Riyadh – Shaikat Mubasher: The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) has launched the “Road to Riyadh” program, marking the preparatory phase for Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 6th United Nations World Data Forum, scheduled to take place in Riyadh in November 2026.

The announcement came during the opening of the Second Statistical Forum for Universities and Statistical Associations at the University of Jeddah. The event gathered academics, experts, and representatives from professional statistical associations.

Fahad Aldossari, President of GASTAT, said the year-long program will include local, regional, and international workshops and dialogue sessions, bringing together leading experts and institutions to exchange knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and ensure the sustainability and long-term impact of the forum’s outcomes.

Aldossari added that the initiative serves as a national platform for advancing Saudi Arabia’s data and statistics ecosystem, showcasing the Kingdom’s digital transformation progress and its alignment with Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

He also announced the second edition of the Innovation Lab projects, which will enable researchers, students, and experts to develop innovative statistical solutions that support sustainable development and digital transformation efforts.