Mining License in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is rapidly becoming one of the most attractive mining and mineral exploration markets. Under Vision 2030, the Kingdom is opening new doors for investment in natural resources. To operate legally in this space, you must obtain a mining license in Saudi Arabia issued by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources.
At Gulf Corporate Services, we help local and international companies apply for a mining license in Saudi Arabia with confidence, ensuring every step is handled professionally and without delays.
Understanding the Saudi Arabia Mining License
A Saudi Arabia mining license is a legal requirement for businesses looking to explore, extract, and process mineral resources. This includes metals like gold, copper, and bauxite, as well as non-metallic materials such as limestone and gypsum.
Who Needs a Mining License?
- Mining and mineral exploration companies
- Quarry and aggregate businesses
- Contractors in the construction and infrastructure sectors
- International firms entering the mining sector in Saudi Arabia
- Investors in large-scale extraction or processing plants
This license ensures full compliance with the Kingdom’s environmental and legal regulations.
Types of Mining Licenses in Saudi Arabia
The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources offers different licenses based on your business scope and stage of operation.
1. Reconnaissance License
Ideal for early-stage survey and geological research.
2. Mineral Exploration License
Grants permission to explore specific areas for mineral deposits.
3. Exploitation (Mining) License
Allows full extraction and commercial use of discovered minerals.
4. Building Materials Quarry License
Used for mining building-grade materials like sand, stone, and gravel.
Whether you’re interested in mineral exploration or commercial mining in Saudi Arabia, we help you select the right license for your business.
Documents Required to Apply for a Mining License in Saudi Arabia
To successfully apply for a mining license in Saudi Arabia, you’ll need:
- Valid Commercial Registration (CR)
- Passport and ID copies of shareholders or investors
- Geological survey or feasibility study (for exploration licenses)
- Business plan outlining the scope of work
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
- Proof of financial capability and source of funds
- Land ownership or lease agreement for the mining area
Our team ensures that all documents are accurate and compliant with Saudi regulations before submission.
How to Get a Mining License in Saudi Arabia – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Initial Consultation & License Selection
We assess your project and recommend the best type of mining permit in Saudi Arabia.
Step 2: Company Setup & Name Reservation
We help establish your business entity and register your trade name under the Saudi Ministry of Commerce.
Step 3: File Your Application
All documents are compiled and submitted to the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources for review.
Step 4: Site Review or Government Evaluation
Some license types may require site inspections or technical validation.
Step 5: Approval and License Issuance
After all checks are completed, your mining license in Saudi Arabia will be issued—allowing you to operate legally and begin your activities.
Cost of Mining License in Saudi Arabia
The cost of a mining license in Saudi Arabia depends on several factors:
- Type of license (exploration vs. exploitation)
- Size and location of the mining site
- Type of minerals involved
- Environmental assessments and security bonds (if required)
- Licensing and government processing fees
At Gulf Corporate Services, we provide a detailed cost breakdown based on your project and license type—so you can plan your budget without surprises.
Benefits of Getting a Mining License in Saudi Arabia
- Full legal access to one of the Middle East’s richest mineral markets
- Eligibility for Saudi mining incentives and investment programs
- Ability to trade or export mined materials legally
- Strong local infrastructure supporting the mining supply chain
- Access to joint venture opportunities and foreign investment protections
As the mining industry in Saudi Arabia grows, now is the ideal time to enter this high-potential market with the right license and strategy.
Why Choose Gulf Corporate Services?
With over 14 years of experience in business setup and government licensing, we make the Saudi Arabia mining license process simple and worry-free.
- Fast turnaround and expert guidance
- End-to-end support with application, documentation, and approvals
- Transparent pricing and clear communication
- Ongoing support after license issuance
We focus on compliance, so you can focus on growth.
Types of Mining Licenses in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers two main types of mining licenses, depending on the stage of your mining project: Exploration License and Exploitation License.
Exploration License
An exploration license in Saudi Arabia allows companies to conduct early-stage surveys and geological assessments to identify areas rich in mineral resources. Activities typically include geological mapping, sampling, fieldwork, and test drilling during this phase.
This license is valid for a limited period. It is intended to evaluate mineral deposits’ presence, quality, and quantity. If results show that a site is commercially viable, companies can move on to apply for an exploitation license.
Exploitation License
Once mineral resources are confirmed, an exploitation license gives the company the right to start full-scale mining operations. This stage involves setting up mining infrastructure, including extraction facilities, mineral processing plants, and transport systems.
Strict operational and environmental regulations apply at this stage. License holders must follow clear reporting guidelines and implement ecological monitoring programs to prevent damage to surrounding land and communities.
Mining Sector Growth and Investment in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi government is actively investing in the mining sector, aligning with Vision 2030 to diversify the economy and attract private-sector involvement. This initiative is transforming mining into one of the Kingdom’s most promising industries.
At Gulf Corporate Services (GCS), we see great value in Saudi Arabia’s mining sector—not just in terms of resources, but also in the role it plays in national economic growth. We’re proud to support investors looking to enter this space through both government-backed programs and private ventures.
Abundant Mineral Resources
Saudi Arabia is rich in mineral deposits, including gold, copper, zinc, phosphate, bauxite, and iron ore. These resources offer strong potential for long-term returns, especially in regions outside major cities. With our team’s deep understanding of mining and local development goals, we help investors tap into these opportunities.
Government Support for Mining
The government, through agencies like Ma’aden, is committed to growing the mining sector’s contribution to GDP from 1% to 10% by 2030. This vision is backed by supportive policies, improved regulations, and major infrastructure investments. At GCS, we align our services with this national goal to ensure sustainable, impactful investment in mining.
Sector Investment and Opportunities
Between 2011 and 2020, over $22.5 billion was invested into Saudi Arabia’s mining industry. This includes new project development, expansion of existing mines, and upgrades in mining infrastructure and technology. The sector is ready for growth, and we’re here to help businesses enter it the right way.
Mining Licensing Requirements In Saudi Arabia
Required Documents
- Please provide a certified copy of the commercial registration for the shareholding partner, stamped by the Saudi Embassy. If any partner is a GCC national and their details are not registered in the ABSHAR system, kindly include a copy of their national ID.
- Also, submit the latest audited financial statements from the foreign company’s most recent financial year, duly certified by the Saudi Embassy.
Rules and Restrictions
Ensure the Saudi shareholder’s ownership percentage matches the capital share per your business activity’s financial requirements.
- If a partner holds a Premium Residency, they’re not required to submit these documents.
- If the Ministry of Investment has previously licensed any partner, mention it when entering partner details in the online application.
Also, include the relevant partner information—Saudi national ID, Premium Residency ID, or commercial registration details—based on their status when submitting the electronic application.