. On the other hand, the commercial buildings prices stabilized and did not record any significant changes. The agriculture sector decreased by 0.6% affected by the decrease in agriculture land prices by -0.6%. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued on its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, Monday, Dhu al-Hijjah 26, 1443 AH, corresponding to July 25, 2022 AD, the International Trade Publication in Saudi Arabia for May 2022. Accordioning to the data contained in this publication, the value of merchandise exports in Saudi Arabia during May 2022 reached (144 billion riyals) one hundred and forty-four billion riyals, compared to (79 billion riyals) seventy-nine billion riyals May 2021, with an increase of (65 billion riyals) sixty-five billion riyals, a percentage of 83.4%. The publication results indicated that the value of oil exports during May 2022 reached (116 billion riyals) one hundred and sixteen billion riyals, compared to (57 billion riyals) fifty-seven billion riyals during May 2021, with an increase of (59 billion riyals) fifty-nine billion riyals, a percentage of 105.5%. According to the publication results, the value of non-oil exports (including re-exports) during May 2022 reached (28 billion riyals) twenty-eight billion riyals, compared to (22 billion riyals) twenty-two billion riyals during May 2021, with an increase of (6 billion riyals) six billion riyals, a percentage of 26.7%. The value of merchandise imports in Saudi Arabia during May 2022 reached (54 billion riyals) fifty-four billion riyals, compared to (44 billion riyals) forty-four billion riyals during May 2021, with an increase of (10 billion riyals) ten billion riyals, a percentage of 21.8%. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued through its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, Sunday 25/12/1443 AH corresponding to 07/24/2022 AD, the Publication of the Household Sports Practice Survey for the year 2021 AD. According to the publication results, the percentage of adults who practice physical activity (15 years and over) increased for at least 150 minutes per week during the year 2021 at the level of all regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to reach 29.7% compared to only 20% during the year 2019. This increase indicates the high awareness of society towards the practice of sports and physical activity, and indicates the provision of the basic capabilities required to help increase the time of exercise to raise the quality of life for the Kingdom’s population, which represents one of the axes of the Saudi Vision 2030. The indicator of practicing physical activity for at least 30 minutes per week is one of the indicators of the Quality of Life Program of the Vision Program, and it aims to promote the practice of sports activities in the community. The publication results showed that 48.2% of the Kingdom’s population practice physical activity for at least 30 minutes per week, an increase of 3.2 points compared to 2019, where the percentage was 45%. The results also showed a significant difference between the percentages of males and females who practiced physical activity for at least 30 minutes per week, as the percentage of males was 54.8%, and the percentage of females was only 38.3%. On the other hand, the World Health Organization recommends practicing physical activity, and confirms that individuals should practice moderate-intensity physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week, high-intensity physical activity for at least 75 minutes per week, or a combination of both. According to the publication results, the percentage of the population who practice physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reached 29.7%, an increase of 9.7 percentage points compared to 2019. The percentage of males who practice physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week was 36.1%, while the percentage of females was 20.3%. It is noteworthy that the publication results revealed a disparity between the regions of the Kingdom in terms of the percentages of adults who practice physical activity for at least 30 minutes per week, as the lowest percentage was 41.6% in Hail Region, while the highest percentage was 51.2% in the Eastern Region. The lowest percentage of adults who practice physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week was 24.3% in Al-Jouf Region, while the highest percentage was 32.9% in the Eastern Region. The publication results also showed that there is a gap between males and females who practice physical activity in different regions, where the lowest difference between males and females who practice physical activity for at least 30 minutes per week was in Hail Region which reached 12.6%, while the highest difference between males and females was in Tabuk Region which reached 20.1%. The results showed that the lowest difference between males and females who practice physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week was in Qassim Region with a percentage of 13.1%, and the highest difference was in the Northern Border Region, where it reached 18.9%.

