GASTAT Reviews Saudi Census Experience

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released the results of Health and Safety at Workplace Statistics publication 2024. According to the publication, the rate of work injuries among workers aged 15 and above reached 245.7 non-fatal injuries and 1.1 fatal injuries per 100 thousand workers, excluding road traffic injuries. Additionally, according to survey respondents, the results indicated that 39% of workers received training in health and safety measures, and 40.4% have access to a dedicated occupational health and safety department at their workplace, while 32.2% of workers received periodic medical examinations provided at their workplace.
Regarding risks at workplace, the results highlighted that 5.4% of workers were required to work on hazardous machines, 2.1% were required to deal with chemicals, and 1% are exposed to heavy metals. Meanwhile, in the healthcare sector, 95% of workers reported that they have coverage to access essential healthcare services. 
The results also showed that over the past 12 months, the most common work-related health problems were "work-related stress" at 2.1%, followed by "eye and vision problems" at 2%, while 79.5% of workers reported that they had not experienced any work-related health problems during the same period.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that the estimates of Health and Safety at Workplace Statistics are based on self-reported data from participants through field visits conducted in the 2024 National Health Survey (NHS), except for the work-related injury rate, which was calculated from the register-based data from the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, and the 2024 population estimates from the General Authority for Statistics. 
 

