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Launching the Road to Riyadh: Building Momentum Toward UNWDF 2026

Launching the Road to Riyadh: Building Momentum Toward UNWDF 2026

Led by the General Statistics Authority of Saudi Arabia (GASTAT)—the next country co-host of the UN World Data Forum—the Road to Riyadh marks the official launch of an ambitious, year-long journey toward the sixth UN World Data Forum (UNWDF 2026) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

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Over the next 11 months, GASTAT will convene 16 regional and international events designed to build momentum, foster collaboration, and advance discussions on statistical data for sustainable development. Road to Riyadh is a dynamic series of events structured to align with national priorities as well as regional and global agendas, including the thematic areas and sub-themes of UNWDF 2026. This strategic approach by GASTAT is paving the way for a historic UN World Data Forum in Riyadh.

Through dialogues, workshops, and thematic convenings, the Road to Riyadh brings together partners across the global data ecosystem to spotlight progress, share lessons, and mobilize new initiatives—ensuring that discussions today translate into concrete outcomes by the time the Forum convenes in 2026.

Commit to Data is a key pillar of this journey. Launched at UNWDF 2024 in Medellín, Commit to Data provides a shared platform for voluntary, time-bound commitments to strengthen data systems for sustainable development. As part of the Road to Riyadh, Commit to Data supports ongoing engagement by tracking progress on existing commitments, welcoming new ones, and creating opportunities for partners to align efforts in the lead-up to UNWDF 2026.

One of the early Road to Riyadh events will feature Commit to Data in collaboration with General Statistics Authority of Saudi Arabia, highlighting progress since Medellín and exploring how effective partnerships and coordinated action can help shape a strong and lasting legacy for the Forum.

As momentum builds toward Riyadh, the Road to Riyadh offers a clear and inclusive pathway for engagement—connecting commitments made today to impact delivered at UNWDF 2026 and beyond.