GRC Softwares<br />

Introduction

As Saudi Arabia embraces Vision 2030, businesses across sectors face heightened expectations for governance, compliance, and risk management. With the regulatory landscape rapidly evolving—driven by authorities like the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA), and the Capital Market Authority (CMA)—organizations are under pressure to demonstrate accountability, resilience, and transparency. This has created a growing demand for reliable, scalable Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) software solutions.

This blog presents an evidence-backed analysis of the top 10 GRC software platforms in 2025, focusing on their capabilities, real-world performance, and relevance to Saudi enterprises. Whether you’re in finance, manufacturing, energy, or healthcare, selecting the right GRC tool can reduce compliance costs, minimize risk, and enhance operational efficiency.

What is GRC Software ?

GRC software is a suite of tools that help organizations manage three key pillars:

  • Governance: Ensuring strategic decision-making aligns with policies and stakeholder expectations
  • Risk Management: Identifying, evaluating, and mitigating enterprise risks
  • Compliance: Monitoring regulatory requirements and ensuring continuous adherence

Modern GRC platforms often integrate with core business systems like ERP, CRM, HRMS, and ITSM. They offer capabilities such as:

  • Policy and document management
  • Automated compliance workflows
  • Risk and control libraries
  • Real-time audit trails
  • Reporting and analytics

Why GRC Software Is Crucial for Saudi Arabia in 2025

Saudi Arabia has implemented several key regulations in recent years, each of which affects how businesses manage governance and risk:

  • SAMA Cybersecurity Framework (CRF) – Mandates risk assessments, cybersecurity controls, and incident response for financial institutions
  • NCA Essential Cybersecurity Controls (ECC) – Enforced across government and critical sectors for infrastructure protection
  • ISO 27001, 9001, 37301 – Widely adopted frameworks for information security, quality, and compliance management
  • Capital Market Authority (CMA) – Emphasizes structured board reporting and internal controls for listed entities

Failure to comply can lead to regulatory penalties, data breaches, reputational damage, and missed business opportunities.

Challenges Without a GRC System

Relying on spreadsheets or siloed tools for risk and compliance tracking leads to:

  • Manual errors and outdated data
  • Inability to detect or respond to emerging risks
  • Limited audit preparedness
  • Lack of centralized documentation
  • High operational overhead

Top 10 GRC Software Solutions for 2025 (Fact-Based Review)

  1. LogicGate Risk Cloud
  • Recognized by Forrester and Gartner for modular GRC architecture
  • Advanced risk quantification using Monte Carlo simulations
  • SOC 2 certified; widely adopted by fintech and SaaS companies
  1. RSA Archer
  • Market leader in IT & operational risk management (used by over 1,000 global enterprises)
  • Strong in regulatory change management and third-party risk
  • Deployed across BFSI, energy, and healthcare sectors
  1. MetricStream
  • Used by Fortune 500 companies including Shell, Pfizer, and HSBC
  • Offers mature modules for enterprise risk, audit, and ESG compliance
  • AI-driven issue remediation and dynamic risk assessments
  1. ServiceNow GRC
  • Integrated with ITSM, HR, and SecOps modules
  • Real-time continuous control monitoring
  • Extensively used in telecom, government, and IT service firms
  1. SAI360
  • Global presence with over 3 million users
  • Integrated ethics training and compliance workflows
  • GDPR, ISO 27001, and NIST-ready out-of-the-box
  1. Diligent GRC (formerly Galvanize)
  • Trusted by over 1,000 boardrooms globally
  • Strong in ESG, board governance, and audit analytics
  • Data residency options support local regulations
  1. CGBOD
  • Tailored for Saudi compliance requirements
  • Built-in ISO frameworks (9001, 27001, 37301)
  • Arabic UI and data hosting within Saudi Arabia
  • Ideal for SMEs and enterprises seeking cost-effective deployment
  1. NAVEX One
  • Offers policy, hotline, and training modules
  • Widely adopted in pharmaceuticals, education, and logistics
  • Ranked among top 3 for compliance automation by G2 Crowd
  1. OneTrust GRC
  • Leader in privacy, vendor risk, and third-party governance
  • Supports GDPR, PDPL (Saudi), and HIPAA frameworks
  • Integrates with 300+ applications for full lifecycle compliance
  1. AuditBoard
  • Focused on internal audit and SOX compliance
  • Preferred by U.S.-listed companies expanding into MENA
  • Real-time dashboards and workflow automation tools

Best Practices for Choosing GRC Software in Saudi Arabia

  • Assess Regulatory Fit: Check for frameworks like SAMA CRF, ISO 27001, NCA ECC
  • Arabic Language & Local Hosting: Ensure cultural and regulatory alignment
  • Pilot the Tool: Test usability and reporting features
  • Integration Capabilities: Avoid data silos by syncing with your ERP/HRMS
  • Vendor Credibility: Seek providers with presence or partners in Saudi Arabia

Case Study : Mid-Market Saudi Bank Deploys CGBOD

Facing growing SAMA audit requirements and poor documentation practices, a mid-market Riyadh-based bank transitioned to CGBOD. Over 12 months, they:

  • Cut audit prep time by 58%
  • Created centralized risk dashboards
  • Gained ISO 37301 (Compliance Management) certification
  • Improved board reporting accuracy by 70%

Conclusion

2025 is a pivotal year for GRC transformation in Saudi Arabia. As local and global regulations tighten, the demand for transparent, real-time risk and compliance management continues to rise. GRC software enables businesses to turn complexity into clarity—building resilience, ensuring compliance, and fostering stakeholder trust.

Whether you choose a global leader or a localized solution like CGBOD, the right GRC platform will be central to achieving operational excellence and regulatory peace of mind.