Saudi Arabia has revealed a significant gold discovery in the Makkah region, a find that could expand the kingdom’s mining industry and support its long-term plan to diversify away from oil. While headlines on social media have gone viral claiming a “100-kilometer gold mine,” experts caution that the announcement signals promising exploration results, not a fully operating mine — yet.

A New Gold Zone Identified

The state-run Saudi Arabian Mining Company, known as Ma’aden, announced in late 2023 that its geologists had uncovered high-grade gold deposits along a stretch of land extending roughly 100 kilometers south of the Mansourah Massarah gold mine, one of the country’s most advanced gold operations. The area is located in the Al Khurmah governorate of the Makkah region, not far from the historic gold-producing Arabian Shield.

According to Ma’aden, the new find is “geologically similar” to Mansourah Massarah, raising hopes it could lead to one of the most extensive gold belts in the Middle East.

Not a Full Mine Yet

While the discovery sparked excitement online, mining experts stress that this is still an exploration stage find. More drilling and geological work are required to confirm the total gold reserves and to determine whether mining the entire 100-kilometer stretch is economically viable.

“It’s an exciting sign of untapped potential,” said mining analyst Ahmed Al-Humaidi. “But gold projects require years of feasibility studies and development before they can significantly impact supply or the market.”

Strategic Importance for Saudi Arabia

The announcement aligns with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s plan to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on oil revenue. Mining — particularly gold, copper, and phosphates — is a key growth sector. Ma’aden says the country’s mineral resources are worth an estimated $1.3 trillion.

Developing new gold resources could create jobs, attract foreign investment, and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position in global precious metals supply. Still, economists caution against expecting an immediate effect on gold prices or global markets until production scales up.

Growing Global Attention

International news outlets such as Arab News, Anadolu Agency, and Times of India reported on the find, noting its potential but emphasizing that production is years away. Industry observers say the region could become a new hub for exploration and mining technology if the reserves prove extensive.

Bottom Line

Saudi Arabia’s 100-kilometer gold discovery is real but preliminary — it represents a major step forward for the country’s mining ambitions but not an instant economic game-changer. As exploration continues, the world will be watching to see if this promising find turns into one of the Middle East’s most significant gold mining operations.