Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources granted 35 new mining licenses in September, according to the Saudi Press Agency. This included 24 exploration licenses, seven quarry licenses for building materials, three reconnaissance licenses, and one mining exploitation and small mine license.
By the end of September 2024, the total number of active licenses reached 2,295. The majority are quarry licenses for building materials, totaling 1,461, followed by 566 exploration licenses, 203 mining exploitation and small mine licenses, 42 prospecting licenses, and 23 surplus mineral resource licenses.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Jaraah bin Mohammed Al-Jaraah, highlighted the focus on enhancing the mining sector as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The aim is to make mining the third pillar of the national industry by utilizing the country’s extensive mineral resources, valued at around SR9.3 trillion.
