RIYADH: Saudi citizens and residents will be able to take part in the Kingdom’s 2022 census via their computer or smartphone following the launch of an online questionnaire. General Authority for Statistics official spokesperson Mohammed bin Saad Al-Dakhini said that the electronic option is designed to “smooth the way” and make it easier for people to respond to the survey from May 10-25. Al-Dakhini said that participation in the census is mandatory, and those who disrupt census work or fail to give the required information will face financial penalties. The GASTAT spokesperson said that taking part in the census is a “national duty and a responsibility shared by society,” adding that the 2022 survey will help prepare for a better future by providing reliable data for the development of public services, including education and health. The Kingdom’s fifth national census will provide detailed information about the population of the Kingdom, including ages, nationalities and the distribution of income across regions, and the health status of people living in cities compared with those in rural areas. HIGH LIGHT General Authority for Statistics official spokesperson Mohammed bin Saad Al-Dakhini said that participation in the census is mandatory, and those who disrupt census work or fail to give the required information will face financial penalties. Kiosks will be provided at 29 shopping centers across the Kingdom to offer help with the census questionnaire. More than 30,000 field staff are also on standby to visit people’s homes and collect the required information. Census participants can also complete the form and have their queries answered through the unified toll-free number 9200 20081, as well as the authority’s accounts on social media channels. Those wanting to complete the census form electronically through their smartphones or computers can visit the online portal via https://survey.saudicensus.sa/ar The Saudi census is conducted every 10 years by GASTAT, with the 2022 survey playing an important role in the nation’s Vision 2030 development and diversification planning. More than 25 government agencies, including the ministries of interior, health and education, and the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence, are involved in the census operation. Preliminary estimates put the Saudi population in mid-2020 at more than 35 million. The previous census processes took place in 1974, 1992, 2004, and 2010. The most recent survey showed that the country’s population had risen to more than 27 million, with almost 7 million people in the Makkah region, the most populous of the country’s 13 administrative regions. Many countries conduct a comprehensive census every 10 years to obtain up-to-date, accurate and detailed data about the population, including its geographical distribution, and social and economic characteristics. Accurate data allows officials, planners and politicians to allocate budgets more effectively and develop comprehensive strategies that can help keep pace with urban development. It also aids efforts to plan for future needs based on expected population growth, contribute to development plans and provide vital public services such as education, healthcare and transport.