In an era marked by geopolitical tensions, rapid technological advancements, and evolving regulatory landscapes, the importance of Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) programmes has never been more critical. Experts emphasize that GRC is no longer a back-office function but a strategic capability essential for organizational resilience and integrity. As the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) undergoes significant transformation—driven by diversification, digitalization, and emerging industries—GRC must evolve to address new risks and opportunities.
According to Besfort Kuqi, CEO of Swiss GRC, the GCC’s rapid pace of change demands a proactive approach to GRC. He highlights that successful GRC programmes are rooted in organizational culture, requiring leadership commitment and a clear vision from the top. Kuqi stresses that GRC must be simple, effective, and accessible, enabling organizations to manage risks in a structured and reliable manner.
The complexity of today’s business environment, characterized by fragmented supply chains, local content regulations, and cybersecurity threats, necessitates a 360-degree view of risk. Dallal Slimani of Schneider Electric underscores the importance of end-to-end visibility, enabled by technology, to make informed decisions. Rajeev Dutt of Swiss GRC adds that modern GRC programmes must leverage automation to streamline workflows, eliminate redundancies, and create a single source of truth.
AI governance is emerging as a critical frontier in GRC, requiring a sociotechnical approach that integrates people, culture, and technology. Akshay Dalal of Google emphasizes that responsible AI is fundamentally a human challenge, not just a technological one. Organizations must adopt adaptable frameworks and embed responsible-AI thinking into their GRC practices to navigate the complexities of AI-driven change.
Ultimately, GRC is transforming from a compliance function into a strategic enabler, empowering organizations to innovate responsibly, build resilience, and achieve sustainable growth. As Dalal aptly notes, there is no one-size-fits-all solution—each organization must tailor its GRC approach to its unique challenges and risks.