أصدرت الهيئة العامة للإحصاء اليوم نشرتي إحصاءات التجارة الدولية السلعية لشهر يونيو 2025م، وللربع الثاني من نفس العام. وكشفت نتائج نشرة شهر يونيو عن استمرار نمو الصادرات غير البترولية (شاملة إعادة التصدير) حيث سجلت ارتفاعًا بنسبة 22.1% مقارنة بيونيو 2024، كما ارتفعت الصادرات الوطنية غير البترولية (باستثناء إعادة التصدير) بنسبة 8.4%، ووفقًا لنتائج النشرة فقد زادت قيمة السلع المعاد تصديرها بنسبة 60.2%، كما حقَّقت الصادرات السلعية الكلية ارتفاعًا بنسبة 3.7%، بالرغم من انخفاض الصادرات البترولية بنسبة 2.5%، لتتراجع نسبة الصادرات البترولية من إجمالي الصادرات إلى 70.2% مقابل 74.7% في يونيو 2024.
أما الواردات السلعية فقد ارتفعت بنسبة 1.7%، وأسهم ذلك في تحسّن نسبة الصادرات غير البترولية إلى الواردات لتبلغ 39.2% مقابل 32.7%. في حين ارتفع الفائض في الميزان التجاري بنسبة 10.6% مقارنة بالشهر نفسه من العام الماضي.
وتصدرت منتجات الصناعات الكيماوية قائمة سلع الصادرات غير البترولية بنسبة 24.5% من الإجمالي، تلتها الآلات والأجهزة والمعدات الكهربائية وأجزاؤها بنسبة 23.3%. في حين جاءت الآلات والأجهزة والمعدات الكهربائية وأجزاؤها في المرتبة الأولى بين الواردات بنسبة 30.6%. 
وبيّنت النشرة أن جمهورية الصين الشعبية هي الشريك التجاري الرئيس للمملكة، حيث استحوذت على 15.5% من إجمالي الصادرات و27.9% من إجمالي الواردات في يونيو 2025.
من جانب آخر كشفت نتائج نشرة التجارة الدولية خلال الربع الثاني من عام 2025 عن استمرار نمو الصادرات غير البترولية بنسبة 17.8%، مقارنة بالربع المماثل من عام 2024، كما ارتفعت الصادرات الوطنية غير البترولية بنسبة 5.6%، فيما ارتفعت قيمة السلع المعاد تصديرها بنسبة 46.2%.
في حين سجَّلت الصادرات السلعية الكلية انخفاضًا بنسبة 7.3% مقارنةً بالربع الثاني من عام 2024؛ وذلك نتيجة لانخفاض الصادرات البترولية بنسبة 15.8%، لتتراجع بذلك نسبة الصادرات البترولية من مجموع الصادرات الكلي من 74.7% في الربع الثاني 2024إلى 67.9% في الربع الثاني 2025.
أما الواردات السلعية فقد ارتفعت بنسبة 13.1% خلال الربع الثاني من عام 2025 مقارنةً بالفترة ذاتها من العام الماضي، فيما انخفض الفائض في الميزان التجاري بنسبة 56.2%. وقد ارتفعت نسبة الصادرات غير البترولية إلى الواردات حيث بلغت 37.3% مقابل 35.8% في الربع الثاني من عام 2024.
وتصدرت منتجات الصناعات الكيماوية قائمة الصادرات غير البترولية بنسبة 23.0% من الإجمالي، تلتها الآلات والأجهزة والمعدات الكهربائية وأجزاؤها بنسبة 21.7%. في حين جاءت الآلات والأجهزة والمعدات الكهربائية وأجزاؤها كأكبر السلع المستوردة بنسبة 28.9%.
وبيّنت النشرة أن جمهورية الصين الشعبية كانت الشريك التجاري الرئيس للمملكة في الربع الثاني من عام 2025، حيث استحوذت على 14.2% من إجمالي الصادرات و27.4% من إجمالي الواردات في هذه الفترة.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced today, in its quarterly publication, that the total number of Umrah performers reached 15,222,497 in Q1 of 2025. Saudi Umrah performers accounted for 24%, while males represented 60.5% compared to 39.5% for females.
The number of external Umrah performers reached 6,523,630, recording an increase of 10.7% compared to Q1 of 2024. The majority of them arrived through airports by 82.2%. Meanwhile, the number of internal Umrah performers totaled 8,698,867, of which non-Saudis represented 58%. January 2025 recorded the highest percentage of external Umrah performers with 36.5%. In contrast, March recorded the lowest number in terms of external Umrah performers. On the other hand, March recorded the highest number of internal Umrah performers at 80.9%, whereas January recorded the lowest number. The total number of visitors to Madinah reached 6,452,696 during Q1 of 2025, where external visitors represented 4,412,689, according to the publication.  
It is noteworthy that Umrah and Madinah visitation statistics are published on a quarterly basis starting from 2024, presenting the numbers and percentages of external and internal Umrah performers and visitors to Madinah. The results are based on field surveys and administrative records from the Pilgrim Experience Program and the Ministry of Tourism, in addition to approved statistical models.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has released today a special report on Saudi women through its official website, www.stats.gov.sa. The report is distinguished by the breadth and diversity of its statistical indicators concerning Saudi women aged 15 years and above, encompassing various domains such as education, health, employment, culture, and entertainment, in addition to several other key statistical insights.
The report is based on a comprehensive set of indicators specific to Saudi women within the 15+ age group, derived from the results of multiple surveys conducted by GASTAT. It also incorporates administrative data and population estimates to deliver a wide-ranging statistical overview of women across social, economic, educational, health, cultural, and recreational sectors.
According to the findings of the Saudi Women Report 2024, issued by GASTAT, the total number of Saudi females reached 9,807,663. Women aged 15 to 34 accounted for 35.7% of the total female population, while those aged 20 to 24 represented 17.6%. These figures underscore the significant share of younger age groups among Saudi women compared to other age segments. 
The report also highlighted the efforts undertaken to empower Saudi women in the labor market, which resulted in a significant decline in female unemployment rates. In 2024, the unemployment rate among Saudi women dropped notably to 13%, compared to 19% in 2022. The quarterly unemployment rate for Q4 2024 was recorded at 11.9%, down from 13.9% in the corresponding quarter of 2023. This decline coincided with the broadening of women’s economic participation and the increase in their employment across various sectors.
The report also underscored the growing achievements of Saudi women in the fields of education, innovation, and sports. Among Saudi females aged 25 years and above, 35.3% held a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. In 2024, a total of 22 Saudi women were granted patents, while Saudi women garnered 1,956 local and international awards in the sports sector during the year.
The report further revealed that 44.6% of Saudi women aged 18 years and above engaged in physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week. It also highlighted a broad level of participation in cultural and recreational activities, with visits to parks and gardens recording the highest rate at 62.7%.
The Saudi Women Report is one of the key statistical products issued by GASTAT, showcasing the most significant indicators related to Saudi women. It highlights their advancement and empowerment in the labor market, as well as their progress across social, educational, health, cultural, and recreational domains. These indicators are measured and published on an annual basis.
It is worth noting that GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It carries out all statistical work in addition to providing 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 statistical information and data covering all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from their multiple sources. Data are compiled, classified, analyzed, and their indicators extracted.
 

