Unearthing a Treasure Trove: 27,000-Meter Deep Drill Reveals 11 Million Ton Gold and Copper Reserve

Saudi Arabia, the nation holding the world’s second-largest oil reserves at approximately 267 billion barrels, has made a significant mineral discovery in the Najran region of its southern territory. The latest announcement reveals an estimated 11 million tons of mineral resources containing gold, copper, zinc, and silver, opening new avenues for the mining sector and the kingdom’s economic diversification strategy.

This discovery was made by Almasane Alkobra Mining Company (AMAK) as part of an exploration program initiated in February 2025. According to AMAK, over 27,000 meters of drilling have been conducted in the licensed area, though only about 10% of the exploration zone has been surveyed. This suggests the actual reserves could significantly exceed initial estimates.

Preliminary analysis indicates that the Najran region contains substantial concentrations of precious and industrial metals, including gold, copper, zinc, and silver. Beyond its resource value, the deposit benefits from a strategic logistical position, located approximately 100 km from AMAK’s existing mining facilities, facilitating future infrastructure development and production connectivity.

AMAK plans to expand exploration efforts in the coming phase to enhance the accuracy of reserve estimates. Specifically, the company aims to conduct additional drilling campaigns and geophysical studies in 2026. Furthermore, the first comprehensive mineral resource report for the Najran area is scheduled for release in the second half of this year, providing a more robust dataset for investment and development decisions.

This mineral discovery aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 strategy, which seeks to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil. In recent years, the mining sector has been identified as a key growth pillar, alongside renewable energy, manufacturing, and high-tech industries.

The substantial metal reserves found in Najran not only expand the kingdom’s resource portfolio but also position Saudi Arabia to play a more prominent role in the global metal supply chain, particularly for metals critical to industry, energy, and technology.

Observers note that, if effectively developed, the Najran mineral deposit could emerge as a significant driver of Saudi Arabia’s economic growth in the coming decade. It also underscores the oil-rich nation’s commitment to transforming its development model amidst a rapidly evolving global economic landscape.