Arab Saudi discovered approximately 110 juta ton of rare earth minerals and uranium ore in the Madinah region, according to an announcement made by Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman. The discovery was officially unveiled during the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference held in Vienna, Austria, as reported by Al Arabiya, Arab News, and Investigasiindonesia.com.
Jabal Sayid Exploration Data and Mineral Concentration
Exploration and geological studies at the Jabal Sayid project site in Madinah revealed an estimated resource of roughly 110 juta ton of high-concentration ore, according to statements made by Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman at the IAEA conference. Jabal Sayid sits roughly 350 kilometers northeast of Jeddah and is recognized for holding valuable rare earth metal reserves globally.
Data from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, citing figures from the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources alongside state mining company Maaden, breaks down the site’s contents. The location holds an estimated 552.000 ton of heavy rare earth metals like dysprosium and terbium, alongside 355.000 ton of light rare earth metals such as neodymium and praseodymium, according to the analysis. Furthermore, the analysis notes an estimated 31.000 ton concentration of uranium at the same site. The Saudi Geological Survey (SGS) also confirmed the massive deposit footprint across the Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah area.
Nuclear Cooperation and Global Supply Chains
The discovery arrives shortly after Saudi Arabia and the United States formalized a civil nuclear cooperation agreement. This framework grants US companies broader access to Saudi Arabia's developing civil nuclear program.
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Industry analysts cited by Investigasiindonesia.com note that the Madinah deposits could alter critical mineral supply chains heavily dominated by traditional producers like China. Prince Abdulaziz stated during the Vienna conference that diversifying energy and mineral resources remains crucial for reinforcing economic growth and supply security, positioning the Kingdom as an active energy market partner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly are the newly found mineral deposits located?
The 110 juta ton of rare earth minerals and uranium ore are concentrated in the Jabal Sayid geological project area, situated about 350 kilometers northeast of Jeddah in the Madinah province, according to Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman.
What specific types of minerals were discovered in Madinah?
How does the recent US-Saudi agreement relate to these mineral findings?
The discovery follows a civil nuclear cooperation agreement signed on July 22 by Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman and US Energy Minister Chris Wright.
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