Saudi Arabia’s Maaden has added 7.8 million ounces of gold to its mineral resources, significantly strengthening its global position. As a result, the expansion supports the Kingdom’s fast-growing mining sector and Vision 2030 economic diversification goals.
The announcement came ahead of the International Mining Conference in Riyadh. Moreover, Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Alkhorayef, said Saudi Arabia now hosts one of the world’s fastest-growing mining industries.
Maaden’s resource increase stems from exploration across four strategic sites. These include Mansourah–Massarah, Umm al-Salam, Uruq 20/21, Wadi al-Jaw, and the historic Mahd Ad Dhahab mine. Additionally, the effort builds on discoveries at Wadi al-Jaw and Jabal Shayban last year.
Bob Wilt, Maaden’s CEO, said the results show the company’s long-term strategy is yielding strong outcomes. Furthermore, he added that investing in gold resources will increase cash flows and strengthen Maaden’s global financial standing. Wilt also highlighted early-stage discoveries of copper, nickel, and platinum, which are essential for advanced industries.
Updated figures at Mansourah–Massarah show 116 million tons of resources at an average grade of 2.8 grams per ton, equivalent to 10.4 million ounces. Additionally, expansion and conversion drilling added 4.2 million ounces, resulting in a net annual increase of 3 million ounces.
At Umm al-Salam and Uruq 20/21, resources reached 50.6 million tons at 2.1 grams per ton, adding 3.41 million ounces. These results directly support plans to expand the Mansourah–Massarah processing hub, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
Wadi al-Jaw’s initial estimate is 3.08 million ounces from 76.8 million tons. This was discovered after extensive drilling across 55 kilometers. Furthermore, exploration continues in surrounding areas, including Jabal Wa’lah.
In the Central Arabian Gold Region, a new discovery at Al-Rajum North and expanded mineralization at Mahd Ad Dhahab extend operational life. Consequently, Wilt stressed that Maaden’s portfolio—from early-stage prospects to active mines—shows substantial growth potential.
Analysts said Maaden’s success reinforces Saudi Arabia’s plan to make mining a third pillar of the economy. In addition, the new resources boost investor confidence, job creation, and industrial growth.
Looking forward, Maaden plans more exploration across the Arabian Shield. Moreover, investments in processing infrastructure aim to support production. Therefore, experts expect the company to maintain global leadership in gold mining as drilling and resource development progress.
