DUBAI: The Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, FCSA, announced on Friday the kick-off of this year’s Economic Survey project. The Economic Survey is a series of annual statistical surveys targeting private sector enterprises and covering major economic activities, such as industry, construction, trade, services, transport and logistics. The economic surveys aim to provide a statistical database that contributes to the preparation economic variables estimates and national accounts in accordance with the proposed System of National Accounts, SNA, of the United Nations 2008. Additionally, the surveys provide data essential for purposes of research and in-depth economic analysis to support decision makers on issues and matters related to UAE’s national economy.
Mohammad Ahli, Executive Director of National Statistics and Data Sector at FCSA, stated: “The implementation of such specialised statistical surveys is consistent with FCSA’s strategy which aims to develop an integrated structure of the national statistical system covering all fields and functioning according to international statistical standards and approaches.” He went on to say: “The private sector is a prominent part of UAE’s statistical system and the involvement of this sector in local activities and initiatives is a trend that our wise government considers to be a key support for the development and improvement of UAE economy. FCSA has set up the plan to conduct the economic surveys in Ajman, Umm Al Qaiwain and Fujairah during October until December 2017”.
He pointed out: “We hope that all business owners cooperate with the field teams conducting the Economic Survey for its strategic importance to the country’s economy and the success of local enterprises. I would like also to stress the fact that all data given by the participating entities will be treated strictly confidential and used for statistical purposes only.”
Ahli also noted that survey findings will be used to generate essential data such as the number of operating enterprises, geographical distribution, by economic sector, activity, number of employees, production value, secondary activities, value of intermediate consumption, added value, assets movement, fixed capital formation and other relevant economic data. Indeed, all of which are looked at as important indicators that signal the strength and robustness of UAE’s economic sectors.
On her part Noura Ali, Acting Director of Methodology Department at FCSA, emphasised that survey forms will be electronically sent to participating entities so that they complete the survey digitally. This will help in providing an experience that is easy, swift, and maximises data privacy and confidentiality. Additionally, FCSA assigned a call centre dedicated for the Economy Survey to handle all the survey-related inquires via telephone number 046080222.
