10 Best Accounting Software in Saudi Arabia (2023)

As business operations in Saudi Arabia grow more complex, companies need technology to manage finances efficiently while complying with regulations like VAT and Saudization. However, the unique payroll, taxation, invoicing, and reporting needs in the Kingdom require accounting software localized for Saudi businesses. The right solution helps streamline bookkeeping and provide financial insights without extensive accounting training.

This post explores 10 leading accounting platforms for Saudi-based businesses based on Arabic language support, VAT capabilities, localization, mobility, analytics, and overall value optimizing financial management. Any Saudi business can benefit from adopting one of these solutions tailored to the Kingdom.

Which is best accounting software in Saudi Arabia?

Here is a table summarizing the pros and cons of the top accounting software options for businesses in Saudi Arabia:

Software	Pros	Cons
QuickBooks Online	Popular globally; Arabic interface; payroll taxes	Not exclusive to Saudi market
Xero	User-friendly; Arabic; VAT compliant	Limited localized features beyond language
Toon Finance	Built for Saudi market; Arabic; local support	Less known brand than global options
Zahara	Designed for KSA and Gulf; integrations	Light on advanced capabilities
eAccountingKSA	Specialized for small Saudi business	Very lightweight functionality
Walaa Accounting	Localized Arabic platform; tax compliant	Small vendor with limited support
Sara Finance	Customized solutions; local support	Requires consultation and customization
SADAD eInvoicing	Free regulated e-invoices	Purely invoicing, not full accounting
ERPNext	Open source; high local configurability	Requires technical skills for setup
Oracle NetSuite	Global platform; Arabic-enabled	Expensive; extensive implementation

QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online provides one of the most popular small business accounting systems in Saudi Arabia. The Arabic interface facilitates use by non-English speakers. Integrated payroll automatically calculates Saudi taxes and social insurance.

VAT-compliant invoicing handles 5% tax rate. QuickBooks syncs bank accounts for automated reconciliation and reporting. Detailed analytics and financial statements provide insights without accounting expertise. While not Saudi-exclusive, QuickBooks Online delivers core financial features localized for the Kingdom.

Xero

Xero offers another leading international accounting platform suitable for Saudi businesses. The user interface localizes into Arabic for broader access. Automated VAT calculations support compliance during the invoice process. Bank feeds reconcile accounts in real-time.

Configurable dashboards deliver financial insights at a glance. Xero partners with payroll providers like WPS and Cloud STP for localized payroll. Reports comply with Saudi regulations. For essential yet affordable cloud accounting in Saudi Arabia, Xero satisfies.

Toon Finance

Saudi-based Toon offers full-featured Arabic accounting software designed for the local market. It goes beyond translating by providing templates, reporting, and workflows suited specifically for Saudi companies. Localized payroll handles Saudi taxes and Saudization requirements automatically.

VAT-ready invoicing accelerates compliance. Granular user permissions aid security. Toon also provides local customer support and integrates with local payment and bank transfer methods. For the best localized accounting experience, Toon warrants first consideration.

Zahara

Zahara developed its online accounting platform specifically for small business needs in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region. The system localizes fully into Arabic with support for right-to-left text. Localized features include invoicing, inventory management, VAT calculations, supplier payments, accounting, and reporting.

Zahara integrates with Saudi bank accounts. Configuration handles business licenses, taxation, and regulations in the Kingdom. Zahara provides excellent online accounting automation tailored for essential Saudi finance workflows.

eAccountingKSA

eAccountingKSA caters specifically to small business accounting requirements in Saudi Arabia. It provides web and mobile apps delivering core financial capabilities like invoicing, payments, expense tracking, VAT handling, and reporting localized fully into Arabic. Integration with Excel enables data analysis.

The system sends automatic ZATCA VAT transaction data. Support assists configuration for Saudi accounting conventions and business license needs. eAccountingKSA offers an affordable pathway to modernizing SME bookkeeping and financials.

Walaa.Co Accounting

Walaa Cooperative Company provides accounting solutions specialized for Saudi-based businesses. WalaaAccounting handles core financial functions like invoicing, inventory, and reporting fully localized into Arabic with Saudi formats. Automated Zakat, VAT, and salary calculations aid regulatory compliance.

Electronic invoicing and ledger features reduce paper-based processes. Detailed business analytics help financial decisions. Walaa also provides consulting and accounting services. For turnkey localized accounting, Walaa delivers expertise and technology.

Sara Finance

Saudi-owned Sara Tech provides cloud accounting solutions designed for each unique enterprise. Localized Arabic software handles general ledger, accounts payable, receivable, inventory, payroll, and more. Sara’s accounting products integrate natively with its other HR, inventory, and procurement tools.

VAT-compliant workflows and reporting simplify compliance in the Kingdom. Sara also offers managed accounting services and consulting. For customized accounting technology and support for Saudi organizations, Sara delivers specialized expertise.

SADAD Electronic Invoicing

This initiative from the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority helps businesses comply with the Kingdom’s electronic invoicing framework. Supported by SADAD payment system, the cloud platform connects companies with buyers to exchange structured VAT-compliant e-invoices.

Integrations expedite invoice generation, confirmation, and accounting system entry. Electronic invoicing optimizes compliance, cash flow, and ditching paper. SADAD provides this e-invoicing utility free to Saudi businesses.