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued, through its official website www.stats.gov.sa today, Thursday, 24 Dhu al-Qa’dah 1443, corresponding to June 23, 2022, Saudi Arabia's International Trade Publication for April 2022.   The value of the Saudi Arabia's merchandise exports during April 2022 amounted to (137,119 million) one hundred thirty-seven billion one hundred nineteen million Riyals, compared to (69,252 million) sixty-nine billion two hundred fifty-two million Riyals during April 2021, with an increase of (67,867 million) sixty-seven billion eight hundred sixty-seven million Riyals, by (98.0%), according to the data of the publication. The value of oil exports during April 2022 was (109,750 million) one hundred nine billion seven hundred fifty million Riyals, compared to (49,214 million) forty-nine billion two hundred fourteen million Riyals during April 2021, with an increase of (60,536 million) sixty billion five hundred thirty-six million riyals, by (123.0%) , the results indicated. The value of non-oil exports during April 2022 registered (27,370 million) twenty seven billion three hundred seventy million Riyals, compared to (20,038 million) twenty billion thirty-eight million Riyals during April 2021, with an increase of (7.331 million) seven billion three hundred thirty-one million riyals, by  (36.6%), according to the results. While the value of the Saudi Arabia's merchandise imports during April 2022 amounted to (55,274 million) fifty-five billion two hundred seventy-four million Riyals, compared to (49,703 million) forty-nine billion seven hundred three million Riyals during April 2021, with an increase of (5,572 million), five one billion five hundred seventy two million Riyals, by  (11.2%).

GASTAT's Board of Directors, headed by His Excellency the Minister of Economy and Planning, Mr. Faisal bin Fadhil Al-Ibrahim, issued a decision to appoint Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Al-Dossari as GASTAT's President, starting from today, Sunday, to lead the work in GASTAT in order to achieve the goals of transformation in GASTAT, and to complete the development of the system Statistical work. His Excellency the Minister expressed his congratulations to Dr. Al-Dossari on this occasion, wishing him success in leading GASTAT and achieving its goals during the next critical period of the strategic transformation phase. On behalf of the members of the Board, the Minister expressed his thanks to Dr. Konrad Pesendorfer for his efforts during his presidency, and for his role in upgrading the work in GASTAT, developing its statistical products, leading the transformation project, overcoming the challenges imposed by the COVID-19 during the past two years, and  implementing the Saudi Census Program 2022, looking forward to continuing his efforts as an advisor to the Chairman of GASTAT's Board of Directors. Dr. Al-Dossari has held a number of leadership positions, the last of which was Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Saudi Arabia, which included the areas of systems analysis, economic research, and statistics. He also had a membership in many governmental and professional committees along with boards of directors of local and international funds and banks. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

GASTAT revealed on Monday, Muharram 3, 1444, corresponding to August 1, 2022, the results of the real estate price index for the second quarter of 2022, and published it on its official website www.stats.gov.sa The publication results indicated a 0.7% increase in the general real estate price index for the second quarter of 2022, compared to the same quarter of the previous year 2021, mainly due to increase in residential real estate prices of +1.9%. According to the publication results, the increase in residential land prices largely affected the increase in real estate prices in the second quarter of 2022, compared to the second quarter of 2021. The residential sector recorded a 1.9% increase affected by a 0.2% increase in the residential land plots prices, on an annual basis in the second quarter of 2022, due to its high relative importance in the general index. Among other residential real estate prices, the prices of villas, apartments, and houses decreased by 1.1%, 1.1% and 0.9% respectively.  However, the prices of residential buildings stabilized and did not record any significant changes. The commercial sector recorded a 1.5% decrease, impacted by the decrease in the prices of commercial lands plots by 1.5%.  The prices of galleries also decreased by 1.1%, while the prices of commercial centers increased by 0.1%. On the other hand, the commercial buildings prices stabilized and did not record any significant changes. The agriculture sector decreased by 0.6% affected by the decrease in agriculture land prices by -0.6%. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

