Doha, Qatar: Qatar hosted the 'Third GCC Statistical Forum' yesterday under the theme 'Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence: Advancing a Sustainable Statistical Future in the Gulf,' aiming to strengthen collaboration among GCC countries in the field of statistics for joint action, exchange of expertise, and the continuous development of national statistical systems in line with global shifts and the goals of sustainable development.

Organised by the National Planning Council (NPC), via the National Statistics Center and in partnership with the GCC Statistical Center (GCC-Stat), the forum convened senior officials and delegations from the statistical bodies of GCC member states, along with prominent statistics experts, researchers and academics, government representatives, and key national data providers.

During his opening remarks, the Director-General of the National Statistics Center at NPC, Ahmed Hassan Al-Obaidly, stated:“This Forum reflects the GCC countries' strategic vision to build an advanced statistical ecosystem by embracing digital transformation and integrating artificial intelligence into statistical processes.” He emphasised that aligning visions, standards, and platforms among the regional partners is vital for establishing an integrated and secure Gulf data ecosystem, one capable of supporting international reporting and authentically reflecting the region's development progress.

“The future of statistical work in the GCC hinges on a comprehensive regional partnership that consolidates expertise and transforms data into informed decisions that propel the national visions of the GCC countries,” Al-Obaidly added. Additionally, the Director-General revealed the introduction of a data and artificial intelligence competition open to university students from the GCC nations.

The event also witnessed a panel session that addressed technical and security issues tied to data protection and privacy, and examined approaches for enhancing statistical integration among Gulf institutions to promote regional cooperation and match the pace of swift digital transformation.

Participants explored advanced technologies aimed at improving statistical accuracy and boosting institutional capacity in data management through innovative and sustainable methods.

Industry leaders accentuated the importance of national and regional policies that ensure the effective use of data, build the skills of statistical professionals, and encourage innovation through the development of new tools and technologies to further enhance statistical processes.

Director-General of GCC-Stat, Intisar bint Abdullah Al-Wahaibi, said,“This forum reflects our collective commitment to strengthening statistical integration in the Gulf, exchanging expertise, and advancing modern data and statistical systems that underpin informed decision-making and the development of sustainable policies across the GCC.”

The forum reaffirmed the GCC countries' dedication to fostering a forward-looking statistical environment that leverages digital transformation and artificial intelligence. Attendees also agreed on the importance of continued collaboration, knowledge sharing, and capacity-building initiatives to enhance regional data quality and reliability.

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