Abu dhabi: The Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC-Stat) celebrated Gulf Statistics Day, observed annually on 24th December, emphasizing the role of statistics in decision-making and sustainable development. This year's theme, 'Unified Data. A Shared Gulf Vision', underscores the importance of collaboration in data management across the Gulf region.
According to Emirates News Agency, GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi highlighted Gulf Statistics Day as an occasion to acknowledge the contributions of professionals in the statistical sector. He emphasized their role in supporting regional development and informed decision-making. Albudaiwi noted that, following the GCC leaders' directives, the GCC Statistical Centre was established in 2011 to provide unified data, facilitate decision-making, and foster greater integration among member states.
Albudaiwi remarked that statistics have evolved beyond mere numbers, becoming a strategic tool for policymakers to understand current realities and anticipate future trends. He stressed the global recognition of data as a strategic asset, crucial for grasping economic, social, and climate changes, as well as addressing emerging challenges with accurate and reliable information.
He further elaborated on the advancements within the Gulf statistical system, highlighting its progress through institutional integration and the adoption of modern technologies, such as big data and artificial intelligence. These advancements aim to produce data reflecting regional realities and support sustainable development efforts.
Albudaiwi also emphasized the significance of statisticians and data experts in transforming data into actionable knowledge and decisions that contribute to shaping a promising future. He noted that this year's Gulf Statistics Day coincides with the outcomes of the 2025 Gulf Summit in Manama, which stressed the need for enhanced economic and social integration, policy unification, and support for sustainable development and joint Gulf priorities.
The theme of this year's celebration aligns with the leaders' directives at the Manama Summit. Unified official statistics serve as the technical basis for assessing progress in summit decision implementation, including economic integration, monitoring diversification indicators, and tracking Sustainable Development Goals achievements.
The event also featured the recognition of winners from a statistical competition organized by the centre. The competition aimed to promote statistical literacy, foster innovation in data utilization, and motivate Gulf talent to apply statistical indicators in analysis, research, and future foresight.