The Saudi Geological Survey celebrated its 25th anniversary in October 2024. What is its mission?

The Saudi Geological Survey (SGS) was established in 1999 with the primary role in discovering natural resources other than natural gas and oil, like minerals, water and renewable energy. SGS is also in charge of monitoring geohazards, including earthquakes, volcanoes, flooding and all other geological risks. Lastly, we are tasked with monitoring the hydrogeology and chemistry of the Zamzam Well in the Holy City of Makkah, to ensure a sustainable supply of its water at standard levels.

Our journey begins by acquiring all available ground data on minerals to be investigated and processed. This data is important for mining companies. Following this, the government steps in to issue licenses, permitting companies to legally proceed with minerals exploration and extracting processes. At the outset of the mineral manufacturing process, SGS plays a key role. We identify and assess different types of minerals and their potential applications. Such valuable data is then shared with mining companies. Our work is integral to the efficient, sustainable, and responsible management of mineral resources. How much of the Arabian Shield has the SGS surveyed so far?

The Arabian Shield has been the focal area of mineral surveying and exploration since the beginning of the mining industry in Saudi Arabia at the beginning of the 20th century. The Arabian Shield covers an area of approximately 630,000 km, and we have successfully mapped about 85% of the Shield through our recent geological initiatives and acceleration programs. We operate a fleet of 10 airplanes specialized in airborne geophysical surveys, data of which will be integrated with over 85,000 collected stream sediment samples to evaluate mineral resources within the Arabian Shield. The Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources has announced that the estimated value of these resources in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is US$2.5 trillion. What are the next steps once you have collected the data?

The next step is to analyze and integrate it into our National Geological Database (NGD). Currently, 60% of the total surveyed area of the Arabian Shield has been uploaded to this platform.

The National Geological Database is a platform that gathers and connects all geological information, making it accessible worldwide. What sets this platform apart is its investor-friendly approach and the fact that it is unlimited download and free of charge. Over the past three years, it has attracted more than 90,000 visitors, and our geological database is now ranked third in the world. What can you tell us about the Accelerated Exploration Program?

The Accelerated Exploration Program is a forecast initiative designed to provide investors with detailed and reliable information. This program involves working with MSA Arabia, Golden Compass and other international companies and their technical partners. Through drilling, mapping, and sampling specific areas, we refine the data to achieve a 90% accuracy level, delivering high-quality information to investors. Those investors then participate in a transparent auction process to obtain an exploration license. The winner of the auction can immediately begin exploration and, eventually, move on to extraction. This accelerates the transformation of the site into a functioning mine.

The Accelerated Exploration Program is part of a long-term tender covering geophysics, geochemistry, and geological mapping. The process begins with geochemical and geophysical analyses, with geological mapping serving as the final phase. What are SGS specific goals for the next couple of months in 2025?

We will continue to finalize our initiatives in the Arabian Shield while expanding our focus and interest to the Arabian Platform and the coastal zones of the Red Sea. This next phase involves conducting regional surveys to deepen our understanding of key strategic areas. Our priority is to collect detailed data to identify deposits of strategic minerals, critical minerals and rare earth materials essential for modern applications. These efforts are closely aligned with the global energy transition, which has made these resources increasingly significant. What final message do you have for investors interested in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s mining industry?

SGS, working alongside the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, is fully committed to identifying and quantifying critical minerals. For international investors, you can trust that SGS will collaborate closely with you to ensure your success at every step of your trustworthy investment and exploration endeavors.