Introduction:

According to the United Nations recommendations, all countries shall undertake national censuses one year before the General Census of Population, Housing and Establishments, for the purpose of international comparison.

1. Objectives of Pilot Census:

• Test for all steps of conducting field census operations.


• Testing census forms, examining their contents and investigating simplicity of questions included in these forms.


• Testing the use of the Personal Digital Assistants (PDA) - known as Palmtop computer-in all data collection processes (nationals, establishment owners…etc) to ensure effectiveness and measure promptness of gaining the results.


• Evaluating the staff performance average in different steps and estimate the required number of the forthcoming General Census staff.


• Evaluating accuracy of implementation of local and central training programs and assessing the performance of office and field staff.

2. Sample Areas:

Sample areas were selected based on gradual steps as follows:

• Four municipalities (namely Doha, Al Rayyan, Al Wakra, Umm salal) were selected, as they represent around 95% of Qatar's population.


• All blocks that consist of 100-150 complete census buildings within municipalities were selected, according to the 2008 comprehensive real estate survey.


• Some 21 blocks that include all census elements were defined (Qatari and non-Qatari households, small gathering, large gathering).


• Four census blocks were selected; each block represents a municipality.


• The estimated number of buildings, establishments, households and gatherings for each block has been identified.

3. Structure of the field staff

(4) Inspectors (8) supervisors (30) enumerators.​