Saudi Arabia has reported a remarkable 220 per cent surge in new mining licences issued in 2025, reflecting the Kingdom’s accelerating push to expand its non-oil economy. The sharp rise comes as more than $12 billion in investments are directed toward the development of gold, phosphate, and other strategic mineral resources.
Officials say the increase in licences signals growing investor confidence in Saudi Arabia’s mining sector, which has become a key pillar of the country’s economic diversification strategy under Vision 2030. The government has streamlined regulatory procedures, introduced competitive incentives, and expanded geological surveys to attract both local and international mining companies.
Gold remains a major focus, with exploration activities intensifying across several mineral-rich regions. Saudi Arabia is seeking to boost gold production capacity to strengthen exports and build downstream industries such as refining and jewelry manufacturing. At the same time, phosphate projects continue to receive significant funding, supporting the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global leader in fertilizer production and supply chains.
The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources has emphasized that mining is now considered the “third pillar” of Saudi Arabia’s industrial growth, alongside oil and petrochemicals. Investments in infrastructure, including rail networks and industrial cities, are further supporting the sector’s rapid expansion.
Analysts note that global demand for critical minerals, combined with rising gold prices and food security concerns, has created favorable conditions for large-scale mining development. The surge in licences suggests strong momentum as Saudi Arabia positions itself as a competitive global mining hub.
With billions in capital flowing into exploration and production projects, the Kingdom’s mining industry is expected to contribute significantly to GDP growth and job creation in the coming years.
