Abstract

In response to the growing demand for timely, relevant, and policy-aligned data, the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD) adopted a structured and multi-channel approach to systematically collect, prioritize, and translate user needs into effective planning for both official and experimental statistics. This approach ensures that statistical output remains responsive to decision-making requirements while supporting national and local strategic priorities.
User needs were gathered through several complementary channels, including the Abu Dhabi foundational strategy and key priorities, federal requirements related to competitiveness, international benchmarks and emerging global statistical trends, as well as continuous engagement through user meetings and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems. In addition, direct outreach was conducted with government and semi-government entities to identify new and emerging statistical requirements, ensuring comprehensive coverage of sector-specific data needs.
Within this integrated user needs assessment framework, the Statistical Retreat for Statistical Portfolio Planning, convened in 2025, served as a collaborative platform to consolidate, review, and validate the requirements collected through all channels. Organized under the theme “Shaping Statistical User Needs Through Collaboration,” the retreat brought together representatives from over 50 government and semi-government entities through structured discussions and technical sessions, supporting alignment and coherence across stakeholder inputs.
The consolidated user needs informed the development of the Abu Dhabi Statistical Portfolio (ADSP), which includes more than 800 new statistical values covering both official and experimental statistics. To fulfill these needs, SCAD initiated the development of new statistical registers and strengthened statistical production planning to ensure comprehensive and sustainable coverage.
To support coordinated production and strong governance, a Statistical Steering Committee was established, comprising 13 members from Other Producers of Official Statistics (OPOS) entities, ensuring alignment of requirements and supporting evidence-based decision-making.