Saudi AI Advances Boost Mineral Exploration

Saudi Arabia is making notable progress in using artificial intelligence to improve mineral exploration, with new research tools and a dedicated data-analytics center now supporting the country's growing mining sector.

Researchers at KAUST have developed an AI computational prototype designed to reduce uncertainty in mineral exploration beneath the Arabian Shield, the mineral-rich geological region that spans much of western Saudi Arabia. The project is led by George Turkiyyah and David Keyes, working alongside geophysical-imaging experts from the University of British Columbia.

To move the technology from the lab toward practical use, Ma'aden has signed a 30-month research-and-development contract to test and deploy the solution using actual Saudi geological data. The collaboration aims to validate the prototype under real field conditions and refine how exploration targets are identified.

In a parallel step, the Saudi Geological Survey has established the Artificial Intelligence–Geological Data Analytics Center (AIGDAC) under the General Geological Survey Program. The center uses AI and big-data analysis to pinpoint high-potential mineral targets, strengthen the analysis of geological data, and accelerate the exploration of raw minerals.

Why it matters

Mining is a key pillar of the Kingdom's economic diversification plans, and faster, more accurate exploration can help unlock new resources while lowering costs and risks. For residents and professionals in the sector, these developments point to expanding opportunities in technology, geosciences, and data analysis across Saudi Arabia's mineral industry.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving