STAP International Journal of Accounting and Business Intelligence

ISSN: 3105-3726

Artificial Intelligence in Auditing: Transforming Processes for Enhanced Effectiveness

by 

Ahmad Hardan ;

Mohammad Ghabayen

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Published: 2025/04/20

Abstract

The digital transformation, driven by exponentially increasing data and complex business operations, necessitates a paradigm shift in the auditing profession. This qualitative study explores how the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems enhances the effectiveness of the auditing process. Through semi-structured interviews with nine auditors in Saudi Arabia, the research investigates AI's role across pre-planning, planning, execution, and reporting stages. Findings reveal that AI significantly improves audit accuracy, speed, and efficiency by automating repetitive tasks, enabling full-population data analysis, and facilitating continuous auditing. While cost, skill intensity, and potential algorithmic bias are challenges, the benefits, including enhanced professional judgment and compliance with standards, are seen to outweigh the drawbacks. The study proposes a modified research model emphasizing auditor competence and skepticism as crucial factors for maximizing AI's positive impact on audit effectiveness. This work contributes to the nascent literature on AI in auditing and offers practical insights for auditors and corporate governance.

Keywords

Artificial IntelligenceAuditingEffectivenessSaudi Arabia

Artificial Intelligence in Auditing: Transforming Processes for Enhanced Effectiveness is licensed under CC BY 4.0CCBY

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