Saudi Arabia has announced the discovery of approximately 11 million tonnes of minerals in the Najran region. According to information from the mining company Almasane Alkobra Mining Company, the deposits discovered include gold, silver, copper and zinc.
The discovery came after a drilling programme that began in February 2025, during which more than 27,000 metres have already been drilled in the area.
The company indicated that the amount discovered represents less than 10% of the licensed area, suggesting that there may be even more minerals that can be extracted. The company plans to continue drilling and evaluation work to determine the total potential of the resources.
The Saudi Arabian government has emphasised that this discovery is part of efforts to diversify the economy beyond the oil sector, highlighting the importance of metals for technology industries, renewable energy and infrastructure.
The exploitation of these resources is expected to contribute to the economic development of the region and the country, as well as to the country’s integration into international metals markets, further increasing the country’s mineral wealth, estimated at $2.5 trillion. The impact on world prices will depend on the scale and pace of future production.
The Saudi authorities are continuing to assess the logistical, environmental and transport aspects related to the extraction of these minerals, as well as the measures necessary to ensure the sustainability of mining operations.
