Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha)
Nazaha
Summary
The Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) was established by Royal Decree No. M/51 of 28 Sha'ban 1432H (31 July 2011) under the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Law, replacing the earlier General Investigation Directorate function. The Commission President is appointed by Royal Order and reports to the King. Nazaha investigates corruption, bribery, embezzlement, and abuse of authority by government officials; manages the public official financial disclosure system; and advises on anti-corruption policy. It has powers to compel testimony and access records from all government entities. Criminal matters are referred to the Bureau of Investigation and Public Prosecution (later: Public Prosecution). Nazaha coordinates Saudi Arabia's commitments under the UN Convention Against Corruption (ratified 2013) and publishes annual awareness reports. Investigations targeting senior officials have been handled through separate royal processes (notably the 2017 Ritz-Carlton detentions), highlighting limits of institutional independence.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Executive appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | Not specified |
| Removal standard | At will (weak protection) |
| Budget independence | Executive discretion |
| Subpoena power | Yes |
| Compel testimony | Yes |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | No |
| Pre-publication review | Executive review |
Statute
- Name
- Oversight and Anti-Corruption Law; Royal Decree No. M/51 of 1432H (2011)
- Citation
- Royal Decree No. M/51/1432H (31 July 2011)
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
All government agencies, officials, and employees; investigates corruption, bribery, misuse of public authority, and conflict of interest; manages asset declarations; coordinates Saudi Arabia's national anti-corruption strategy.