Saudi Arabia took part in the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) convention held from March 1 to 4, 2026, highlighting the Kingdom’s growing exploration and mining opportunities supported by extensive geological data and a modern regulatory framework.
On the sidelines of the event, Deputy Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mineral Resources Management Abdulrahman Al-Belushi delivered keynote remarks during the Saudi Showcase session titled “KSA: The Future Hub for Global Mineral Processing.” In his address, he emphasized the Kingdom’s transformation from an emerging mining jurisdiction into a leading global destination for mining investment.
Al-Belushi underscored that Saudi Arabia’s estimated $2.5 trillion in mineral resources, combined with a transparent licensing system, a modern regulatory framework, and a large-scale geological mapping program covering 700,000 square kilometers of the Arabian Shield, provides a strong foundation for international investors seeking long-term opportunities in the mining sector. He also highlighted the Kingdom’s integrated mine-to-market infrastructure, designed to support the full mining value chain.
IMMS
During his participation in the International Mines Ministers Summit (IMMS), Al-Belushi stressed the importance of international collaboration to meet the growing global demand for minerals. He also shared insights on the Future Minerals Forum’s Ministerial Roundtable Initiative, which aims to promote economic development, responsible mineral supply, and capacity building across the global mining sector.
Al-Belushi noted that more than 46,000 square kilometers of exploration areas have been offered to investors, while the Kingdom continues to address financing challenges through a range of competitive incentives. These include the Exploration Enablement Program, designed to support early-stage mining investments.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts to develop national talent, including the launch of the Saudi School of Mines during the fifth Future Minerals Forum in January. In addition, more than 80 years of geological data are now digitally accessible to investors through the National Geological Database (NGD).
PDAC
Throughout PDAC 2026, the Saudi delegation held a series of bilateral meetings with international mining executives, investors, and institutional partners to strengthen cooperation in exploration, mining services, mineral processing, and downstream industries.
By combining regulatory reform, comprehensive geological data, financial risk-sharing mechanisms, and integrated infrastructure, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a strategic partner in strengthening global mineral supply chains.
The Kingdom’s participation in PDAC reflects the rapid progress of its mining sector, which has evolved from an emerging market into a competitive global destination. Through its modern regulatory environment, extensive geological resources, and attractive investment incentives, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position as a trusted partner for mining investment and a contributor to resilient and sustainable mineral supply chains.
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