Saudi Arabia has discovered a massive gold deposit stretching 100 kilometres in Al Khurma Governorate, Mecca.
The new site is located about 100 kilometres from the Mansurah Masara mine, one of the country’s most advanced mining projects. Early drilling in Uruk, south of Mecca, showed promising results with gold concentrations reaching 10.4 grams per tonne in one area and up to 20.6 grams per tonne in two other locations.
Following the discovery, Ma’aden, the state-backed mining company, is preparing to drill further across 25 kilometres extending to Jabal al-Gadara and Bir al-Tawila. Preliminary studies indicate that gold reserves could extend as far as 125 kilometres. Experts believe that with such reserves, Saudi Arabia could soon rank among the top gold-producing nations in the world.
The Mansurah Masara mine has already reported about 7 million ounces of gold in reserves, producing 250,000 ounces annually. The new discovery is expected to expand the country’s gold output and support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, which seeks to diversify the economy beyond oil. With the Public Investment Fund holding a majority stake in Ma’aden, the project is seen as vital both economically and strategically.
Officials say the discovery will not only strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position in the global mineral market but also create new opportunities for jobs, revenue, and international partnerships. As global demand for gold continues to rise, the country’s growing mining sector is expected to gain more influence on the world stage.