1. What is the Population Census?
A census provides comprehensive information on the population of Qatar and it is conducted every 10 years. A simplified mid-decade census will be conducted in 2015 in March and April. The last full Census was conducted in 2010. Everyone is asked the same questions so that we get a snapshot of the population. Thus, the Census is used to count the number of people and households in each area, and their characteristics. It is the only survey which provides a detailed picture of the entire population, housing and establishments. It makes it easy to compare different parts, areas and social segments in the country. The statistics provided in the census will allow government agencies, the private sector and investors to use their resources more effectively.
2. What is your role in the Census?
The Census is a national task. Everyone should cooperate with enumerators and provide them with accurate and correct information that will later be used by planners and decision makers. Accuracy of the data is important. Drawing an accurate picture of Qatar depends on you.
3. Who is responsible for conducting the Census?
The Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics (MDPS) is directly responsible for conducting this major statistical undertaking and making the necessary arrangements for conducting the field operations.
4. Is the Census mandatory?
The Census is mandatory. Participation in the census will contribute to coming up with complete statistical results that help the formulation of national development strategies emanating from Qatar National Vision 2030.
5. How should I fill in the form?
MDPS developed an easy to use questionnaire. It also assigned enumerators to fill in these forms using palmtops (PDAs). So, heads of household are only requested to provide accurate information requested.
6. How long will it take to complete the form?
The form has been designed to be as clear as possible and completion will take about 15 minutes on average.
7. Who should fill out the census form?
The head of household should provide enumerators with complete answers on behalf of every person living in the residence on 20 April 2015, including relatives and non-relatives (housemaids, drivers). He/she should provide information about all household members (including himself/herself and infants) who reside at the address most of the time. The person also should include people who are staying there on 20 April 2010, who have no permanent place to stay. He/she will receive a short form (prior to the census day) to complete the required information such as names of family members, date of birth, and ID number.
8. I am not from Qatar, will I need to complete a questionnaire?
Yes, the Census should be completed by all regardless of nationality.
9. How will I be counted if I live in Labor gatherings, hotel or other managed residential accommodation?
Special arrangements will be made for the enumeration of large communal establishments.
10. What kind of questions will be asked?
The Census form will contain numerous simple questions about members of the household in terms of age, sex, and nationality.
11. What about anyone who is away from home on Census night?
Head of household need to include anyone who usually resides in his household but is away from home on Census night. for further questions, please ask the enumerator or call our toll free number (8000800).
12. Can I complete my questionnaire online?
Yes, you have the option of completing your questionnaire online. Our Census field staff will provide you with instructions (Name and password) when they visit your home or you can call our toll free number (8000800) or visit:
www.mdps.gov.qa
13. How will the Census be conducted?
The 2015 Census will require a large field force. Most of these are enumerators who carry with them special devices (PDAs) into which the census information is entered in different languages.
14. How is the Census conducted?
Census staff will visit every building to get a list of households and establishments. Every household in Qatar will be visited by an enumerator to obtain information on the family.
15. What is the next step?
All the data collected by enumerators will be captured through their special devices (PDAs) and sent to the central processing center at the Ministry where the data will be subject to review and quality control to validate their accuracy. The responses will be coded and stored. Then the results will be tabulated and summary data published.
16. Will Census returns be confidential?
Yes, the Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics guarantees confidentiality of individual data, which will be used for census purposes only. The confidentiality of the information provided on individuals, households and establishments is protected by the Law of Statistics N0. (2) for 2011.
17. What help will be available?
The Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics provides a direct telephone line (800-0800) through which the public can enquire about any point related to the 2015 Census. You can also enter the ministry website to get acquainted with the questions, concepts and definitions used in the Census form. MDPS website is:
www.mdps.gov.qa
18. When will the results be available?
The results will be released three months after Census Day and will be made available on MDPS website. Paper publications and CDs will also be made available later.
19. Why does the Census need my telephone number?
We may need to clarify your form responses. If we have a telephone number, we may be able to do this without having to send a census worker to your home. Your telephone number is kept confidential, as are all your responses.
20. How can you ensure that I won’t I get counted twice?
The ministry has procedures to eliminate duplicate forms. There is an ID number associated with each household’s form. This prevents us from counting you more than once.
