In the evolving landscape of Saudi Arabia’s financial sector, the transition to IFRS 9 Financial Instruments has shifted the paradigm from “incurred loss” to a forward-looking Expected Credit Loss (ECL) framework. For Saudi banks, this isn’t just an accounting change; it’s a rigorous regulatory mandate overseen by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA).
Ensuring these complex ECL models are accurate, compliant, and robust requires a comprehensive Model Validation process. Below is an overview of the key requirements and expectations for banks operating within the Kingdom.
1. The Core Components of ECL Validation
SAMA requires banks to validate the three fundamental “pillars” of the ECL calculation. Each must be calibrated specifically to the unique dynamics of the Saudi market.
- Probability of Default (PD): Validation must ensure that the likelihood of a borrower defaulting is calculated using both historical data and forward-looking economic indicators.
- Loss Given Default (LGD): Models must accurately estimate the loss if a default occurs, accounting for Saudi-specific recovery timelines and collateral types (like local real estate).
- Exposure at Default (EAD): Banks must validate the projected amount of exposure at the time of default, especially for undrawn credit lines.
2. Forward-Looking Information (FLI) & Scenario Analysis
A standout requirement for Saudi banks is the mandatory inclusion of macroeconomic forecasts. SAMA typically expects a minimum of three weighted scenarios:
- Base Case: The most likely economic outlook.
- Optimistic Case: Reflecting high non-oil GDP growth and stable oil prices.
- Pessimistic Case: Accounting for global downturns or sharp drops in oil revenue.
Validation must verify that these scenarios are mathematically sound and that the “probability weightings” assigned to them are logically justified.
3. Staging and Significant Increase in Credit Risk (SICR)
Banks must categorize assets into three stages. A critical validation checkpoint is the SICR trigger. SAMA discourages over-reliance on the “30 days past due” rule, instead requiring banks to use qualitative indicators such as:
- Deterioration in internal credit ratings.
- Industry-specific stress (e.g., volatility in the energy sector).
- Restructuring or forbearance of loans.
| Stage | Risk Description | Provision Requirement |
| Stage 1 | Performing (No significant risk increase) | 12-Month ECL |
| Stage 2 | Underperforming (Significant risk increase) | Lifetime ECL |
| Stage 3 | Non-Performing (Credit-impaired/Default) | Lifetime ECL |
4. Governance and Independence
Perhaps the most crucial requirement is Independence. SAMA emphasizes that the unit validating the model must be distinct from the team that developed it.
- Audit Trails: Every manual “management overlay” (adjustments made outside the model) must have a clear, documented rationale.
- Data Integrity: Validation must confirm that the data used is granular and high-quality, avoiding “proxies” wherever possible.
- Quarterly Disclosures: Banks are required to provide detailed reports to SAMA showing movements between stages and the impact of economic variables.
Summary of Common Gaps in Saudi Banks
| Area | Frequent SAMA Finding |
| Documentation | Insufficient justification for forward-looking scenarios. |
| Staging | Waiting too long to move assets to Stage 2. |
| Governance | Conflicts of interest between model developers and validators. |
| Data | Low quality for LGD calculations, especially for collateral valuation. |
Conclusion
IFRS 9 validation is the “shield” that ensures a bank’s financial health isn’t just an estimate, but a reality. For Saudi banks, rigorous validation isn’t merely a box to tick for SAMA—it is a strategic asset. By maintaining independent oversight and high data integrity, banks ensure they remain resilient against economic shifts while supporting the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.
FineIT supports Saudi banks and financial institutions with end-to-end IFRS 9 services, including ECL model development, independent model validation, SAMA inspection readiness, and governance advisory—all aligned with local regulatory expectations and Saudi market dynamics.
Whether you are strengthening PD/LGD/EAD validation, refining SICR frameworks, or preparing for upcoming SAMA reviews, our specialists ensure your IFRS 9 framework is robust, auditable, and defensible.
Partner with FineIT to transform IFRS 9 compliance into a strategic advantage for your bank in Saudi Arabia.