Saudi Arabia Selected To Host UN World Data Forum In 2026, Showcasing Statistical Progress

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has secured the opportunity to host the United Nations World Data Forum in Riyadh. This decision followed a competitive bidding process overseen by the High-level Group for Partnership, Coordination and Capacity-Building for Statistics for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (HLG-PCCB).

Dr. Fahad Aldossari, President of GASTAT, presented Saudi Arabia’s bid to the HLG-PCCB group. His presentation emphasised GASTAT’s progress in statistical work, the Kingdom’s experience in hosting international events, and its commitment to providing logistical support for a successful forum.

Saudi Arabia proposed the theme "Using the Latest Technologies and Methodologies to Enhance Global Statistical Systems and Enable Sustainable Development" for the forum. This theme underscores the Kingdom's dedication to leveraging advanced technologies in statistical systems.

In a press release issued today, Aldossari stated: "Hosting this event reflects Saudi Arabia's prominent status among nations and underscores the commitment of 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, to supporting the statistical sector. Statistical data plays a crucial role in driving comprehensive and sustainable development across all fields."

Aldossari also mentioned that winning the bid to host the UN World Data Forum in 2026 is a testament to GASTAT's significant advancements in the statistical field. He highlighted that recent expansions in statistical work, driven by GASTAT's initiatives and projects, have enabled them to produce accurate and updated statistical data and indicators.

The decision by HLG-PCCB acknowledges Saudi Arabia’s capability and readiness to host such an important global event. The forum will focus on enhancing global statistical systems through innovative technologies and methodologies.

This achievement not only highlights GASTAT’s progress but also showcases Saudi Arabia’s growing influence on the international stage. The Kingdom's efforts in advancing statistical work are pivotal for sustainable development globally.

By hosting this forum, Saudi Arabia aims to foster international collaboration in statistics, contributing significantly to global sustainable development goals. The event will bring together experts from around the world to share knowledge and best practices.

This milestone reflects Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision for 2030, aiming at comprehensive development across various sectors through robust statistical data. It also demonstrates their commitment to playing a key role in global initiatives.

The successful bid reinforces Saudi Arabia's position as a leader in utilising technology for sustainable development. Hosting such an event will further enhance its reputation as a hub for international conferences.

The forum is expected to attract numerous participants from different countries, providing a platform for exchanging ideas and innovations in statistics. It will be an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to showcase its advancements and contributions to global statistics.

This event aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals of economic diversification and technological advancement under Vision 2030. It signifies their ongoing efforts towards achieving sustainable development through enhanced statistical systems.

With inputs from SPA