Saudi Arabia advances Vision 2030 as mining licenses and chemical permits surge, unlocking trillions in mineral potential.
Record Chemical Permits Approved
In late 2025, Saudi Arabia approved over 1,000 chemical permits, marking a major milestone in its industrial development. The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources processed 1,095 chemical clearance requests in November alone. These approvals covered more than 2,000 product classifications, supporting manufacturing and production across the Kingdom.
Streamlined Clearance System Boosts Efficiency
Saudi Arabia’s digital chemical clearance platform enables investors to import and export essential materials with ease. By reducing processing times and simplifying procedures, the system improves supply chain efficiency and ensures compliance at ports of entry.
Exploration Licenses Awarded for 172 Mining Sites
The Kingdom granted 172 exploration licenses across mineral-rich zones in Riyadh, Madinah, and Qassim. Twenty-four local and international companies secured these rights through a competitive bidding process. Collectively, they committed over SR671 million in exploration spending during the first two years.
Strategic Minerals Drive Global Relevance
The licensed sites span approximately 24,000 square kilometers and contain key minerals, including gold, copper, silver, zinc, and nickel. These resources play a vital role in global supply chains and energy transition technologies. Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a future supplier of strategic minerals.
Transparent Tendering Process Builds Investor Confidence
The ministry conducted the largest mining licensing round in Saudi history. By using an electronic auction platform it ensured fair competition and attracted experienced operators. This approach reflects growing trust in the Kingdom’s regulatory framework and long-term resource strategy.
Future Tenders Expand Mining Opportunities
Saudi Arabia plans to launch additional tenders across Madinah, Makkah, Riyadh, Qassim, and Hail, covering another 13,000 square kilometers. The government will announce further opportunities at the upcoming Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh.
Mining Strategy Supports Economic Diversification
The national mining strategy aims to unlock resources valued at over SR9.4 trillion. By attracting foreign investment, creating skilled jobs, and building integrated value chains, Saudi Arabia is transforming mining into a core pillar of its diversified economy.
Vision 2030 Positions Mining as a Cornerstone
As Vision 2030 progresses, mining remains a key priority. The Kingdom is building a resilient, future-ready industrial economy, with mining at the center of its long-term growth and sustainability goals.
