Qassim Region's Untapped Mineral Wealth Exceeds SAR 122 Billion In Line With Saudi Vision 2030

The Qassim Region holds mineral resources valued at SAR122.3 billion, which the Kingdom aims to utilise as part of Saudi Vision 2030. This initiative seeks to diversify the economy by making mining a key income source. The region is rich in high-quality ores, including gold, silver, copper, and lead, alongside tin, granite, tungsten, and molybdenum.

According to Jarrah Al-Jarrah from the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, Qassim's mineral wealth includes SAR87.7 billion in gold and SAR24.6 billion in bauxite. Additionally, it has SAR4.7 billion in zinc, SAR4 billion in copper, and SAR1.4 billion in silver. The region features several mineral belts for gold, copper, zinc, and lead.

Qassim's industrial sector is thriving with 580 factories operating across the region. Approximately 84% of these facilities are located in Buraidah, Unaizah, Al-Rass, and Al-Badai. Key industries include food products, beverages, basic products, pharmaceutical preparations, and rubber and plastic goods.

The industrial workforce in Qassim comprises 35,000 employees. Women make up over 15% of this workforce, reflecting efforts to empower women within the industrial sector. This aligns with broader national goals to increase female participation in various economic sectors.

Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef is visiting Qassim to inaugurate projects within industrial cities managed by the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON). He will also attend the Youth Industry Forum launch aimed at developing national talents through workshops and career guidance.

The minister will witness initiatives focused on enhancing human capacities in industry and mining. During his visit, he plans to meet with industrial investors while touring several factories to understand their operations better.

Qassim also boasts eight phosphate sites and a bauxite mining complex. There are 32 mining complexes dedicated to construction materials like gravel (17 sites), sand (nine sites), and aggregate materials (six sites). These resources contribute significantly to the region's economic potential.

With inputs from SPA