Saudi Arabia has a diverse mining sector, primarily focused on phosphate, gold, bauxite (aluminum ore), copper, zinc, and industrial minerals like limestone and silica sand. The country is also exploring rare earth elements and other strategic minerals as part of its Vision 2030 economic diversification plan.
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Key Mines & Mining Projects in Saudi Arabia:
1. Ma’aden (Saudi Arabian Mining Company) – The national mining leader operates several major projects:
– Al Jalamid Phosphate Mine – One of the world’s largest phosphate producers.
– Al Ba’itha Bauxite Mine – Supplies bauxite to the Ma’aden Aluminum complex.
– Ad Duwayhi Gold Mine – A major gold producer.
– Mansourah-Massarah Gold Project – Expected to boost gold output significantly.
– Mahd Ad Dahab Gold Mine – One of the oldest mines in Saudi Arabia.
2. Wa’ad Al-Shamal (Phosphate City) – A massive phosphate mining and processing hub in the Northern Borders Province.
3. As Suq Gold Mine & Bulghah Gold Mine – Operated by Ma’aden.
4. Jabal Sayid Copper Mine – A joint venture with Barrick Gold, producing copper.
5. Khnaiguiyah Zinc-Copper Project – Under development for zinc and copper extraction.
6. Rare Earth Elements (REE) Exploration – Saudi Arabia is exploring deposits in the northwest as part of efforts to secure critical minerals.
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Government Initiatives:
– The Saudi government is promoting private investment in mining through the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP).
– A new Mining Investment Law (2021) aims to attract foreign investors with streamlined licensing and incentives.
– The country has vast untapped mineral resources, estimated at over $1.3 trillion, including gold, uranium, and phosphates.
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