News

In a significant regional gathering focused on the future of data and statistics, Fahad Aldossari, President of the General Authority for Statistics, took part in a panel discussion titled “Insights of GCC Statistical Leaders: Toward an Integrated Data System for a Sustainable Future.” The session was held during the Third Gulf Statistical Forum hosted by the State of Qatar, which brought together a wide range of statistical leaders, experts, and decision-makers from GCC countries to strengthen collaborative statistical efforts and explore the evolving landscape of data in the region.
Aldossari highlighted the Kingdom’s comprehensive statistical transformation journey, underscoring that reliable statistical data serves as a central pillar in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. He explained that GASTAT has, in recent years, implemented an extensive transformation plan focused on rebuilding the national statistical system and enhancing its digital infrastructure to improve data quality and accelerate production. He also noted GASTAT’s commitment to diversifying data sources, expanding data utilization, and adopting advanced international frameworks and standards to strengthen data consistency and elevate international comparability.
He concluded by emphasizing Saudi Arabia’s regional leadership in advancing statistical development and called for continued GCC cooperation to keep pace with the rapid advancements in data and its technologies.
The Gulf Statistical Forum is recognized as one of the region’s leading platforms dedicated to the statistics sector. It brings together statistical leaders, experts, and policymakers to discuss key developments, challenges, and opportunities in the data field, while supporting efforts to enhance national statistical systems and build capacities that promote sustainable economic and social development across the Gulf.
 

The Construction Cost Index (CCI) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia increased by 1.0% in October 2025 compared with the same month last year. This upturn is mainly driven by a 1.0% rise in residential construction costs and a 0.9% rise in non-residential construction costs, according to the October 2025 Construction Cost Index Publication issued by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT).
Month-over-month, residential construction costs remained unchanged in October 2025 relative to September 2025. This stability reflects the steady monthly prices observed in both the residential and non-residential sectors, as neither recorded any notable rate of change.
It is noteworthy that the Construction Cost Index (CCI) tracks price movements of construction inputs across 51 goods and services, with prices collected monthly from regions across the Kingdom. The index uses 2023 as its base year and was introduced by GASTAT in mid-2024 as part of ongoing efforts to enhance statistical products for key sectors. The CCI provides a reliable and effective reference supported by precise estimates based on comprehensive analysis of key material costs, labor costs, equipment and machinery rental, and energy costs for both residential and non-residential sectors. The index aims to support informed decision-making for contractors, real estate developers, and relevant stakeholders and to contribute to shaping a clear roadmap for residential and non-residential construction projects within the construction sector.
 

 General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Umrah statistics results for Q2 of 2025, showing that the total number of Umrah performers, both internal and external, reached 5,443,393. The results showed that 3,352,506 were males (61.6%) and 2,090,887 were females (38.4%). The results further showed that non-Saudis who performed Umrah during this period totaled 1,993,274 representing (48.4%). The number of external Umrah performers reached 1,324,418, including 653,513 males (49.3%) and 670,905 females (50.7%).  In terms of entry ports, the statistics showed that 71.6% of external Umrah performers entered through airports, while 28.2% arrived through land ports, and 0.2% arrived through seaports.
It is noteworthy that Umrah statistics are issued periodically and are among the key statistical products that provide accurate data on the numbers of internal and external Umrah performers and visitors. These statistics serve as a reliable reference to support policies and plans related to Umrah and visitor services in Saudi Arabia.
 

General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the Early Childhood Development and Child Well-Being Statistics results for 2025. The results show that 82.4% of children aged 24–59 months are on track in the health, learning, and psychosocial well-being domains according to the Early Childhood Development Index (ECDI2030). Also, 83.2% of females are on track compared to 81.6% of males. Data further shows that 90.0% of children aged 36–59 months live in a positive and stimulating home environment for learning, with 90.1% among females and 89.8% among males.
Regarding children’s book ownership, 31.0% of children under five own one to two books, while 9.2% own three or more books. Additionally, 17.3% of children aged 36–59 months are enrolled in an early childhood education program, with enrollment at 18.2% for females and 16.5% for males. The participation rate in organized learning for five-year-olds reached 73.0%, with 74.5% for females and 71.5% for males. Survey results also show that 35.1% of children aged 5–7 years use digital devices for one to two hours daily, while 28.8% use them for less than one hour per day.
Early Childhood Development and Child Well-Being Statistics are based on data from the 2025 Maternal and Child Health Survey and administrative records from the Ministry of Education for the 2024–2025 school year. These indicators are among the most important measures reflecting the state of early childhood development in the Kingdom and support national policies aimed at improving the quality of life for young children.