Saudi Arabia Extends Mining Exploration Licensing Submission Deadline to 2026

Extended Deadline for Mining Exploration Applications

In a significant move to bolster its mining sector, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources has announced an extension of the deadline for submitting prequalification applications for its latest mining exploration licensing round. The new deadline is now set for July 31, 2026, following requests from potential investors seeking more time to prepare their submissions.

The initial invitation for prequalification was issued on March 1, 2026, with a submission deadline of April 30, 2026. The licensing round encompasses eight exploration sites that collectively span over 1,878 square kilometers, located across the Riyadh, Hail, and Asir regions. These sites are rich in various mineral resources, including gold, silver, copper, and iron ore.

Details of the Exploration Sites

The proposed exploration sites offer a diverse range of mineral resources. Notable locations include Ashhab Al-Dhiab, which is estimated to contain between 9,100 and 140,000 ounces of gold, and Jabal Munayyah, known for its gold, tin, and tungsten mineralization. Additionally, Al-Khathni features quartz veins with high silver grades reaching up to 133 grams per tonne, along with lead and zinc.

Other significant sites include Wadi Khiyam, recognized for orogenic gold deposits, and Jabal Makhit, which has gold mineralization associated with quartz veins yielding up to 17 grams per tonne. Al-Khashimah is noted for its copper and zinc mineralization, while Dila Sammar Al-Har (Jabal Uqab) has gold resources ranging from 59,800 to 220,000 ounces. Lastly, Jabal Ismas is estimated to contain between 1.3 and 1.6 billion tonnes of iron ore at a grade of 65 percent.

Impact of the Accelerated Exploration Initiative

The exploration sites are part of the Accelerated Exploration Initiative, a collaborative effort between the Ministry and the Saudi Geological Survey. This initiative has led to extensive fieldwork, including the collection of 6,447 surface samples, 8,825 exploratory trench pits, and 26,229 borehole samples, along with 22,767 meters of drilling works. The comprehensive data gathered is expected to enhance the Kingdom’s mineral exploration capabilities.

The Ministry has made technical data and tender documents available through the Taadeen platform. Interested companies are required to register and complete the prequalification process to participate in the licensing round, which aims to attract both local and international investors.

Saudi Arabia’s Rising Mining Investment Attractiveness

Recently, Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in improving its global standing in mining investment. The Kingdom has climbed to 10th place in the Fraser Institute Mining Investment Attractiveness Index, a notable increase from its previous ranking of 23rd in 2024. This improvement reflects the government’s commitment to diversifying the economy and maximizing the potential of its mineral resources.

The total value of the Kingdom’s mineral resources is estimated at SAR 9.4 trillion, underscoring the strategic importance of the mining sector in Saudi Arabia’s economic vision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new deadline for mining exploration applications in Saudi Arabia?

The new deadline for submitting prequalification applications is July 31, 2026.

How many exploration sites are included in the licensing round?

The licensing round includes eight exploration sites across Riyadh, Hail, and Asir regions.

What types of minerals are being explored?

The exploration covers gold, silver, copper, and iron ore among other minerals.

What initiative is driving this mining exploration effort?

The exploration sites are part of the Accelerated Exploration Initiative in collaboration with the Saudi Geological Survey.

Where can companies find technical data and tender documents?

Technical data and tender documents are available through the Taadeen platform.