Saudi Arabia is experiencing a significant surge in mining exploration, with the number of active exploration companies jumping from 6 in 2019 to over 134, according to His Excellency Khalid Al-Mudaifer, Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs. He noted that nearly 60% of exploration licenses have been issued to startups, reflecting strong support for new entrants.
Speaking at the Egypt Mining Forum 2025, His Excellency Khalid Al-Mudaifer outlined the Kingdom’s strategy to create integrated regional ecosystems that connect the mining and industrial sectors. He emphasized the importance of cross-border economic opportunities, particularly between West Asia and East Africa, to enhance industry competitiveness.
Exploration spending in Saudi Arabia has tripled since 2020, reaching SAR228 per square kilometer in 2023, with an average annual growth rate of 32%, according to His Excellency Khalid Al-Mudaifer. He also highlighted the near completion—80%—of the world’s largest regional geological survey program.
His Excellency Khalid Al-Mudaifer called for the creation of collaborative platforms that bring together governments, investors, service providers, and innovators to advance the mining sector’s shared objectives.