The Construction Cost Index (CCI) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia recorded an increase of 0.7% in July 2025 compared to the same month last year. This rise is attributed to a 0.7% increase in residential sector costs and a 0.6% increase in non-residential sector costs, according to the CCI publication for July 2025 issued by GASTAT.
On a monthly basis, construction costs in the residential sector increased by 0.4% in July 2025 compared to the previous month of the same year, while costs in the non-residential sector rose by 0.5%.
It is noteworthy that CCI reflects price movements of construction inputs across 51 items of goods and services, with prices collected monthly from various regions of the Kingdom. The year 2023 has been set as the base year for this index.
 

The United Nations (UN) announced the election of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), as co-chair of Working Group on Data Governance (WGDG) of the UN Statistical Commission led by GASTAT’s President, Fahad Aldossari. This step signifies the expanding international recognition of the Kingdom's preeminent role in advancing digital transformation and the development of official data and statistical governance policies. This announcement comes as part of the Kingdom's commitment to supporting global efforts and working with international partners to build a secure and reliable digital future. The aim is to boost confidence in the international community and provide accurate statistics that support development policies and decision-making, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
This group serves as an international platform and a central tool for global coordination on data governance. It helps to establish common terminology, facilitate the exchange of national best practices and expertise at regional and international levels, and create a guiding framework for organizing and using data sources. These efforts enhance transparency, serve sustainable development goals, develop foundational principles and leverage existing initiatives to define global and regional data governance principles and their applicability to official data and statistics.
The Kingdom's membership will contribute to fostering a secure and reliable global statistical data environment, driving innovation, and enabling communities to maximize its value to support economic and social development. It will also help in drafting international data governance standards and policies, in addition to benefiting from the exchange of the latest international practices and developing initiatives that enhance innovation and cooperation among member states.
It is worth noting that WGDG was established this year and held its first meeting with GASTAT’s President, Fahad Aldossari participating as co-chair. The meeting focused on discussing the timeline for the group's work, its roles, and its key tasks.

Preliminary results indicate a 7.9% increase in the Industrial Production Index (IPI) in June 2025 compared to the same month of the previous year (June 2024), according to IPI publication for June 2025 issued by GASTAT. 
The sub-index of mining and quarrying activity increased by 6.0% year on year, while the sub-index of manufacturing activity increased by 11.1%. The sub-index of electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply activity recorded an annual increase of 5.6%, and the sub-index of water supply, sewerage and waste management and remediation activities increased by 6.9%, compared to June 2024. By main economic activities, the results indicate that the index of oil activities in June 2025 increased by 7.7%, and the index of non-oil activities increased by 8.6%,  the publication noted.

It is worth noting that GASTAT publishes the Industrial Production Index (IPI) monthly. The IPI is an economic indicator that reflects the relative changes in the volume of industrial output, based on data from the Industrial Production Survey, which is conducted on a sample of industrial establishments engaged in the targeted activities: mining and quarrying, manufacturing, electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply, and water supply, sewerage and waste management and remediation activities.

