Saudi Arabia discovers 110 million tonnes of uranium and rare-earth ore

Saudi Arabia has identified approximately 110 million tonnes of ore containing high concentrations of rare-earth elements and promising levels of uranium in the Medina region. Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman announced the findings during the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna.

The discovery at the Jabal Said site is part of the kingdom's efforts to diversify its energy mix and develop nuclear power capabilities. In addition to direct extraction, officials are examining the possibility of recovering uranium as a byproduct of fertilizer production.

This development follows a recent civil nuclear cooperation agreement between Saudi Arabia and the United States. The partnership aims to provide a framework for long-term collaboration, potentially allowing U.S. companies to participate in the kingdom's nuclear energy programs, including the possible construction of U.S.-designed reactors.