RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has allocated five sites for establishing mining complexes in the Makkah and Asir regions as part of its strategy to attract quality investments, enhance transparency, and support local communities.
The initiative, led by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, aims to position mining as a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s industrial base.
The designated sites include four in Taif Governorate — North Nimran Mining Complex No. 1, covering 3.47 sq. km, North Nimran Mining Complex No. 2, covering 2.77 sq. km, South Nimran Mining Complex, covering 5.12 sq. km, and East Nimran Mining Complex, covering 15.76 sq. km.
Additionally, South Wadi Ya’ra Mining Complex in Khamis Mushait Governorate spans 15.08 sq. km.
This allocation is part of the Kingdom’s efforts to establish mining as the third pillar of its industrial economy, alongside oil and petrochemicals, the Ministry said in a post on X.
This initiative seeks to capitalize on the Kingdom’s mineral wealth, valued at approximately SR9.4 trillion ($2.5 trillion) and distributed across more than 5,300 identified sites. By safeguarding resources and ensuring regulatory compliance, the ministry aims to foster sustainable investment and deter unauthorized mining activities.
In November 2024, Saudi Arabia awarded 11 exploration licenses for six sites spanning a total of 850 sq. km across Riyadh, Makkah, and Asir. These permits, issued under the Accelerated Exploration Program, are part of a competitive initiative to unlock underutilized resources and attract domestic and international investors.
Earlier this week, the ministry launched the Innovative Industrial and Mining Products Program, described as a significant step toward enhancing development and supporting the digital transformation of these sectors.
The program “represents a key step toward fostering innovation in the industrial and mining sectors,” the ministry said on X, adding that it reflects its commitment to “developing innovative solutions that support the Kingdom’s industrial transformation and stimulate the growth and sustainability of the mining sector.”
Saudi Arabia’s measures highlight its ambition to diversify the economy, leverage untapped resources, and solidify its position as a global leader in mining and industrial development.
