The General Court of Audit (GCA) in Saudi Arabia has hosted its sixth Internal Audit Forum at its headquarters in Riyadh.
The programme conducted on 11 May 2025, in alignment with International Internal Audit Awareness Month drew over 550 leaders and specialists, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
A central feature of the forum was the launch of the “Internal Assistant,” an AI-powered tool designed to provide immediate, accurate responses for internal auditing queries.
Developed in line with the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing from the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) and the Unified Regulations for Internal Audit Units in Government Entities and Public Institutions, the tool is tailored for public sector auditors to boost efficiency and performance.
GCA Internal Audit supervisor general Dr Seita Almandeel stressed the strategic role of internal auditors as advisors and decision-making partners.
She emphasised the need for ongoing education and professional development, highlighting GCA’s initiatives such as the “Knowledge Community for Internal Auditors”.
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By GlobalDataIn a LinkedIn post, Institute of Internal Auditors president and CEO Anthony Pugliese said: “I was grateful for the opportunity to share insights on the future of our profession and to engage with inspiring internal audit leaders from across the Kingdom.
In a keynote at the event, he spoke about the integration of modern technologies such as AI in internal auditing.
Pugliese also highlighted “a global shift towards expanding the advisory role of auditors”, with industry leaders intending to allocate “up to 40% of audit plans to consulting activities within the next decade”.
The forum also included panel discussions on accrual accounting and IT general regulations, an exhibition, and interactive workshops.
The GCA’s forum sought to enhance internal audit practices in government organisations, especially during the shift to accrual accounting, while promoting professional expertise and tackling current challenges and opportunities in the field.
