Saudi Arabia Achieves Top Ranking In Arab World For Statistical Performance Indicators In 2023

The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) in Saudi Arabia has achieved a significant milestone by ranking first among GCC countries in the World Bank's 2023 Statistical Performance Indicators (SPI). This marks a remarkable improvement, with Saudi Arabia advancing 22 places from its 2022 position. Among G20 nations, the country moved up four spots to secure the 14th position, compared to 18th last year.

In the latest SPI assessment, the World Bank evaluated 187 countries using a new methodology that spans data from 2016 to 2023. The evaluation now includes five main pillars and over 51 indicators, focusing on data use, services, statistical products, sources, and infrastructure. Notably, Saudi Arabia excelled in the fifth pillar among G20 countries with a score of 95% in 2023.

Dr. Fahad Aldossari, President of GASTAT, attributed this success to the support from Saudi Arabia's leadership. He stated that this backing has significantly enhanced the statistical sector's development. "This remarkable progress in the SPI reflects the authority's efforts to implement a statistical transformation strategy focused on enhancing GASTAT's technical infrastructure," he said.

Aldossari highlighted that these advancements have strengthened GASTAT's role globally. The authority is now better positioned to produce accurate and high-quality statistical data and indicators. This progress aids decision-makers in formulating sustainable development plans across various sectors within the country.

GASTAT is committed to improving customer satisfaction by making statistical data more accessible and user-friendly. The authority aims to present information interactively to meet local, regional, and international requirements effectively. This approach ensures that data is not only comprehensive but also easy for users to engage with.

The SPI assessment underscores GASTAT's dedication to enhancing its technical capabilities and field surveys. By strengthening partnerships across public, private, and non-profit sectors, GASTAT continues to improve its statistical offerings and accessibility of data.

This achievement highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing its statistical infrastructure and services. As a result, it contributes significantly to informed policy-making and sustainable development planning within the nation.

With inputs from SPA