Saudi Arabia is accelerating its mineral exploration, and spending has surged far beyond the Vision 2030 goal. According to Abdullah Al-Shamrani, CEO of the Saudi Geological Survey, the Kingdom is now investing heavily in mining and exploration, signaling a strong push to become a global mining hub. Consequently, mineral exploration Saudi Arabia has become a national priority, and the government is taking active steps to ensure success.
Al-Shamrani explained that spending reached SR487 per square kilometer, which is more than double the original Vision 2030 target of SR200. Furthermore, he added that the mineral exploration Saudi Arabia index has grown 600 percent over the past several years. Both the government and private sector are working together to fund surveys and accelerate exploration programs in the Arabian Shield.
Previously, spending had already reached SR226 per square kilometer, surpassing the Vision goal early. Therefore, this rapid increase demonstrates the Kingdom’s serious commitment to mining. Moreover, Al-Shamrani emphasized that mineral exploration Saudi Arabia has produced tangible results, as the estimated value of discovered minerals now reaches $2.5 trillion.
To further boost investment, the Kingdom plans to release quarterly mineral data packages. These updates improve the national geological database and provide investors with the latest information. As a result, investors gain clarity and confidence, which encourages more participation. Additionally, this strategy lowers entry barriers and enables efficient planning across the sector.
Saudi Arabia has also climbed global geological rankings, moving from 108th place to 23rd. This improvement reflects unified regulations, better investment laws, and the proactive sharing of geological information. At the same time, the Kingdom is advancing in digital transformation. Survey teams have collected nearly 88,000 field samples across valleys in the Arabian Shield, while aerial surveys of the region are nearly complete and thoroughly analyzed.
The Arabian Shield covers roughly one-third of the Kingdom’s land and contains valuable minerals such as gold, copper, zinc, and iron. Therefore, the focus remains on accelerating exploration while ensuring accurate and detailed data. Furthermore, Al-Shamrani highlighted the importance of innovation to speed up discoveries and meet global demand for critical minerals. Amid worldwide decarbonization efforts, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a reliable supplier.
Speaking at the GEOMIN forum, Al-Shamrani connected Saudi Arabia’s national efforts to the global context. He stated that experts must innovate beyond traditional methods to secure essential resources. Consequently, mineral exploration Saudi Arabia continues to be central to both national strategy and global contribution.
In conclusion, the Kingdom combines government support, private investment, and advanced technology. Therefore, mineral exploration Saudi Arabia will continue to grow while supporting economic diversification. Meanwhile, investors benefit from pre-competitive data, clear regulations, and a stable environment for growth.
