UAE Joins Global Community To Celebrate World Statistics Day And Highlight Data's Importance

The United Arab Emirates, through the National Committee for Statistics led by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), joined global celebrations for World Statistics Day on October 20. This event, observed every five years since its inception by the United Nations in 2010, highlights the crucial role of statistical data in development and decision-making. It also underscores the importance of statistics in tracking global progress towards development goals.

World Statistics Day 2025 marks its fourth observance under the theme 'Driving change with quality statistics and data for everyone'. This theme emphasises the necessity of reliable data for informed decision-making, effective policy creation, and sustainable advancement. The UAE's celebration reflects a rich history of achievements in its statistical journey and an ambitious vision for future transformation.

The UAE's statistical system is transitioning from traditional surveys to proactive analysis and impact creation. This shift reaffirms the nation's leadership in shaping the future through data. Hanan Ahli, Director of FCSC, stated: "We join the world in celebrating World Statistics Day, which reflects the crucial and active role that statistical institutions play in supporting development pathways, enabling data-driven decision-making, and confidently and innovatively shaping the future."

Hanan Ahli further explained that the UAE is experiencing a qualitative transformation in its statistical system. By leveraging advanced technology, digital solutions, and artificial intelligence, it moves from mere data collection to a comprehensive system supporting strategic planning and policymaking. This approach is grounded in scientific methods for data analysis and utilisation.

Statistics in the UAE transcend numbers; they are seen as a language of the future that guides development paths. By unifying efforts at both federal and local levels to publish standardised national data, the UAE strengthens its position as a global model of accuracy and quality. This effort is supported by wise leadership and effective partnerships with nationwide statistical centres.

The UAE has achieved numerous milestones since its inception with the Union. It has built an advanced statistical system aligned with international standards. Joining the United Nations Statistical Commission for 2025-2028 enhances its international efforts, promoting best practices in data analysis and digital platforms.

Innovative Projects Enhancing Statistical Systems

The "Unified UAE Numbers" project stands out as a significant national initiative aimed at advancing the country's statistical system across various fields such as economic, demographic, social, environmental sectors. Additionally, the "Data Index" serves as a benchmark to enhance government performance by tracking progress in managing national data according to global best practices.

The UAE hosts a regional headquarters for the UN's "Big Data for Sustainable Development" platform in Dubai. This initiative uses big data to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The nation’s wise leadership has laid foundations for a comprehensive national statistical system at all levels.

A New Chapter in Statistical Work

The UAE is entering a new phase that harnesses smart analytics, predictive modeling, and artificial intelligence technologies to transform data into proactive knowledge guiding decision-making. This milestone reflects confidence and renewed vision along a path rich with achievements.

This new chapter signifies an era where smart analytics shape decisions while predictive modeling guides future directions. The integration of artificial intelligence transforms raw data into actionable insights that influence policies effectively.

With inputs from WAM