Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, January 19, 2025 – The King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has significantly strengthened its global and local partnerships to foster innovation and further advance mining technologies during its participation at the Future Minerals Forum (FMF) 2025. Held in Riyadh and organized by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the FMF focused on addressing the current challenges faced by the mining and minerals sector while exploring promising opportunities both regionally and internationally. This year’s forum underscored the sector’s growing importance in the Kingdom’s economic diversification strategy under Vision 2030.
KACST, as a key player in driving technological innovation, has been at the forefront of efforts to integrate cutting-edge research and development into the mining sector. Dr. Saeed Al-Shehri, Vice President for Energy and Industry Sector at KACST, shared a statement with the Saudi Press Agency, highlighting the significant role the mining sector now plays in Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification. Al-Shehri noted that the Kingdom’s mineral reserves have grown substantially, reaching an estimated value of $2.5 trillion—an impressive 90% increase from the previously estimated $1.3 trillion. This dramatic rise in the value of the Kingdom’s mineral reserves is a testament to the untapped potential of the sector, which is set to become a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s long-term economic growth.
During the FMF, KACST solidified several key partnerships with both local and international organizations to drive forward innovation in the mining industry. The authority collaborated with the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program, the Saudi Geological Survey, and private sector entities such as the neoleap Company and the Saudi Mining Services Company (ESNAD). These collaborations have led to the establishment of a mining innovation studio aimed at attracting global talent and accelerating the development of advanced mining technologies. This initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s goal to position itself as a global hub for mining innovation and sustainability.
One of the focal points of KACST’s participation at the FMF was its collaboration with the Canadian Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation. Through this partnership, KACST is working to promote the application of emerging technologies in areas such as advanced metal processing, intelligent metal exploration, mining safety, and sustainability. By integrating such technologies into the mining sector, KACST aims to enhance operational efficiencies, minimize environmental impacts, and increase the safety of mining operations.
In addition to its collaborative efforts, KACST also played a leading role in overseeing the mining excellence zone at the FMF. This dedicated space showcased a variety of international companies and cutting-edge technologies that are transforming the global mining landscape. The zone highlighted some of the most innovative advancements in mining technology, from automation and artificial intelligence to new methods of resource extraction and environmental management.
KACST’s participation in the FMF reflects its ongoing commitment to advancing the Kingdom’s mining sector and supporting Vision 2030’s goal of transforming Saudi Arabia into a global leader in the mining industry. As the Kingdom continues to develop its vast mineral resources, the role of KACST in driving technological innovation will be crucial in shaping a sustainable and prosperous future for the sector. By fostering partnerships with global industry leaders and investing in the latest mining technologies, KACST is playing a pivotal role in positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of the global mining revolution.
As the Kingdom continues to build its mining infrastructure, KACST’s involvement in such forums serves as a critical platform for sharing knowledge, forging new collaborations, and ensuring that Saudi Arabia remains at the cutting edge of mining innovation on the world stage. With the vast potential of its mineral reserves and a robust strategy for technological advancement, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a key player in the global mining industry, with KACST leading the way.
