The Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources has announced the opening of registration for pre-qualification for mining exploration licenses, significantly enhancing the Kingdom's position as a leader in the mining sector. This initiative, disclosed on March 12, 2025, is aimed at local and international exploration companies, covering three designated zones across the Riyadh and Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah regions, which collectively span over 24,946 square kilometers.
The move is part of the ministry’s ambitious plan to boost the number of exploration licenses, with over 50,000 square kilometers set to be made available within the year 2025. During the recent International Mining Conference held in January, officials emphasized the importance of this initiative, underlining its potential impact on accelerating exploration efforts and developing mining resources, which are valued at approximately 9.3 trillion Saudi riyals.
The zones earmarked for this competition include the Nuqrah and Suhaybirah reserves located in the Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah region and the Duwayhi Nuqayta reserve situated within Riyadh. These areas are rich with various valuable minerals, including gold, copper, nickel, and zinc. "The ministry aims to maximize the use of mineral resources, which are estimated at 9.3 trillion Saudi riyals," stated the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
To successfully secure licenses, companies must navigate through pre-qualification criteria, which include demonstrating technical competence, financial capacities, and maintaining compliance without any previous violations. The ministry has ensured it provides all necessary geological and technical data via their 'Tadin' platform to facilitate transparency and equal opportunities among all competitors.
Key dates have been set for the various phases throughout 2025. Registration and the launch of the data room began on January 14, leading to the official opening of the competition on May 1. Companies can submit electronic offers starting June 1, with the submission period concluding on August 15, 2025. The ministry plans to announce the winners on August 30.
This initiative is also part of broader efforts to stimulate growth and clarify opportunities in the mining sector, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives. The creation of new jobs, strengthening the economic fabric through sustainable practices, and the enhancement of added value to these resources are also anticipated outcomes. Officials have committed to creating "transparent and attractive investment opportunities" as they expand the mining sector's footprint.
Through the recent launch of the second phase of the Mining Exploration Empowerment program, businesses holding active exploration licenses for less than five years can receive support of up to 7.5 million Saudi riyals for their projects. This move demonstrates the ministry's commitment to not only increasing mining activity but also encouraging infrastructural development around these resources.
Reflecting on previous successes, the ministry has made significant strides, having offered over 10,000 square kilometers of mining exploration licenses. The upcoming availability of 50,000 square kilometers is seen as solid evidence of Saudi Arabia's dedication to enhancing investment environments conducive to growth.
By unlocking these multiple zones and promoting exploration through streamlined regulatory processes, Saudi Arabia aims to position itself as a central player within the global mining industry. With considerable reserves and a forward-thinking strategy, the Kingdom is set to welcome increased investments and operational capacities from both domestic and international companies.
Overall, the ministry's proactive approach is likely to yield substantial benefits, not just for the mining sector, but for the nation’s economy at large, enhancing the comprehensive growth envisioned for the Kingdom's future.