ERPNext

ERPNext provides a robust open-source ERP platform suitable for localized usage in Saudi Arabia. Arabic language support assists adoption by non-English speakers. Localization tools enable configuring features like payroll, taxation, and reporting to match Saudi conventions.

Add-on modules support e-invoicing, VAT handling, and Zakat declarations. ERPNext integrates with common Saudi payment gateways. Detailed analytics provide financial insights. For affordable tailored automation, ERPNext warrants exploration by Saud companies.

Oracle NetSuite

International ERP leader NetSuite supports localized deployments in Saudi Arabia through translation and integrations. NetSuite comes Arabic-enabled out of the box. Pre-built connectors integrate with local Saudi payment providers like SADAD and payment nets like Fawry.

VAT configuration supports Kingdom tax rates and filings. Global support assists localization. While pricier than competitors, NetSuite provides enterprise-grade globally-proven yet Saudi-compatible capabilities.

FAQs

Which is the best accounting software in Saudi Arabia? The choice of the best accounting software in Saudi Arabia can vary depending on specific business needs, but popular options include Tally ERP 9, QuickBooks, and Zoho Books.

What software will an accountant use the most? Accountants often use software like QuickBooks, Xero, Sage, or specialized accounting software provided by their firms for financial management and bookkeeping tasks.

Which software is used for accounting in Dubai? In Dubai, accounting software similar to that used in other parts of the world, such as QuickBooks, Xero, and Tally ERP 9, is commonly employed by businesses.

Which accounting software is mostly used in Kuwait? Kuwait, like many countries, uses a variety of accounting software. QuickBooks, Tally ERP 9, and Microsoft Dynamics are some commonly used options.

Which accounting software is used in Saudi? In Saudi Arabia, businesses often use accounting software like Tally ERP 9, QuickBooks, and Zoho Books.

Does Saudi Arabia use GAAP or IFRS? Saudi Arabia primarily follows International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for financial reporting and accounting standards, but some companies may use Saudi Arabian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (Saudi GAAP).

What software do Big 4 accounting firms use? The Big 4 accounting firms (Deloitte, PwC, Ernst & Young, and KPMG) typically use a combination of proprietary software and industry-standard tools for accounting, auditing, and financial analysis.

What software would a CPA need? Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) may use various software tools, including accounting software like QuickBooks or specialized audit software such as Caseware for their specific needs.

What are the 4 types of accounting systems? The four types of accounting systems are financial accounting, management accounting, governmental accounting, and tax accounting.

Does Dubai use IFRS or GAAP? Dubai, like the UAE in general, primarily follows International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for financial reporting and accounting standards.

Is GAAP used in UAE? Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) are not the primary accounting standards used in the UAE. Instead, International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) are more commonly adopted.

Which accounting software does Deloitte use? Deloitte, like other Big 4 firms, uses a combination of proprietary software and industry-standard tools for accounting, auditing, and financial analysis. They may also use software like SAP, Oracle, and Caseware.

What is the most used accounting software in France? In France, popular accounting software options include Sage, Cegid, and Quadra Compta.

What accounting software is used in Singapore? Singaporean businesses often use accounting software like QuickBooks, Xero, MYOB, and local options like Financio and Deskera.

Which country is the best for accounting? The “best” country for accounting can depend on various factors such as career opportunities, salary levels, and personal preferences. Countries with strong financial sectors like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland are often considered good for accounting careers.

Does Saudi Arabia use GAAP? As mentioned earlier, Saudi Arabia primarily follows International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), but some companies may use Saudi Arabian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (Saudi GAAP).

What apps are used in Saudi Arabia? Commonly used apps in Saudi Arabia include WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram, Uber, Careem (a ride-hailing service), and local banking apps.

Is WhatsApp monitored in Saudi? WhatsApp and other communication apps may be monitored by Saudi authorities to some extent, as part of their efforts to regulate online communication.

Is WhatsApp call banned in Saudi? WhatsApp calling was restricted in Saudi Arabia for a period, but the ban was lifted, and WhatsApp calling is now available in the country.

Is audit mandatory in Saudi Arabia? Yes, auditing is mandatory for companies in Saudi Arabia, and they are required to have their financial statements audited by a licensed auditor or audit firm.

Is Saudi Arabia GDPR compliant? Saudi Arabia has its own data protection regulation called the Saudi Arabian Data and Privacy Law (SDPL), which is similar to GDPR in some aspects but has differences. It is not considered GDPR compliant.

What apps are banned in KSA? The Saudi government has, at times, banned or temporarily restricted various apps and websites for reasons related to censorship and security. The list of banned apps may change over time, but it has included services like Skype and Telegram in the past.

Is WhatsApp monitored in Saudi? WhatsApp and other communication apps may be monitored by Saudi authorities to some extent, as part of their efforts to regulate online communication.

Is WhatsApp call banned in Saudi? WhatsApp calling was restricted in Saudi Arabia for a period, but the ban was lifted, and WhatsApp calling is now available in the country.

Conclusion

Achieving modern, efficient accounting and financials in Saudi Arabia requires technology localized specifically for the market. Solutions like QuickBooks Online, Toon Finance, and Zahara simplify bookkeeping while handling Saudi complexities like VAT. Larger companies can benefit from internationally-capable platforms like NetSuite. Any KSA business should adopt accounting software tailored for Kingdom accounting conventions and regulations.