His Excellency the Minister of Economy and Planning, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority for Statistics, His Excellency – Faisal Al-Ibrahim – has launched the data collection phase for the Saudi Census 2022. The date of Monday evening, 8th Shawwal 1443 H, which corresponds to May 9th, 2022, was approved by Royal Decree last September as the census day for the General Population and Housing Census for 1443 H. His Excellency expressed his sincere gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister, for their kind guidance and their unlimited support for the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) to implement the Census. In his speech during the ceremony, which was held in Riyadh today, His Excellency praised the great efforts made by various government agencies in the Saudi Census 2022, contributing in various roles during its preparatory phases, and appreciating what their support and contribution in the coming phases. His Excellency Al-Ibrahim, referred to the transformation in the Kingdom under ‘Vision 2030’, pointing out that GASTAT provides accurate and reliable statistical data as a basic pillar for planning, development, creating economic and social policies, and developing plans for various sectors to achieve the Vision’s objectives and create a better future. He stressed that GASTAT conforms to the highest international standards and uses the latest techniques to issue statistical data, by integrating various administrative records, big data and statistical census information to provide accurate data. His Excellency explained that the Saudi Census 2022 is the first digital census in the history of the Kingdom, using a self-enumeration feature which allows heads of households to conveniently fill the census questionnaire on their own without the need for the census interviewer’s visit. In addition to self-enumeration, 30,000 census interviewers will visit households to collect information, all while upholding the highest levels of confidentiality. His Excellency also praised the wide participation of Saudi women in the Saudi Census 2022, whether through their leadership positions or by contributing in the field operation, stressing that it was an extension of the Kingdom’s approach to empowering women and increasing their contribution to the national economy. His Excellency Faisal Al-Ibrahim urged the Kingdom’s residents and citizens to participate in the census by completing its questionnaire through the various available options, considering it as a national duty, a societal responsibility, and an opportunity to build a better future for the Kingdom. The President of GASTAT, Dr. Konrad Pesendorfer clarified that the Saudi Census 2022 is the beginning of a new era of statistical knowledge in the Kingdom, describing it as an innovative digital census, and indicating that it will provide detailed information to help planners and policymakers. Dr. Pesendorfer pointed out that GASTAT is helping with the Kingdom’s developments by investing in its human capabilities, as well as following a new business model of producing high quality statistics by integrating data from multiple sources. The census project is a good example of implementing this new business model as big data sources like satellite images were used in the preparation of the census, just as well as administrative data before collecting data directly from households. He explained that the Authority had improved the quality of data of major statistical products and information provided to decision makers, exemplifying GDP figures that were available earlier than they used to be. He addressed several Saudi leaders who had worked on preparing for the Census, through a video in which they talked about the efforts made during the census operations and the roles they played. GASTAT prepared the Census project based on the best international practices as implemented in countries of the G20 and in member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), through collaboration with experts from the United Nations (UN) and various government agencies. The Authority is always keen to ensure the quality of data, by setting quality control procedures, as data is validated and processed during the data collection phase by a specialized quality control team, which communicates with a random sample of census participants to ensure the accuracy of the information. After completing the data collection phase, data analyzing will start to ensure its quality and accuracy, after which the preliminary results will be published before the end of 2022, and made available to decision-makers and researchers in the public and private sectors. This will be a record time to complete the analysis and data dissemination, while some countries take more than a full year to complete the analysis and publication process.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced that it has successfully completed the works of address canvassing phase in Saudi Census 2022, which has started on January 26, 2022 and ended on March 10, 2022.  “Address Canvassing” is considered an important preparatory phase and a fundamental step in the census. In this phase, all occupied and unoccupied housing units are enumerated, numbered and linked with the head of household’s identity. Preliminary data on the numbers of households’ members are collected as well through more than 14 thousand field enumerators in order to guarantee that the census is covering all housing units during the actual enumeration phase which will be implemented in early summer this year.   In the same context, GASTAT expresses its thanks and gratitude for all citizens and residents who cooperated with field enumerators during this phase. It also appreciated the efforts of all workers in the census project who have performed their tasks and duties professionally.  GASTAT stated that best international standards and practices are applied throughout the Saudi Census 2022 to assure the achievement of census goals. Modern technologies are applied for the first time in implementing the census works, including the use of satellite images to make sure that census is covering all housing units in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, field enumerators are provided with tablets to guarantee the automation of data collection process, and raise the accuracy and rapidness of work.  Furthermore, GASTAT clarified that the actual enumeration phase in Saudi Census 2022 will start around May 10th, where citizens and residents can participate in the census by choosing the self-enumeration option which allows the completion of census questionnaire electronically, or through a field enumerator visit.  GASTAT confirmed that the participation in Saudi Census is a huge opportunity for all Saudi Arabia’s population either citizens or residents, as this contributes to achieving Saudi Vision 2030, and preparing for a better future for everyone in our beloved country.  It is worth mentioning that the Ministers Cabinet has approved the reference night of the General Census of Population and Housing (1443 H/ 2022) to be on Monday May 9, 2022.

