Saudi Arabia has recently made a significant mark in the mining sector by uncovering its most extensive mineralized zones to date. With an impressive span of 4,788 square kilometers, the kingdom has issued five new exploration licenses, signaling a robust push to elevate its mineral resource industry—a central pillar in its economic diversification plans.
A trio of these permits have been granted for exploration at the Jabal Sayid site in the Madinah region. Encompassing around 2,892 square kilometers, this area boasts a treasure trove of minerals such as gold, silver, copper, zinc, and lead. The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources has pointed out the substantial prospects these permits offer to both domestic and global companies looking to delve into mineral exploration and extraction in this lucrative locale.
The other two licenses are for the Al-Hajjar Site in the Asir region, which covers 1,896 square kilometers. Mirroring the mineral wealth of the Jabal Sayid site, Al-Hajjar also harbors gold, silver, copper, zinc, and lead deposits.
These initiatives are integral to Saudi Arabia’s wider scheme to amplify its mineral resources’ exploration and exploitation, which are valued at an astounding SR9.3 trillion (around USD2.4 trillion). These efforts are in harmony with the kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030, which aims to magnify mining’s contribution to the national economic expansion and industrial diversification. With a commitment to scaling up mineral exploration and development, Saudi Arabia is poised to solidify its stature in the global mining arena and support its economic goals for the future.