التقى رئيس الهيئة العامة للإحصاء فهد بن عبد الله الدوسري في مقر جمعية "لأجلهم لخدمة الأشخاص ذوي الإعاقة" صاحب السمو الأمير فيصل بن عبد الرحمن بن ناصر بن فرحان آل سعود الرئيس التنفيذي للجمعية؛ وذلك في إطار العمل على ما يحقق دعم أعمال الجمعية وتعزيز سبل التعاون في مختلف المجالات التي تقع ضمن اختصاص الهيئة العامة للإحصاء، إضافة إلى دعم وتطوير المبادرات التي أطلقتها الجمعية وتسهم في دعم وتمكين ذوي الإعاقة وتنسجم مع مستهدفات رؤية السعودية 2030.
من جهته أكد رئيس الهيئة العامة للإحصاء فهد بن عبد الله الدوسري أن هذا اللقاء يأتي في إطار جهود الهيئة لتعزيز التكامل مع القطاع غير الربحي، والاستفادة من البيانات الإحصائية الرسمية التي تصدرها الهيئة لدعم التخطيط وصناعة القرار.
في ذات السياق قال صاحب السمو الأمير فيصل بن عبدالرحمن الرئيس التنفيذي لجمعية من أجلهم لخدمة الأشخاص ذوي الإعاقة أن هذا النوع من اللقاءات تسهم في رفع كفاءة البرامج المقدمة، ويساعد في بناء قاعدة معرفية تسهم في تعزيز الأثر المجتمعي لأنشطة الجمعية والجمعيات الأخرى ذات الدور المجتمعي غير الربحي، وتساهم في دعم الفئات المستهدفة سواءٌ الأشخاص ذوي الإعاقة وأسرهم أو غيرهم من الفئات التي تخدمهم الجمعيات والمؤسسات المتخصصة غير الربحية..
تجدر الإشارة إلى أن جمعية "لأجلهم" تُعد من أبرز الجهات غير الربحية المعنيَّة بخدمة وتمكين الأشخاص ذوي الإعاقة في المملكة، وتسعى من خلال برامجها ومبادراتها إلى تحقيق بيئة داعمة تسهم في تحسين جودة حياة هذه الفئة، وتحقيق تكافؤ الفرص المقدمة لها.

Coinciding with its participation in the Fifth International Conference on Disability and Rehabilitation, held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Fourth International Exhibition for Disability Equipment “Dhiaa 2018,” which was organized alongside the conference at the Disabled Children’s Association in Riyadh, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) clarified that, based on the results of the 2017 Survey of Individuals with Disabilities among Saudi nationals, the prevalence rate of severe disability was 2.9 percent.
GASTAT indicated that visual difficulties were the most common among Saudis with a single disability, accounting for 46.02 percent, with severity levels distributed as follows: mild (67.8 percent), severe (28.5 percent), and extreme (3.7 percent).
In comparison, the most common difficulty among Saudis with multiple disabilities was mobility difficulty, accounting for 29.13 percent of individuals with multiple disabilities, with severity levels distributed as follows: mild (54.07 percent), severe (29.22 percent), and extreme (16.71 percent).
According to the survey results, the Riyadh region recorded the highest concentration of Saudis with disabilities among all regions, representing 25.13 percent of the total, while Najran region recorded the lowest, at 0.87 percent.
GASTAT also participated in the Fourth International Exhibition for Disability Equipment with a booth that showed the key findings from the disability survey. GASTAT delivered an introductory lecture on the survey, presented by Mr. Abdullah bin Zaid Aldaafs from the Department of Population and Vital Statistics, and also took part in the workshop on the National Disability Registry.