The General Authority for Statistics won the Practical and Institutional Excellence Award in Spending Efficiency within the initiatives pillar to classify periodic monthly reports submitted to the Government Expenditure and Projects Efficiency Authority.  The award was given in recognition of the outstanding efforts made by GASTAT in improving the quality of statistical projects, infrastructure planning, programs, initiatives and operations of the financial budget. In addition to achieving measurement indicators and standards in policies, plans and strategies relevant to the impact of expenditure, completing the applicable statutory procedures and continuously improving them, and adopting international best practices along with related technical applications in the statistical field through the formation of a working team in GASTAT under the name of “Spending Efficiency Team”. The team is in charge to prepare monthly periodic reports and to follow up on the relevant mechanisms and standards.  It also organizes the study of spending on projects, programs and initiatives in the statistical field and related financial aspects over the medium and long term, and their alignment with the financial sustainable goals for the coming years. In the presence of the Vice President Operations, Mr. Mohammad Al-Rasheed and the Spending Efficiency Team, Mr. Ahmed Al-Arini, Director General of Financial Affairs received the award on behalf of GASTAT. He thanked the Government Expenditure and Projects Efficiency Authority for its encouragement in such initiatives and programs that significantly contribute to achieving the future aspirations of Vision 2030. GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and researches, analyzes data and information, in addition to documenting and archiving all works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. Data are written, classified, and analyzed; their indicators are extracted as well.

The General Authority for Statistics announced the activation of the field researcher identity verification service in the Saudi Census 2022 on “Tawakkalna”, within the list of the field researcher’s digital documents. This comes in cooperation with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), in the context of enhancing integration between government entities and strengthening efforts towards enabling digital transformation, which is one of the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.  By launching this service, the General Authority for Statistics aims to raise the level of transparency and reliability among citizens and residents, and to give the greatest degree of reassurance to the heads of households during the field researcher’s visit in the address canvassing phase, in addition to the actual census phase which will be launched on May 9, 2022, corresponding to Shawwal 8, 1443 H, in order to ensure the facilitation of field work for the "Saudi Census 2022" program. Citizens and residents will have the right to view the identification card of the field researcher through the researcher's digital documents on "Tawakkalna". The address canvassing phase will be concluded on March 3. The actual census phase of the general population and housing census for the year 1443 H/2022 will begin on Monday evening, Shawwal 8, 1443 H, corresponding to May 9, 2022, which is the reference night of the census.

His Excellency the Minister of Economy & Planning - and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) - Faisal bin Fadhil Alibrahim expressed his gratitude for the care and patronage by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, towards Saudi Arabia’s upcoming housing and population census. In relation to the received direction to commence the census on May 9, 2022 (Shawwal 8, 1443) His Excellency stated that, “The Saudi census - which GASTAT conducts every ten years - is a vital pillar for the planning and policymaking required to achieve our Vision 2030 goals.” He praised the tremendous support the census operations have received from government agencies, as well as the cooperation from citizens and residents during last year’s pilot census, all of which has contributed significantly in enhancing GASTAT’s readiness to conduct the proper census process this year.   His Excellency encourages all residents to participate in the census as part of their national duty and social responsibility, and to cooperate with field workers in providing their data as accurately as possible. The census results will directly impact policymakers’ abilities to make evidence-based decisions that contribute to better public services and urban planning, as well as enable the private sector and investors to play their part effectively in the Kingdom’s economic development. Alibrahim emphasizes GASTAT’s commitment to the highest standards of privacy and confidentiality when it comes to the collected census data. The Authority’s bylaws strictly prohibit any disclosure of citizens’ and residents’ data and private information (such as ID numbers, names or residency information). His Excellency also highlights this census’s most prominent enhancements, including developing work procedures based on international best practices used in G20 countries and member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Case in point, this will be the first census to make use of satellite imagery to ensure a more comprehensive coverage of the country’s regions and provinces that underwent incredible development since the last census in 2010. Another new procedure aided by modern technology is the fact that citizens and residents have the option to fill out the census on their own via GASTAT’s website. Nevertheless, data collection and enumeration will still be available through field workers to ensure the widest coverage of all segments of the society. Moreover, His Excellency shares that GASTAT has worked hand in hand with the Kingdom’s security authorities to employ their best practices in census operations, such as implementing secure background checks on all field enumerators and staff. Alibrahim asks everyone to cooperate with these workers, stressing that they are Saudi citizens performing an official government initiative and are enabled with all the support and protections they need to accomplish their tasks.  As with all public activities, His Excellency affirms GASTAT’s coordination and planning with the Ministry of Health to ensure that census workers always adhere to the proper precautionary measures to limit the spread of the Covid-19 virus, including fully-vaccinated field staff that are wearing masks and maintaining social distancing during household visits. Address canvassing will commence today, January 26, and is considered an essential step towards an accurate and effective census. Field staff will begin cataloguing all inhabited and uninhabited housing units within the Kingdom and placing smart census stickers. Each sticker will have a unique QR code that will link the housing unit with its respective head of the household.