Oman continues to strengthen its role in the GCC audit cooperation plan by joining a key regional meeting. The State Audit Institution (SAI) represented the Sultanate at the 26th session of Undersecretaries from Financial and Accounting Bureaus in the Gulf. SAI’s Deputy Chairman for Audit of Government Units, Ahmed bin Salim Al Rujaibi, led Oman’s delegation.
The meeting took place virtually, hosted by the State of Kuwait. It featured several core discussions focused on improving joint training and professional development. The participants reviewed the GCC audit cooperation plan, especially the outcomes of the 2023–2025 strategic training plan.
Furthermore, delegates explored the upcoming training plan for 2026–2028. They aimed to align skills development with new auditing demands across the region. These shared goals reflect the increasing need for unified standards in financial oversight.
In addition, the attendees reviewed the results of the sixth Gulf competition for research and studies in audit and accounting. This contest continues to support innovation in public sector auditing. The plan benefits directly from such collaborative initiatives.
Moreover, the meeting included updates on a Memorandum of Understanding between the General Secretariat of the GCC and the King Fahd National Library. This agreement strengthens knowledge sharing and access to professional resources.
Another major focus was the draft regulations for the GCC Professional Excellence Award. The participants examined these rules in detail to encourage outstanding achievements in government auditing. This award will help reinforce performance goals within the GCC audit cooperation plan.
Additionally, the meeting featured a draft of the joint training plan for 2026–2027. The group discussed training needs and proposed new educational modules for staff across GCC bureaus. These initiatives support long-term capacity building.
The session also reviewed a proposal from the Audit Rules Working Group. This group introduced tools for evaluating the use of auditing manuals and simplifying their application. They also presented ideas for improving governance of audit mechanisms within the GCC framework.
One notable proposal included setting aside a specific Gulf week for financial and accounting audit awareness. This suggestion could increase public understanding and professional engagement.
The participants prepared a draft agenda for the next meeting of GCC Financial and Accounting Audit Bureau leaders. That high-level event will bring together heads of audit institutions to shape future policy.