The overall unemployment rate among the population is 5.8%, while the rate for Saudi citizens is 12.8%.
General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) spokesman: Unemployment rates are calculated according to international standards and are published through GASTAT’s official website and social media platforms.
In response to recent discussions regarding the unemployment rate among Saudi citizens, the accuracy of the published figure, and various interpretations attempting to estimate the unemployment rate, the official spokesman of GASTAT, Mr. Taiseer Al-Mufarrej, clarified that GASTAT has published the Labor Market Report for the third quarter of 2017 through its official website. The report provides comprehensive indicators on the labor market in the Kingdom based on two main sources. The first is actual estimates derived from the Labor Force Survey conducted quarterly by GASTAT. The second is administrative data obtained from relevant agencies including The Ministry of Labor and Social Development, the Ministry of Civil Service, the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI), the Human Resources Development Fund, and the National Information Center (NIC).
The report, along with the main press release issued by GASTAT at the time, included both the overall unemployment rate for the total population and the unemployment rate specific to Saudi citizens. The results of the report for the third quarter of 2017 showed that the overall unemployment rate among the population was 5.8%, which represents a decrease compared to 6.0% in the second quarter. The unemployment rate for Saudi citizens remained unchanged at 12.8% in both the second and third quarters.
Regarding the incorrect interpretations of the unemployment rate that were observed, Al-Mufarrej stated that these interpretations revolve around two main issues. The first involves misreadings and assumptions regarding the actual unemployment rate and how it is calculated. In this regard, he emphasized that GASTAT adopts internationally recognized methodologies that are followed by global statistical organizations, in the same manner as other official statistical agencies around the world, in estimating unemployment rates. GASTAT publishes detailed breakdowns by gender, nationality, and administrative region. Therefore, any alternative method of estimating unemployment that does not follow these established standards is incorrect and should not be considered.
The second issue observed is the failure to distinguish between the overall unemployment rate for the total population and the unemployment rate specific to Saudi citizens. GASTAT has consistently published both figures since the initial launch of the Labor Force Survey, which later evolved into the Labor Market Report. Each rate reflects a distinct measurement. The overall rate represents the total population, including non-citizens, while the Saudi-specific rate excludes non-Saudis. It is also important to note that international organizations, when comparing unemployment levels between countries, rely on the overall unemployment rate that includes the total population.
Al-Mufarrej further confirmed that GASTAT provides various communication channels to respond to inquiries from interested parties and media professionals before publishing any interpretation, information, or clarification related to statistical indicators or data. He stressed that the lack of accuracy in some of the information circulated by the public or media may result from relying solely on news headlines without referring to the source or the full statistical report. This report is published in multiple formats on GASTAT’s official website and contains all the necessary details, data, survey methodologies, and international standards used in its preparation.

A detailed report on Hajj statistics featuring 40 key statistical outputs to be released following the official announcement
The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT): Final Count of Hajj Pilgrims for 1438 AH to Be Announced After Sunset on the Day of Arafah
 GASTAT has announced that the counting and enumeration of pilgrims for the 1438 AH Hajj season, through the official entry points to the city of Makkah, will conclude at 6:30 PM, coinciding with sunset on Thursday, the ninth of Dhul-Hijjah (Day of Arafah). The final announcement of the total number of pilgrims and the release of the detailed Hajj statistics report will follow a few hours later, the same evening.
Mr. Abdullah Al-Batel, Deputy President of the Authority for Statistical Operations, confirmed that the Hajj Statistics Report, which will be issued shortly after the official announcement, will include forty principal statistical outputs intended to support strategic planning for serving the pilgrims and visitors to the Two Holy Mosques. He explained that the report provides comprehensive and accurate data on the number of pilgrims, classified by their methods and dates of arrival, and includes a variety of analytical tables and charts presenting figures such as the number of domestic pilgrims by gender and arrival method, the arrival patterns of Saudi pilgrims, the breakdown of non-Saudi domestic pilgrims by gender and nationality, their distribution by arrival method and nationality, and comparative figures across different nationalities. The report also details the number of vehicles used to transport domestic pilgrims to Makkah, organized by vehicle type and date of arrival. Furthermore, it presents data on international pilgrims by gender and arrival method, by gender and date of arrival, as well as comparative statistics on their methods of arrival. This information will be made available in multiple formats, including the Hajj Statistical Map, which allows users to easily access all data related to Hajj statistics.
Mr. Al-Batel further emphasized that the Hajj Statistics Program, implemented by GASTAT, aims to provide detailed and reliable data on the number of pilgrims from both inside and outside the Kingdom. These statistics serve as a foundational input for all relevant government entities to support future planning and ensure the delivery of essential services to pilgrims, including those related to social, health, security, food, and transportation sectors. The program relies on time-series data to estimate the manpower required to serve pilgrims and ensure their safety and comfort throughout the Hajj season. It also provides essential insights into infrastructure and facility needs in Makkah and the Holy Sites, which are considered when preparing development plans. In addition, the program contributes to the design of annual traffic management plans, including the phases of escalation and dispersal, and supports researchers, academics, and stakeholders interested in this field. It also assists in evaluating the efforts of various entities responsible for serving pilgrims and monitoring changes in arrival patterns.
In response to inquiries regarding the scope of enumeration and whether it includes drivers of vehicles and buses, Mr. Al-Batel clarified that the official unit of counting in Hajj statistics is the pilgrim in the state of Ihram. Accordingly, the enumeration of domestic pilgrims is limited to those in Ihram who are physically counted at the Hajj Statistics Centers located at the entrances to the city of Makkah. If a driver is in a state of Ihram, he is counted as a pilgrim. The enumeration includes all Saudi and non-Saudi individuals, male and female, arriving from within the Kingdom to perform Hajj. As for international pilgrims, they are counted by the General Directorate of Passports at the Kingdom’s official ports of entry, and their figures are subsequently provided to GASTAT to be added to the total number of pilgrims.

