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Saudi Arabia has undergone a remarkable transformation in its economic and social landscape in recent years, with female empowerment emerging as a key pillar of national development. While gender diversity initiatives have often been framed in terms of meeting quotas or compliance requirements, the real value lies far beyond mere numbers. Businesses in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) that actively integrate and empower women in leadership, decision-making, and entrepreneurship foster inclusivity and unlock a significant competitive advantage.

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with female leadership emerging as a driving force in the Kingdom’s economic and social evolution. Over the past decade, significant policy reforms and cultural shifts have empowered Saudi women to take on leadership roles in business, government, and entrepreneurship. As the country moves towards achieving Vision 2030, which prioritises female participation in the workforce, the question remains: What’s next for women in business, and how will female leadership shape Saudi Arabia’s future?

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a profound economic transformation, with gender inclusivity emerging as a central pillar of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. Historically, finance and advisory services have been male-dominated sectors, but the landscape is shifting rapidly as Saudi Arabia actively fosters greater female participation in the workforce. With progressive reforms, institutional support, and changing societal attitudes, women are increasingly assuming leadership roles and influencing the financial sector.

Saudi Arabia’s business landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven in no small part by the increasing presence of women in leadership roles. Historically, cultural and societal norms have placed significant barriers in handling female participation in the workforce. However, through progressive reforms, evolving societal attitudes, and a surge in entrepreneurial ambition, Saudi women are now reshaping the Kingdom’s economic landscape. From corporate boardrooms to innovative startups, they challenge long-standing conventions and set new benchmarks for success.

A significant update from the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA). On February 17, 2025, ZATCA issued a tax bulletin outlining the mechanism, requirements, and obligations for applying for VAT refunds on expenses incurred by donors for Public Benefit Projects, as per Article 70(a) of the KSA VAT Implementing Regulations.

The latest update is the Transfer Pricing Regulations will affect “All Entities” subject to Zakat. Hence, effective January 1, 2024, ZATCA has expanded the transfer pricing compliance requirements to include All Zakat Payers.

Stay informed about recent Ministerial Resolutions (No. 1007 and 947) that may impact your Zakat obligations. These resolutions offer Zakat payers the option to apply the new Zakat regulations (1445H) to previous years, providing potential benefits. It's important to note that the deadline to take advantage of these provisions is April 30, 2025.

The latest update is the Transfer Pricing Regulations will affect “All Entities” subject to Zakat. Hence, effective January 1, 2024, ZATCA has expanded the transfer pricing compliance requirements to include All Zakat Payers.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region has long been a hub for trade, finance, and innovation. However, as global markets evolve and economic landscapes shift, businesses must rethink their expansion strategies to remain competitive. Saudi Arabia, the largest economy in the region, has emerged as a model for transformation and growth, offering valuable lessons for other GCC companies looking to expand strategically.

Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a powerhouse in the global startup ecosystem, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship to build the next generation of billion-dollar companies. With a strategic vision, robust economic reforms, and increasing investment in technology and infrastructure, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a leading hub for startups aspiring to scale into unicorns.

This publication is designed to give preparers and reviewers of IFRS financial statements a high-level awareness of recent changes to International Financial Reporting Standards. It covers both new Standards and Interpretations that have been issued and amendments made to existing ones.

The new leases standard, IFRS 16, brings with it both greater transparency and a number of challenges for businesses. It requires companies to bring all operating leases on to the balance sheet for accounting periods starting on or after 1 January 2019, those still getting to grips with IFRS 16 need to act quickly to ensure compliance.

2022 saw profound changes in the world including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with its resulting energy crisis and the downgrade of global growth projections. I found myself increasingly proud of the collective resilience shown by Grant Thornton member firms, as they responded to these unique challenges while continuing to support their people and clients.

India and Saudi Arabia are uniquely positioned to collaborate and create a powerful start-up ecosystem due to their respective economic growth, demographic profiles, and strategic priorities. Both countries have firmly committed to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, making them ideal partners in the global start-up landscape. Their convergence presents a unique opportunity for both countries to leverage each other’s strengths, foster innovation, and accelerate economic transformation.

The CII-Grant Thornton Bharat report, ‘Unlocking opportunities: India-Saudi Arabia start-up ecosystem convergence’, serves as a comprehensive guide, highlighting the recent collaboration between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the start-up landscape. The report uncovers vast opportunities within the start-up ecosystem convergence and provides essential recommendations for investors, start-ups and policymakers to enhance and streamline this promising partnership.

Saudi Arabia (KSA) is undergoing a significant digital transformation across various sectors, and the accounting field is no exception. As technology advances, KSA's Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) have immense opportunities to harness digital tools and streamline financial processes. This article explores the digital transformation in KSA, the impact on accounting practices, and how CFOs can leverage technology to enhance economic efficiency and effectiveness.