The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) introduced the Cyber Resilience Fundamental Requirements (CRFR) in January 2022 as part of its commitment to strengthen the cyber resilience of the Kingdom's financial sector.
The CRFR framework was specifically designed for newly established entities, fintech startups, and financial service providers that are either seeking entry into the SAMA Regulatory Sandbox or applying for a license to operate in Saudi Arabia.
In today's digital economy, customers expect uninterrupted services, flawless user experience, and strong protection of their sensitive data. With the rapid growth of fintech solutions, online banking platforms, and digital payment services, organizations face increased exposure to cyberattacks, fraud, and operational disruptions.
SAMA CRFR addresses these challenges by defining a minimum but fundamental set of cybersecurity and resilience requirements that organizations must implement to ensure service availability, data confidentiality, and regulatory compliance. By adopting SAMA CRFR compliance, organizations not only meet licensing requirements but also establish a foundation for trust, operational stability, and long-term growth.
The CRFR framework is structured into three key domains, each addressing essential aspects of cybersecurity and operational resilience. Together, they form the baseline controls that financial institutions must implement before scaling towards advanced frameworks like SAMA CSF (Cybersecurity Framework) and BCMF (Business Continuity Management Framework).
Effective cyber resilience starts at the leadership level. CRFR emphasizes that organizations must establish strong governance practices to oversee and manage cybersecurity efforts strategically.
The operations and technology domain of CRFR focuses on practical security controls and technical safeguards required to protect an organization's IT infrastructure, applications, and digital services.
The resilience domain ensures that organizations can withstand, respond to, and recover from disruptions, whether caused by cyberattacks, system failures, or natural disasters.
We offer a structured approach to help organizations achieve SAMA CRFR compliance through comprehensive audit, consultancy, and advisory services.
A detailed review of your current controls, governance, and resilience measures against SAMA CRFR requirements.
Each gap is analyzed to determine the cyber and business risks it poses, ensuring remediation is risk-driven.
We provide a prioritized, step-by-step action plan for achieving compliance efficiently.
Our consultants assist in deploying the required policies, technical safeguards, and resilience measures.
We perform a full audit to ensure your entity meets all CRFR controls before SAMA reviews or licensing.
Since threats evolve, we provide continuous guidance, awareness training, and compliance monitoring.
Adopting SAMA CRFR is not just about ticking a regulatory checkbox, it's about building a trusted, resilient, and secure fintech environment.
Mandatory for organizations applying for a SAMA license or participating in the Regulatory Sandbox.
Strengthens your ability to anticipate, withstand, and recover from cyberattacks, fraud, and operational disruptions.
Demonstrates your commitment to safeguarding data and ensuring uninterrupted services, building stronger trust with clients.
Serves as a steppingstone towards broader SAMA frameworks such as the Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) and Business Continuity Management Framework (BCMF).
Minimizes the chance of application rejection, regulatory penalties, or operational restrictions due to non-compliance.
Partnering with us for SAMA CRFR compliance audit and consultancy services ensures that you are working with experienced professionals who understand both local regulatory requirements and global best practices.
Extensive experience with SAMA CRFR, CSF, BCMF, and MVC, ensuring deep understanding of regulatory expectations.
From gap assessments and remediation planning to audits and ongoing advisory, we provide complete compliance support.
Customized solutions that align security and resilience requirements with your unique business model and operational needs.
Trusted by fintech startups, financial institutions, and regulated entities across the Kingdom.
Recommendations designed to achieve compliance while minimizing disruption and supporting long-term growth.
Contact us to discuss your Cyber Resilience Fundamental Requirements compliance needs