Dr. Fahad bin Suleiman Altekhaifi, Director General of the Central Department of Statistics and Information, affirmed that the contents of the speech delivered by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at the outset of announcing the State’s General Budget for the fiscal year 1437/1438 AH outline a comprehensive framework for the future of the Kingdom and the effective and impactful management of its development. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud’s directives were clearly articulated and imbued with an ambitious vision for a more stable and prosperous tomorrow.
The economic and financial reform program introduced in the speech represents a pivotal qualitative step in the journey of construction and progress. Through this program, all state institutions will be able to respond positively to the requirements of the current phase. This year’s budget contains important details of a comprehensive and integrated action plan, with the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud outlining its pillars as foundational elements for building a strong and resilient economy based on ten solid principles: diversification of income sources, growth of savings, job creation, effective public-private sector partnership, continuity in implementing development and service projects, comprehensive advancement of services, improved efficiency of public spending, enhanced resource utilization, reduction of waste, and increased competitiveness of the business sector.
These ten principles form the core agenda of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, as referenced by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in his speech. The Council has led the transformation process with distinction and will continue to lead the development efforts in the coming period, which will witness major shifts in the management of government projects.
This places an increased responsibility on the statistical sector to ensure the quality of statistical products, especially as we now stand at the threshold of a major transformation with the conversion of the Department into the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT). This shift aims to align statistical, data, and informational outputs with the evolving demands of the next phase of development, as these outputs constitute the primary inputs for effective developmental planning and continuous improvement.
The Director General emphasized that the statistical sector has received significant attention from the wise leadership, in recognition of its vital contribution to the development of various social, administrative, educational, economic, health, environmental, agricultural, and industrial domains. He added: “My colleagues and I in the statistical sector will spare no effort in providing everything that contributes to the development and construction of this nation’s future to perpetuate the blessings of security and prosperity upon us.

Dr. Fahad Altekhaifi, Director of the Central Department of Statistics and Information, stated that the transformation into a “General Authority” will focus on two principal areas: serving clients and beneficiaries—which encompass all entities that utilize statistical products—and enhancing the quality of these products to more effectively support data-driven decision-making that benefits both citizens and residents.
Altekhaifi explained that the statistical sector, in its new institutional form represented by the Authority and associated statistical departments, will strive to establish effective partnerships across all sectors. The objective is to consolidate the source of official statistics and accelerate their dissemination through formats and services that enable users to leverage the information and maximize its impact.
Speaking during a workshop held yesterday at the Department’s headquarters in Riyadh, which brought together more than thirty officials and specialists from various public and private sector institutions, Altekhaifi emphasized that clients are at the core of the transformation initiative launched by the Department, aimed at establishing a high-caliber statistical authority aligned with international standards relevant to development.
Government and private sector stakeholders involved in statistical work affirmed that the ongoing transformation of Saudi Arabia’s statistical sector—spearheaded by the Central Department of Statistics and Information—is advancing rapidly and cohesively, keeping pace with the evolving demands of both national and global economies.
The workshop, organized by the Central Department of Statistics and Information, aimed to engage all beneficiaries and partners of statistical products in the transition toward the establishment of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), and to develop a unified vision regarding the Authority’s current and future strategic priorities.
The Department’s meeting halls witnessed a dynamic exchange of ideas and expertise, with the participation of representatives from the Ministries of Economy and Planning, Commerce, Labor, Housing, Civil Service, Social Affairs, Education, Health, Culture and Information, Water and Electricity, and Communications and Information Technology. Also in attendance were the General Investment Authority, the Saudi Export Development Authority, the General Commission for Audiovisual Media, the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority, the e-Government Program (Yesser), King Saud University, Saudi Aramco, and a number of independent Saudi consultants.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) issued Establishments ICT Access and Usage Statistics Report in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for 2023. The percentage of establishments with internet access in the Kingdom reached 97.7%. Furthermore, 91.3% of establishments used e-government services, such as accessing and downloading information or conducting electronic transactions with government entities, and 57.7% of establishments reported using social media, according to the report.

