SPA — Saudi Arabia’s mining sector has experienced a dramatic expansion, growing from just six exploration companies in 2019 to more than 132 in 2025. Speaking at the Egypt Mining Forum in Cairo, Vice Minister for Mining Affairs Eng. Khalid Al-Mudaifer said 70% of these firms are foreign-owned or joint ventures—a clear sign of confidence in the Kingdom’s mining reforms.

Notably, 60% of the companies are startups. Al-Mudaifer credited their interest to Saudi Arabia’s transparent regulations and targeted incentives. This growth follows major policy shifts under Vision 2030, which aim to establish the Kingdom as a global mineral exploration hub. He also highlighted the increasing participation of Egyptian service providers in Saudi projects, strengthening cross-border supply chain integration.

Building Regional Mining Ecosystems

During a panel on partnerships and emerging companies, Al-Mudaifer praised Egypt’s efforts to connect mining with downstream industries. He identified mineral-rich corridors stretching from East Africa to West Asia as high-potential zones for exploration, largely untapped regions.

He urged the creation of regional ecosystems to boost SME involvement, support job creation, and ensure sustainable development. According to Al-Mudaifer, forums such as Egypt Mining Forum and the Future Minerals Forum in Saudi Arabia are critical in forming alliances among investors, governments, and innovators.

Moreover, he concluded by announcing the fifth edition of the Future Minerals Forum, which will be held in Riyadh from January 13 to 15, 2026. The event will reinforce Saudi Arabia’s role in leading a more connected and investor-ready mining future.

 

THE SAUDI STANDARD’S VIEW: Mining Expansion Signals Saudi Arabia’s Global Ambition

The rise from six to 132 active exploration firms in six years underscores the depth of Saudi Arabia’s mineral strategy. With 70% of these firms involving foreign or joint-venture ownership, the trend confirms international trust and local readiness.

  • Investor confidence through reform: The large presence of global firms shows that Saudi Arabia has become a reliable and attractive destination for long-term mining investments.
  • Startups lead innovation: The 60% share of startup companies indicates a healthy, forward-looking sector driven by innovation and entrepreneurial activity, key for future exploration breakthroughs.
  • From national growth to regional leadership: Al-Mudaifer’s vision extends beyond Saudi borders. The Kingdom aims to lead cooperation and industrial growth across underexplored regions by supporting regional mining ecosystems.
  • Strategic convening through the Future Minerals Forum: The January 2026 forum in Riyadh will be a high-level platform to showcase regulatory progress, attract global capital, and deepen international collaboration.

In summary, Saudi Arabia is moving beyond domestic mineral development. It is becoming a convener of regional integration and a model for sustainable, investor-friendly mining. The momentum now points toward a broader transformation grounded in shared growth, strong governance, and long-term resilience.

 

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