Riyadh | January 17, 2026 — Saudi Arabia has announced the discovery of 7.8 million ounces (approximately 221,000 kilograms) of new gold resources across four mining sites, further expanding the country’s mineral reserves and reinforcing its ambitions to become a world-class gold producer.
The discovery was made by Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Ma’aden), the kingdom’s state-owned mining firm, following an extensive and targeted exploration campaign. According to the company, initial drilling identified more than 9 million ounces of gold, which was later adjusted to 7.8 million ounces in line with annual reporting standards.
The newly identified resources span four locations: Mansourah–Massarah, Uruk 20/21, Umm As Salam, and the newly discovered Wadi Al Jawwan. Among them, the Mansourah–Massarah project recorded the largest annual increase, adding 3 million ounces of gold in a single year. Uruk 20/21 and Umm As Salam together contributed 1.67 million ounces, while Wadi Al Jawwan accounted for 3.08 million ounces in its first-ever resource estimate.
Ma’aden Chief Executive Officer Bob Wilt said the findings validate the company’s long-term exploration strategy. “These results clearly demonstrate that our long-term strategy is delivering tangible outcomes,” he said, adding that Ma’aden will continue making significant investments to unlock Saudi Arabia’s gold potential.
Wilt noted that the expansion enhances the company’s project pipeline and strengthens future cash flow prospects. “Adding more than 7 million ounces of gold from four areas highlights the scale and potential of our gold portfolio,” he said.
As part of its 2026 exploration program, Ma’aden is prioritizing the Central Arabian Gold Region, where advanced drilling has revealed new mineral zones and possible mine expansions. Exploration around the historic Mahd gold mine has also indicated opportunities to extend the mine’s operational life.
Beyond gold, Ma’aden reported encouraging early results in copper and nickel exploration, particularly within the Arabian Shield region, signaling broader diversification into base metals. Findings from the Shaiban and Jabal Al Wakil areas further suggest the potential for a strong, multi-commodity mining portfolio across the kingdom.
At the flagship Mansourah–Massarah project, Ma’aden estimates 116 million tonnes of ore with an average grade of 2.8 grams of gold per tonne, totaling approximately 10.4 million ounces. Although gross additions reached 4.2 million ounces over the past year, net growth stood at 3 million ounces after adjustments.
The company confirmed that deeper mineral zones remain open at both Mansourah and Massarah, indicating strong prospects for future discoveries. Exploration activities are set to continue through 2026, with further updates expected in phases.
Saudi Arabia Discovers 221,000 Kilograms of New Gold Reserves
