What are Darkstone Arabia’s main business units?

Darkstone Arabia offers integrated mining services and industrial solutions throughout Saudi Arabia, with a primary focus on the gold, copper, phosphate, and cement sectors. Our comprehensive suite of services spans geological exploration, drilling operations, engineering, and processing, structured across four key divisions. Our Geological Services division handles exploration, RC and DD drilling, geotechnical monitoring, geological studies, and resource modeling. In Industrial Operations and Maintenance, specialized mechanical and electrical teams ensure optimal plant performance. Our Industrial Construction division oversees large-scale infrastructure projects across various industries, while the Solar Division concentrates on renewable energy solutions, particularly solar construction, to advance sustainable energy transitions.

What milestones did you achieve at Ma’aden’s Mansourah-Massarah gold mine TSF Project?

Our team accomplished a notable milestone at Ma’aden’s Mansourah-Massarah gold mine with the (TSF) project, valued at SAR 105 million. This expansive project, completed six months ahead of schedule, demonstrates our efficiency and commitment to client timelines. Partnering with engineering consultant ATC Williams, Darkstone oversaw procurement, construction, and implementation.

The TSF spans 2.5 million m2, making it the largest of its kind in Saudi Arabia. Managing earthworks, lining, mechanical, and air systems on such a scale required meticulous planning. Completing it within five months is a remarkable achievement and reflects our high standards for project execution. What upcoming projects are you pursuing with Ma’aden and other partners?

Currently, we are set to begin an EPC project at Al Jalamid phosphate mine for CV 13,16 upgrades. Additionally, we are preparing for the commissioning of the Sa’ad solar power station, a 330 MW project in Riyadh.

At Mansourah-Massarah, we are set to start the Stage Three ramp and distribution system upgrades in November 2024.

We are also collaborating with SRK Consulting on Ma’aden’s Phosphate 3 tender, which focuses on geological and technical services.

Other active projects include an EPC for the power connection at the Al-Zabira aluminum project, in additional to our daily geotechnical monitoring and hydrology data collection at Ma’aden’s gold mines.

At Yamama Cement, we are handling shutdown maintenance and mechanical repairs, as well as mill relining for MWSPC, ensuring uninterrupted plant maintenance and operations. What are the key benefits of integrating solar energy into mining operations?

Sustainability is a core principle at Darkstone. We recently secured a Solar construction contract for a 330 MW solar PV at Sa’ad near Riyadh. By integrating solar energy across our services, we aim to be an integral part of Saudi Arabia’s sustainable initiatives. What are some of Darkstone’s technology and new operations goals?

Our focus is on enhancing safety and efficiency through advanced monitoring technologies, including drone airborne surveys. Collaborating with innovative partners allows us to bring global expertise to the Saudi market, advancing the local mining sector.

We are also exploring further expansions in cement and mining, targeting prominent projects such as the Ar Rjum gold mine, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest gold reserves. Do you have a final message for international investors and companies regarding Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia offers one of the most dynamic and secure markets globally, presenting unprecedented opportunities for investment and collaboration. In line with Vision 2030, the government supports innovative approaches and advanced mining technologies. Events like the FMF foster collaboration between international firms and local contractors, strengthening the sector.

This is a prime time for businesses to engage and capitalize on Saudi Arabia’s thriving mining industry and establish a solid foothold in the region.