Riyadh: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI), participated in the 13th meeting of the Standing Committee for Statistical Work in the GCC, held in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from 10 to 11 December 2025. The gathering included heads and directors of national statistical offices from GCC member states, along with representatives from relevant entities.

According to Oman News Agency, the Committee addressed several priority topics for GCC statistical work. These included the GCC Joint Statistical Work Strategy for 2026-2030, the impact of digital transformation in GCC statistical offices, the document for celebrating GCC Statistics Day, and a proposed technical support plan for national statistical offices for 2026. Additional items of emerging importance were also discussed.

On the sidelines of the meeting, the General Authority for Statistics in Riyadh organized a panel discussion on 10 December 2025, titled ‘International Statistical Standards: The Role of GCC Statistical Offices in Development and Implementation.’ The session aimed to emphasize the role of GCC statistical bodies in developing and applying international statistical standards, while promoting knowledge exchange and statistical cooperation.

The discussion covered key themes such as the harmonization of international standards across GCC statistical offices, strengthening partnerships with regional and international organizations, and showcasing the contributions of GCC countries to the development of global statistical standards and methodologies.

Dr. Khalifa bin Abdullah Al Barwani, CEO of NCSI, reaffirmed NCSI’s commitment to continue its role as an active partner in the GCC statistical system. He emphasized support for initiatives that enhance data quality and methodological alignment, ensuring high levels of efficiency and reliability in statistical indicators across the GCC.