The UAE and Saudi Arabia are emerging as powerful players in the global critical minerals market, leveraging their financial strength, access to low-cost energy, and strategic partnerships to secure and expand supply chains.
As the demand for essential minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements surges—driven by the green energy transition and advanced manufacturing—both Gulf nations are intensifying their investments in mining, processing, and trade agreements.
Saudi Arabia, through its Vision 2030 initiative, has been aggressively investing in mining projects both domestically and abroad. The country aims to develop its vast mineral resources, estimated to be worth over $1.3 trillion, while forging partnerships with key suppliers in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) has also been actively acquiring stakes in global mining firms to ensure a steady supply of critical materials.
Meanwhile, the UAE is positioning itself as a global hub for mineral refining and trading. With its strategic location and world-class infrastructure, the country is facilitating the flow of critical minerals between producers and consumers worldwide. The UAE has also entered long-term agreements with key mining nations, ensuring access to essential resources needed for industries such as battery manufacturing and high-tech production.
Both countries are utilizing their abundant and cost-effective energy resources, particularly natural gas and renewables, to develop sustainable refining and processing capabilities. This approach not only enhances energy security but also aligns with global efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of mineral extraction and processing.
As geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions continue to challenge global markets, the growing role of Saudi Arabia and the UAE in the critical minerals sector marks a strategic shift. By strengthening their positions as key suppliers and facilitators, the two Gulf nations are not only securing their own economic futures but also reshaping the global landscape of critical mineral trade.
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