Saudi Census 2022: One of Most Robust Censuses in Recent Times
In preparation for the Saudi Census 2022, one of the most robust censuses in recent times, the General Authority for Statistics conducted a pilot count from September 2021. This pilot included seven major cities across Saudi Arabia.
It aimed to test the census form and operational tools, such as self-counting and electronic questionnaire completion.
The lessons learned from this pilot were instrumental in shaping the methodology and technical systems for the official census.
Innovations and Methodology in Saudi Census 2022
The Saudi Census 2022 is considered one of the most robust censuses in recent times in the Arab region. The blend of registry data with field counting, coupled with high-level government collaboration and digital infrastructure.
This contributed to the data’s quality. The census methodology, described as highly professional, went through several stages, from initial preparation to data collection, analysis, treatment, and finally, the publication of results.
Technological Advances in the Census Process
The census used self-counting and reliance on geographical spatial data. Satellite imagery was used to improve geographic coverage and address accuracy, ensuring no residence was overlooked. This advanced approach allowed for high precision in verifying housing data.
Data Verification and Quality Assurance Efforts
A dedicated team was responsible for reviewing and verifying the collected data. More than one million calls were made to ensure work quality. In addition to this, approximately 900,000 field visits were conducted to confirm the accuracy and quality of the data.
Comparisons across five different data sources, reviewed through 200 quality indicators, provided a highly accurate population database for economic and social policy formulation.
The Census’s Impact on Policy Making and Urban Planning
The census project plays a vital role in providing accurate, reliable data and diverse statistical indicators about Saudi Arabia’s population composition.
These indicators support decision-makers and contribute to the development of plans and policies across various sectors and fields.
International Recognition and Acclaim
International experts, like Nancy Steagler, a specialist in statistics and population studies, lauded the Saudi Census 2022 project.
She noted the high professionalism, knowledge, and motivation among the more than 35,000 personnel involved, of whom 20% were women. This high participation of women demonstrated their crucial role in executing the census operations.
The Uniqueness of Saudi Census 2022
Nancy also commended the use of over 100 global standards in conducting population censuses and the adoption of modern techniques in all stages of the census. She highlighted the exceptional preparations and readiness for the census in Saudi Arabia, even amidst challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.
The high governance in managing the census project ensured daily progress tracking and challenge resolution, setting Saudi Census 2022 as a unique model globally.
Ensuring Data Quality and Transparency
The General Authority for Statistics emphasized using the best modern techniques in the census project, including establishing a control room for daily monitoring and surveillance.
This approach aimed to increase data quality and ensure transparency and accuracy according to international best practices. An independent team of experts from the United Nations verified the data quality, adding an additional layer of credibility to the process.
The Census as a Pioneering Experience in Global Population Studies
The Saudi Census 2022 has been recognized as a pioneering experience in population censuses worldwide. The project’s clear structuring and high governance played a significant role in its success, especially in the field counting and data collection phases.
The work teams across Saudi Arabia’s regions collaborated seamlessly, contributing to the outstanding execution of all census operations.
Breaking New Ground in Data Collection Techniques
International expert David Best noted that the Saudi Census 2022 surpassed challenges faced by countries like the UK over the past 200 years. The General Authority for Statistics relied on diverse technical methods to increase population coverage and elevate data quality.
The use of satellite imagery and geographical information, coupled with modern predictive and analytical technologies, achieved unprecedented accuracy and comprehensiveness in the census project.
Innovative Presentation of Census Data
One of the key success factors was the interactive presentation of census data. The data were transformed into visual information, making them easily readable and beneficial. This transformation of data into digital visual formats facilitated the alignment of collected data with registry data.
Recognition of Efforts and Achievements
Experts like Dr. David praised the General Authority for Statistics for its high commitment to transparency in all project phases.
The Saudi Census 2022 followed the best modern techniques in forecasting and analysis. Therefore, it achieved a high degree of accuracy and comprehensiveness. Dr. Alexander Koarick, a specialist in statistical methods, also commended Saudi Arabia’s achievements in the project, highlighting the commitment to data privacy and the application of the highest international standards in data protection.
Reflecting a Promising Demographic Reality
Dr. Mohammad Al-Hajji, a behavioral and social sciences expert, confirmed that the Saudi Census 2022 statistics reflect a promising demographic reality for Saudi Arabia. He revealed that the average age of Saudis is 25 years, with 63% of the population under 30 years old.
This demographic window places the country in a position of potential economic growth, with a significant proportion of the population being work-eligible.
The presence of fewer children and elderly individuals implies fewer health and social challenges. This demographic window will last approximately 40-50 years before the social context changes.
Most countries conduct a comprehensive census every ten years. This process provides detailed, accurate data about population distribution and characteristics. These statistics are crucial for developing comprehensive strategies that align with urban development and meet future population growth needs. Therefore, they contribute to development plans, offering insights for public services like healthcare, education, and transportation.
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