It is worth noting that the Establishments ICT Access and Usage Survey provides reliable data that aligns with international standards, supporting Saudi Vision for digital transformation and enhancing its global competitiveness. The survey relies on unified international standards to ensure the accuracy and quality of data, which enhances the compatibility of the results with digital transformation requirements at both the national and international levels.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) released flash estimates for the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for Q2 of 2025.
The real GDP grew by 3.9% compared to the same period in 2024. Non-oil activities recorded a growth of 4.7%, oil activities grew by 3.8%, while government activities increased by 0.6%, according to the publication’s results.
The publication also showed that seasonally adjusted real GDP increased by 2.1% compared to Q1 of 2025. Oil activities recorded a growth of 5.6%, non-oil activities increased by 1.6%, while government activities decreased by 0.8%.
It is worth noting that the flash (quarterly) GDP estimates are preliminary assessments of real growth rates, released shortly after the end of the reference quarter when complete data is not yet available. GASTAT will publish the final results once all data has been collected and verified.
 

His Excellency the Minister of Economy and Planning and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority for Statistics, Faisal F. Alibrahim, expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the occasion of the Council of Ministers’ approval of the Statistics Law. He noted that this approval reaffirms the support and empowerment that the statistical sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia receives. He emphasized that the Statistics Law marks a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s statistical transformation journey and will contribute to the advancement of statistical work and amplify its impact in supporting development plans.
The Statistics Law serves as a modern framework for governing and enhancing the quality of statistics, in line with international statistical principles and standards. It will also support the Kingdom’s direction toward greater transparency and enable public and private entities to use statistics in decision-making, contributing to the achievement of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
For his part, the President of the General Authority for Statistics, Fahad Aldossari, stated that the Council of Ministers’ approval of the Statistics Law reflects the strong support that the statistical sector receives from the leadership. He added that this milestone is the result of collaborative efforts between GASTAT and relevant stakeholders, and a comprehensive study of both local and international statistical experiences. The law will enhance the efficiency and comprehensiveness of statistical work and support the development of the statistical system in accordance with the best international practices.
It is worth noting that the Statistics Law will replace the General Statistics Law issued by Royal Decree No. (23) dated 07/12/1379 H, as well as the General Population Census Law issued by Royal Decree No. (M/13) dated 23/04/1391 H.

The General Authority for Statistics has released today the monthly and quarterly International Merchandise Trade Statistics Publication for March and the Q1 of 2025. The publication highlights continued growth in non-oil exports. 
According to the report, non-oil exports (including re-exports) saw a significant rise of 13.4% in the Q1 of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. In March 2025 alone, they grew by 10.7% compared to March 2024. This growth highlights the increasing contribution of non-oil sectors to the kingdom's foreign trade.
However, total merchandise exports experienced a decline of 3.2% in Q1 2025 and 9.8% in March. On the other hand, merchandise imports increased by 7.3% in Q1 and 0.1% in March compared to the previous year. As a result, the trade surplus decreased by 28% in Q1 and 34.2% in March.
The publication also shows an improved ratio of non-oil exports to imports, reaching 36.2% in Q1 2025 (up from 34.3% in Q1 2024) and 36.5% in March (up from 33% in March 2024). This coincides with a decrease in the share of oil exports within total exports, which fell to 71.8% in Q1 2025 (from 75.9%) and to 71.2% in March (from 76.5%). Chemical products led the non-oil exports, accounting for 23.8% in Q1 and 25.7% in March 2025. Meanwhile, "machinery, electrical appliances, and their parts" were the largest imported goods, making up 25.8% in Q1 and 26.1% in March.
The publication indicated that the People’s Republic of China remained Saudi Arabia’s top trading partner. China accounted for 15.7% of the Kingdom’s total exports and 26.6% of total imports in Q1 2025. In March, China’s share stood at 15.5% of exports and 25.3% of imports. It is worth noting that the International Merchandise Trade Statistics are based on administrative records from the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority for non-oil data, and from the Ministry of Energy for oil data. Goods are classified according to the Harmonized System for describing and coding basic goods 2022.

