The numbers speak
for themselves

Saudi Arabia has created one of the world's most competitive mining investment environments. Here's what that means for Australian companies.

20%
Mining Tax Rate

Down from 45%. Among the lowest globally.

$2.5T
Mineral Wealth

Estimated untapped resources. Mostly unexplored.

100%
Foreign Ownership

No forced partnerships. Full control.

What this means for you

Saudi Arabia has removed the traditional barriers that make mining investment difficult. Here is what actually changed.

Better economics than most jurisdictions

20% mining tax (down from 45%), zero income tax for foreign investors, and a $182M exploration fund covering 25-75% of your costs. The fiscal terms are designed to compete globally.

Compare: Australia 30% corporate tax, Canada varies by province, Chile 40%+ effective rate

No forced partnerships or local ownership

100% foreign ownership permitted. No requirement to partner with local entities unless you choose to. Your capital structure stays under your control.

Reality check: Many mining jurisdictions require 20-51% local ownership

Faster approvals, less bureaucracy

Digital licensing platform reduced application times from months to weeks. The government wants projects moving, not stuck in regulatory review.

Practical impact: Get to drilling faster, lower holding costs during permitting

Greenfield territory with real potential

600,000 km² surveyed with modern geophysical data. 50,000 km² of high-potential areas released for exploration. This isn't brownfield—it's genuine discovery opportunity.

Geology: Arabian Shield hosts copper, zinc, gold, lithium, rare earths, phosphate

Government backing, not just talk

Vision 2030 has $500B+ infrastructure commitment. Mining is a strategic priority, not an afterthought. When you need roads, ports, or power—they're building them.

Track record: Barrick, Vedanta, Ivanhoe, Zijin already operating

Market access to 2 billion consumers

Strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa. World-class ports on Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. If you're producing, you can ship anywhere efficiently.

Logistics: 8-hour flight radius covers Middle East, Africa, South Asia

A place your people will want to work

Mining projects succeed when you can attract and retain talent. Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in creating world-class living conditions for international professionals and their families.

World-Class Education

International schools offering British, American, and IB curricula in major cities. Your children receive the same quality education they would back home.

Premium Healthcare

World-class medical facilities with English-speaking staff. Comprehensive health coverage typically included in expat packages.

Modern Living

Western-style housing compounds with pools, gyms, and community facilities. Shopping, dining, and entertainment comparable to major international cities.

Competitive Expat Packages

0%
Personal income tax
Maximum take-home pay
100%
Benefits covered
Housing, education, healthcare
Annual leave with flights home for families
Strong expat communities across mining regions
Competitive salaries matching global standards

Safety & Stability

Low
Crime rates
High personal safety
High
Political stability
Government commitment
Well-established expat support systems
Growing tourism and entertainment sector
UNESCO heritage sites and natural wonders

Bottom line: Saudi Arabia understands that attracting world-class mining talent requires world-class living conditions. The Kingdom has made substantial investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and quality of life—making it an increasingly attractive destination for Australian mining professionals.

Ready to explore opportunities?

ASMA helps Australian mining companies navigate the Saudi market, connect with partners, and make informed investment decisions.