Election of the Kingdom as co-chair of UN Working Group on Data Governance (WGDG)

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.

كشفت الهيئة العامة للإحصاء اليوم في نشرتها عن إحصاءات العمرة للربع الأول من عام 2025 والتي أشارت نتائجها إلى أن إجمالي عدد المعتمرين بلغ 15,222,497 معتمرًا، شكّل السعوديون منهم ما نسبته 24%، فيما بلغت نسبة الذكور 60.5% مقابل 39.5% للإناث.
وأظهرت نتائج النشرة أن عدد المعتمرين القادمين من الخارج بلغ 6,523,630 معتمرًا بزيادة 10.7% مقارنةً بالربع الأول من عام 2024، حيث قدم معظمهم عبر المنافذ الجوية بنسبة 82.2% في حين بلغ عدد معتمري الداخل 8,698,867 معتمرًا، مثّل غير السعوديين منهم ما نسبته 58%.
وفي ذات السياق، تصدّر شهر يناير من عام 2025 أعداد معتمري الخارج بنسبة 36.5% من الإجمالي، بينما كان شهر مارس الأقل. في حين شكّل شهر مارس النسبة الأعلى لمعتمري الداخل بنسبة 80.9%، فيما كان شهر يناير الأقل.
وأظهرت نتائج النشرة أن إجمالي عدد زوار المدينة المنورة بلغ 6,452,696 زائرًا خلال الربع الأول من عام 2025، منهم 4,412,689 زائرًا من الخارج. 
يذكر أن إحصاءات العمرة وزيارة المدينة المنورة تصدر بدورية ربع سنوية بدءًا من عام 2024م، وتعرض أعداد ونسب المعتمرين والزوار من الداخل والخارج بناءً على المسوح الميدانية والبيانات السجلية من برنامج خدمة ضيوف الرحمن و وزارة السياحة، بالإضافة إلى النماذج الإحصائية المعتمدة. 
 

أصدرت الهيئة العامة للإحصاء اليوم تقريرًا خاصًا عن المرأة السعودية عبر موقعها الرسمي www.stats.gov.sa، وتكمن أهميته في عدد وتنوُّع المؤشرات الإحصائية المتعلقة بالمرأة السعودية من عمر 15 سنة فأكثر في مختلف المجالات كالتعليم والصحة والعمل والثقافة والترفيه، وعدد من الإحصاءات الأخرى واعتمد التقرير على حزمة من المؤشرات الإحصائية الخاصة بالمرأة السعودية للفئة العمرية (15 سنة فأكثر) استنادًا إلى نتائج مجموعة من المسوح التي تنفذها الهيئة العامة للإحصاء، بالإضافة إلى البيانات السجلية والتقديرات السكانية إلى هذه المصادر بهدف الوصول إلى إحصاءات متنوعة عن المرأة في مختلف المجالات الاجتماعية الاقتصادية والتعليمية، والصحية، والثقافية، والترفيهية.
وأظهرت نتائج (تقرير المرأة السعودية 2024م) الصادر من الهيئة العامة للإحصاء أن إجمالي عدد الإناث السعوديات بلغ 9,807,663 نسمة، حيث مثلت الفئة العمرية (15 – 34) نسبة 35.7% من إجمالي الإناث السعوديات، فيما بلغت الفئة العمرية( 20 – 24  ) نسبة 17.6% ، وهو ما يعكس ارتفاع نسبة الفئات العمرية الشابة من النساء مقارنة بالفئات العمرية الأخرى.
من ناحية أخرى أوضحت نتائج التقرير الجهود التي بُذلت لتمكين المرأة السعودية في سوق العمل، حيث انخفضت معدلات بطالة المرأة، وكان من نتائج ذلك أن حقق معدل البطالة بين النساء السعوديات انخفاضًا ملحوظًا في عام 2024م ليصل إلى 13% مقارنة بعام 2022م حيث كان 19%، فيما بلغ معدل البطالة الربعي للربع الرابع من عام 2024م 11.9% مقارنة بالربع نفسه من عام 2023م والذي سجل 13.9%، وذلك تزامنًا مع التوسع في المشاركة الاقتصادية للنساء وزيادة معدلات توظيفهن في مختلف المجالات. كما ارتفع معدل المشتغلات من النساء السعوديات إلى السكان ليصل إلى 31.8%، فيما بلغ معدل مشاركة النساء في سوق العمل 36%.
وأظهرت نتائج التقرير تزايد إنجازات المرأة السعودية في مجالات التعليم والابتكار والرياضة، حيث بلغت نسبة الحاصلات على درجة البكالوريوس أو ما يعادلها 35.3% من إجمالي السعوديات في الفئة العمرية (25 سنة فأكثر)، كما حصلت 22 سعودية على براءات اختراع في عام 2024م، بالإضافة إلى حصول السعوديات على 1,956 جائزة محلية ودولية في المجال الرياضي خلال العام.
على صعيد آخر أوضحت نتائج التقرير أن نسبة السعوديات (18 سنة فأكثر) الممارسات للنشاط البدني لمدة 150 دقيقة أو أكثر أسبوعيًا بلغت 44.6%، كما أظهر التقرير أن الأنشطة الثقافية والترفيهية شهدت مشاركة واسعة، حيث كانت زيارة الحدائق والمتنزهات الأعلى بنسبة 62.7%.
يشار إلى أن تقرير المرأة السعودية هو أحد منتجات الهيئة العامة للإحصاء التي تعكس أهم المؤشرات الخاصة بالمرأة السعودية، وتبرز ارتقائها وتمكينها في سوق العمل وتقدمها في المجالات الاجتماعية والتعليمية والصحية والثقافية والترفيهية، حيث يتم قياس هذه المؤشرات ونشرها بشكل سنوي. الجدير بالذكر أن الهيئة العامة للإحصاء هي المرجع الإحصائي الرسمي والوحيد للبيانات والمعلومات الإحصائية في المملكة، وتقوم بتنفيذ الأعمال الإحصائية كافة، والإشراف الفني على القطاع الإحصائي، وتصميم وتنفيذ المسوح الميدانية، وإجراء الدراسات والبحوث الإحصائية، وتحليل البيانات والمعلومات، وجميع أعمال توثيق وحفظ المعلومات والبيانات الإحصائية التي تُغطي جميع جوانب الحياة في المملكة مِنْ مصادرها المتعددة، وتدوينها، وتبويبها، وتحليلها، واستخراج مؤشراتها الإحصائية.
 

سجل الرقم القياسي لتكاليف البناء في المملكة العربية السعودية ارتفاعًا نسبة0.7% خلال يوليو 2025 مقارنةً بنظيره من العام الماضي، يعزى ذلك الى ارتفاع تكاليف القطاع السكني بنسبة 0.7% والقطاع غير السكني 0.6%. وذلك وفقاً لنشرة الرقم القياسي لتكاليف البناء لشهر يوليو2025 الصادرة من الهيئة العامة للإحصاء.
وعلى أساس شهري، سجلت تكاليف البناء في القطاع السكني ارتفاع نسبته 0.4% خلال يوليو 2025 مقارنةً بالشهر السابق من العام نفسه، في حين سجل تكاليف القطاع غير السكني ارتفاعا نسبته 0.5%. 
تجدر الإشارة إلى أن الرقم القياسي لتكاليف البناء (CCI)   يعكس تحركات الأسعار لمدخلات البناء عبر 51 بندًا من السلع والخدمات، يتم جمع أسعارها بشكل شهري من مختلف مناطق المملكة  وقد حُددت سنة 2023 كسنة أساس لقياس هذا المؤشر.
 

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.
 

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Project Management Institute (PMI) in Saudi Arabia. Representing GASTAT, the MoC was signed by Mr. Rami bin Ahmed Ghurab, General Supervisor of Data and Partnerships and, Dr. Ibtisam Alqahtani, Vice President, represented PMI.

The MoC aims to enhance collaboration between the two entities, coordinate efforts in their respective fields, establish a general framework for joint activities and tasks, develop their institutional capabilities, and improve the efficiency and qualification of project management professionals through courses and training programs. Additionally, it seeks to foster integration between both parties to achieve their mutual objectives.

This initiative is part of GASTAT's efforts to strengthen its cooperation with various public and private sector institutions and entities. It also seeks to raise statistical awareness through effective local, regional, and international partnerships, keeping pace with current demands and realizing the future aspirations of the statistical sector.
 

The annual inflation rate in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia recorded relative stability at 2.3% in June 2025 compared to the same month of the previous year. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) also remained stable at 0.2% in June 2025 compared to May 2025 on a monthly basis.
In the same context, the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) recorded relative stability at 2.1% year-on-year, while it declined by 0.1% compared to May2025.
It is worth noting that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) reflects changes in consumer prices for a fixed basket of goods and services consisting of 490 items. The selection was based on the 2018 Household Expenditure and Income Survey. Price data was gathered through field visits to retail outlets, and CPI statistics were published monthly in the Kingdom