The Qassim Region is rich in untapped mineral resources valued at SAR122.3 billion, constituting significant natural wealth that the Kingdom seeks to exploit in line with the Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the national economy by making mining a substantial source of income.
According to Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources Spokesperson Jarrah Al-Jarrah, Qassim is abundant in high-quality mineral ores, including precious metals like gold, silver, copper, and lead, as well as tin, granite, tungsten, and molybdenum. The region’s estimated mineral wealth includes SAR87.7 billion in gold, SAR24.6 billion in bauxite, SAR4.7 billion in zinc, SAR4 billion in copper, and SAR1.4 billion in silver.
He said that Qassim boasts several mineral belts for gold, copper, zinc, and lead, as well as eight phosphate sites and a bauxite mining complex. He noted that the region features 32 mining complexes dedicated to construction materials, including 17 for gravel, nine for sand, and six for aggregate materials.
The ministry spokesperson added that the industrial sector in Qassim is thriving, with 580 factories operating across the region. Approximately 84% of these facilities are concentrated in Buraidah, Unaizah, Al-Rass, and Al-Badai. Key industrial sectors include food products, beverages, basic products, pharmaceutical preparations, and rubber and plastic products.
Al-Jarrah also said that the industrial workforce in Qassim comprises 35,000 employees, with women making up over 15%, reflecting the Kingdom’s efforts to empower women in the industrial sector.
Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef is currently visiting the region to inaugurate several projects in the industrial cities affiliated with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON). He is also due to attend the launch of the Youth Industry Forum in Qassim, which aims to qualify national talents in the industrial sector through workshops and career guidance sessions.
The minister will witness the launch of initiatives to develop human capacities in industry and mining and visit several factories to meet with industrial investors.
Source: spa.gov.sa