In a historic move reflecting the growing professional standing of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the international stage, the Board of Directors of the International Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) announced that the Kingdom has won the presidency of its Board for the 2027-2028 term. This announcement was made during its meeting held in Cape Town, South Africa, where His Excellency Dr. Hossam bin Abdulmohsen Al-Anqari, President of the General Auditing Bureau and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Authority of Internal Auditors, will represent the Kingdom in this prestigious position.
Historical context and importance of the International Institute
Founded in 1941, the International Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is the world’s foremost professional authority in the field of internal auditing. Headquartered in Florida, USA, the IIA boasts a vast global network of over 245,000 members in approximately 200 countries and territories. Its core mission is to provide dynamic leadership to the profession by setting international standards for the professional practice of internal auditing, offering globally recognized professional certifications such as the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation, and providing opportunities for continuing education and professional development. Chairing the board of this prestigious organization places its holder at the heart of decision-making and shaping the future of the profession globally.
An unprecedented achievement for the Kingdom and the region
This victory is of exceptional significance as it marks the first time a figure from Asia or the Arab world has assumed this position since the Institute's founding more than eight decades ago. This achievement is credited to Dr. Hossam Al-Anqari, the first Asian and Arab to win the presidency of the Council, reflecting the significant international confidence in Saudi professional expertise and its ability to lead international organizations. This success is inextricably linked to the institutional efforts of the Saudi Authority for Internal Auditors, which have contributed to developing the internal audit system in the Kingdom, placing it among the top ten professional organizations in this field globally.
Expected impact at the local, regional, and international levels
This achievement reflects the Kingdom's transition from a mere participant to a leader and influencer in shaping the internal audit profession globally. Domestically, this victory enhances the profession's standing within the Kingdom and encourages the adoption of global best practices in governance, risk management, and control, aligning directly with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes transparency and efficiency. Regionally, this success solidifies the Kingdom's role as a leading center of knowledge and professional expertise in the Middle East. Internationally, the Kingdom will actively participate in shaping professional policies and standards and contribute to addressing future challenges facing the profession, such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, and sustainability.
Dr. Al-Anqari emphasized that this victory was not the result of individual effort, but rather the fruit of continuous institutional work and the unlimited support of the wise leadership. This presidency coincides with Riyadh hosting the International Conference of Internal Auditors in 2027, further solidifying the Kingdom's position as a global destination for major professional conferences and highlighting the advancements achieved by the internal auditing profession within its borders.
