Saudi Arabia has called on investors to seize the opportunity presented by its significant mineral wealth in the southwestern region, following geological surveys that have uncovered new deposits in substantial quantities. The authorities have revised the untapped mineral wealth of the Najran province upward by approximately 56 percent.

According to Abdullah Al-Ahmari, an assistant to the Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Wealth, the unexploited mineral wealth in Najran has been adjusted to SAR227 billion (approximately $60 billion), up from a previous estimate of SAR145 billion ($39 billion). Al-Ahmari shared this information at an investment forum in Najran city, highlighting the implications of the updated figures.

He attributed the sharp increase in the mineral wealth estimate to advancements in the kingdom’s geological survey program, which has been ongoing for several years. This initiative aims to enhance mineral reserves and attract potential investors to the sector.

Al-Ahmari noted that the minerals found beneath Najran’s soil include gold, silver, copper, zinc, sulfur, granite, iron ore, and various other metals. He emphasized that “Najran is a promising land of investment opportunities in all mining activities,” citing its competitive advantages such as abundant natural resources, a strategic location on the kingdom’s southern border, proximity to Jazan Port on the Red Sea, and rapidly developing infrastructure.

Since the implementation of a landmark mining investment law in 2019, Saudi Arabia has granted over 2,400 licenses for mineral exploration and development as part of its Vision 2030 economic transformation plan. In 2022, the country announced a revision of its estimated mineral wealth from SAR5 trillion ($1.33 trillion) to nearly SAR9.3 trillion ($2.5 trillion), following new discoveries across various regions.

Additionally, in early 2025, the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources reported that it had completed approximately 90 percent of a survey covering a targeted area of around 400,000 square kilometers.