Saudi Arabia Elevates Global Internal Auditing Standards, Says Auditors Chief

The Saudi Institute of Internal Auditors participated in the 2024 International Conference of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) as a "diamond sponsor." Held in Washington from July 15 to 17, the event attracted 2,300 internal auditors globally. The institute presented five speakers who shared successful professional experiences from Saudi Arabia.

Abdullah Saleh Al-Shebeili, Chief Executive of the Saudi Institute of Internal Auditors, highlighted the institute's participation in international forums. He emphasised enhancing Saudi Arabia's representation and showcasing its leading role in internal auditing. The aim is to share successful Saudi experiences and contribute to the profession's Vision 2035 goals.

"The Saudi Institute of Internal Auditors aims to use international engagements to bring the latest advancements in the profession to Saudi Arabia," Al-Shebeili said today. "This will enhance practitioners' skills, bolster the professional image to align with global changes, and prepare us for future developments in the internal auditing profession worldwide. Furthermore, our goal is to benefit from the recommendations and practices that stem from the conference."

The conference covered seven main topics related to internal auditing practices: artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, fraud and crime; sustainability; international internal auditing standards; governance; leadership; relations with the board of directors; and human and social capital.

The institute's participation aimed at enhancing practitioners' skills and aligning with global changes. This involvement also prepares for future developments in internal auditing worldwide. Additionally, it seeks to benefit from recommendations and practices discussed at such conferences.

Vision 2035 and Global Engagement

The speakers from Saudi Arabia covered various topics including Vision 2035 for the profession, the consultant's role in internal auditing, integrated assurance processes across lines of defence, audit considerations in construction projects, and Saudi Arabia's leading role regionally and internationally.

The goal is also to showcase the institute's role in developing the profession globally. Sharing successful Saudi experiences contributes significantly to this objective.

By participating in these forums, Saudi Arabia aims to enhance its representation on an international level. This engagement underscores its impact on internal auditing as a profession.

The conference provided a platform for sharing insights on key areas such as AI, cybersecurity, fraud prevention, sustainability practices, governance standards, leadership dynamics, board relations, and human capital management.

In conclusion, these efforts are part of a broader strategy to align with global advancements while preparing for future challenges within internal auditing.

With inputs from SPA