Saudi Arabia Starts New Program Wave to Boost Mineral Exploration and Attract Investors
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has started Wave 3 of the Exploration Enablement Program, known as EEP, to grow its mining sector and attract more investors. The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources launched the program together with the Ministry of Investment. The goal is to make mineral exploration faster, safer, and more affordable for companies.
This new wave gives direct support to companies that search for minerals across the Kingdom. It also helps reduce early project risks. As a result, more local and international investors can take part in mining projects in Saudi Arabia.
Under EEP Wave 3, companies can receive up to 25 percent cash support for exploration work. For example, the program helps pay for drilling, laboratory tests, and geoscience studies. In addition, the program supports employee salaries to make hiring easier.
Companies can receive up to 15 percent salary support for workers who live in Saudi Arabia. During the first two years, the program can cover up to 70 percent of local salary costs. After that, it may cover up to 100 percent, as long as companies meet the program rules.
Applications opened on January 14, 2026. Interested companies can now submit their proposals. Saudi Arabia offers a strong investment climate, clear mining licenses, political stability, and modern transport systems. Because of this, many investors see the Kingdom as a good place for mining projects.
The program follows a clear timeline. First, companies submit proposals between January 14 and March 31, 2026. Next, officials review and approve proposals from April 1 to May 31. Then authorities announce the selected companies between June 1 and July 31. After that, companies submit their exploration data from September 1 to November 30. Technical and financial checks will take place in January 2027. Finally, officials will publish the exploration data in the National Geological Database in April 2027.
Companies are encouraged to apply before the Future Minerals Forum. During the event, Saudi Arabia will showcase its mining opportunities and investor support programs to global partners.
More information about EEP Wave 3 and the application process is available on the Taadeen platform website.
