Income Distribution In the upcoming year of 2024, a significant survey is set to launch in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, focusing on assessing family expenditure levels and income distribution. Spearheaded by Hanan Ali Al Marzouqi, the Director of the Field Surveys Department, this initiative is part of a broader nationwide effort aimed at gathering periodic data on households, with a specific emphasis on demographic and family traits.
Examining the Cost of Living Across the Emirate
The ‘Household Income and Expenditure Survey’ will delve into the intricacies of the cost of living for diverse income categories in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. This inclusive approach encompasses varying income groups, spanning from low to high. Notably, this year’s survey introduces a novel focus on poverty indicators, seeking to address the pressing challenges of poverty in the Abu Dhabi region.
Evaluating Economic Factors and Consumer Trends: Income Distribution
Beyond family finances, the survey will explore economic factors and assess the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Abu Dhabi. This involves scrutinizing primary commodities and their suitability for future needs, providing a nuanced understanding of economic dynamics in the region.
A Collaborative Effort for Nationwide Insights: Income Distribution
Conducted every five years in collaboration with the Ministry of Community Development and the federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), the survey sets an ambitious target of 19,000 families across the UAE. In Abu Dhabi alone, the survey aims to collect data from around 11,000 households in 260 areas, with a sample composition of 70% Emirati households and 30% non-Emirati households. The extensive scope of the survey involves the active participation of 252 field researchers.
Informing Legislation and Government Strategies
The survey’s database is anticipated to provide crucial indicative information for the country’s legislative body and executive government agencies. By offering insights into average spending patterns, income specifics, and food budgets, it becomes a valuable tool for constructing Consumer Price Index (CPI) baskets.
Extending Reach to Labor Camps: A Holistic Approach
Going beyond traditional boundaries, the survey extends its reach to labor camps, aiming to understand how workers allocate their income. This includes an assessment of remittances and an exploration of whether the current income adequately meets their needs. These findings are pivotal for evaluating and enhancing the overall quality of life.
Supporting Projects and National Accounts: Income Distribution
Abdulla Gharib Alqemzi, Acting Director General of the Statistics Centre, emphasizes that the collected data serves not only to inform but also to support projects, establish relationships, and estimate national accounts related to income and consumption. The Household Income and Expenditure Survey stands as one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive surveys, providing nuanced insights into factors influencing family finances and broader economic dynamics.
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