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Statistics Estonia in the Republic of Estonia during the Saudi Statistics Forum, which was held in Riyadh from April 27 to 28, 2025, as part of efforts to strengthen international cooperation in the field of statistical work.
The MoU aims to enhance cooperation between the two parties, strengthen the coordination and integration of efforts in statistical fields, develop institutional capacities, and establish a general framework for joint activities and tasks that serve the strategic objectives of both parties.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Fahad bin Abdullah Aldossari, President of GASTAT, and Mr. Urmet Lee, Director of Statistics Estonia.
The MoU includes cooperation in the exchange of expertise, technical and knowledge support, as well as the exchange of programs related to raising statistical awareness and public communication strategies. It also covers the organization of conferences, seminars, and workshops, as well as the exchange of visits between experts and specialists in fields related to statistical work.
It is noteworthy that the Saudi Statistics Forum is the first of its kind. It aims to discuss important topics in the statistical field and highlight the positive impact of the statistics sector in supporting the progress of development and sustainable growth in the Kingdom, as well as reinforce the importance of data and statistics in raising awareness among members of society.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) announced the release of the Construction Cost Index Publication in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as part of its ongoing efforts to develop statistical products for vital sectors and to provide a reliable and effective reference with accurate estimates. This is based on a comprehensive analysis of raw material prices, labor wages, equipment and machinery rental costs, and energy costs. The publication also aims to unify estimates across various sectors to support decision-making by contractors, real estate developers, and relevant entities, and to contribute to shaping a clear roadmap for residential and non-residential construction projects within the building and construction sector.
In the same context, the results of the Construction Cost Index survey on a monthly basis showed price stability in June 2025 compared to May 2025. The costs of basic materials recorded a decline of 0.1%, driven by a 0.4% decrease in metal product prices.
According to the publication (June 2025), the Construction Cost Index increased by 1.1% compared to June 2024, influenced by a 1.2% rise in residential construction costs and a 1.0% increase in non-residential construction costs. This increase was mainly due to a 2.5% rise in equipment and machinery rental prices, and a 9.9% increase in energy costs, driven by a 27.3% surge in diesel fuel prices. Labor wages also rose by 2.4%, while the prices of basic materials declined by 0.7%. On a monthly basis, the index remained stable compared to May 2025.
It is worth noting that the Construction Cost Index Publication will be issued on a monthly basis. The index can be accessed through the official website of the General Authority for Statistics, which provides analytical reports and updated charts that enable decision-makers to track market changes and review publications, figures, and statistical indicators related to this sector.

Non-oil exports (including re-exports) increased by 6.0%, reaching SAR 31.1 billion in May 2025, compared to the same month last year. Meanwhile, the total value of merchandise exports stood at SAR 90.4 billion. Imports in May 2025 also rose, reaching SAR 80.9 billion, a 7.8% increase from May of the previous year, according to "International Merchandise Trade Statistics Publication for May 2025" issued by GASTAT.
The publication highlighted that " machinery, electrical equipment, and parts " were among the most significant non-oil exports, totaling SAR 7.4 billion and accounting for 23.7% of total non-oil exports. This category was also the largest imported goods, valued at SAR 24.0 billion, making up 29.7% of total imports. China is the Kingdom's primary partner in merchandise trade. Exports to China reached SAR 12.7 billion, representing 14.0% of total exports in May 2025, while imports from China amounted to SAR 23.4 billion, accounting for 28.9% of total imports in May 2025.
It's worth noting that international trade statistics are built on administrative records from Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (non-oil), and the Ministry of Energy (oil). Saudi Arabia's merchandise exports and imports are classified according to the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding Systems 2022.