SAMA Cybersecurity Framework

What is the SAMA Cybersecurity Framework?

The SAMA Cybersecurity Framework is a set of rules and guidelines issued by the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) to strengthen cybersecurity practices across banks, fintechs, insurance companies, and other regulated financial institutions in Saudi Arabia.

The framework establishes a unified approach to managing cyber risks, protecting sensitive financial data, and ensuring resilience against evolving cyber threats.

Why the SAMA Cybersecurity Framework Matters

Financial institutions in Saudi Arabia must adopt the framework to:

  • Safeguard customer data against breaches and cyberattacks

  • Ensure regulatory compliance with national security requirements

  • Strengthen resilience by identifying and mitigating cybersecurity risks

  • Promote industry-wide consistency in cybersecurity practices

  • Enhance trust among customers, regulators, and stakeholders

Key Domains of the SAMA Cybersecurity Framework

  1. Cybersecurity Governance – Establishing policies, roles, and accountability

  2. Risk Management – Identifying, assessing, and mitigating cyber risks

  3. Defense Controls – Technical measures like firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection

  4. Third-Party Security – Managing risks across vendors and outsourcing arrangements

  5. Incident Response & Recovery – Detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber incidents

  6. Compliance & Monitoring – Regular audits, assessments, and reporting to SAMA

Example in Practice

A Saudi bank implements the framework by:

  • Setting up a cybersecurity governance committee

  • Conducting annual cyber risk assessments

  • Establishing a security operations center (SOC) to monitor threats in real-time

  • Reporting compliance status to SAMA regulators

SAMA Cybersecurity Framework vs. Global Standards

  • SAMA Framework – Tailored to Saudi Arabia’s financial ecosystem and regulatory environment.

  • Global Standards (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001) – Provide international best practices but may require localization for regional compliance.

How VComply Can Help

VComply helps financial institutions comply with the SAMA Cybersecurity Framework by:

  • Automating policy management and cybersecurity control tracking

  • Mapping framework requirements to internal security practices

  • Centralizing vendor risk and third-party compliance monitoring

  • Enabling incident reporting and remediation tracking

  • Providing real-time dashboards for audits and regulatory reporting

With VComply, banks and fintechs can strengthen cybersecurity governance, reduce compliance burdens, and maintain continuous alignment with SAMA requirements.