Saudi Arabia’s Mining Revolution: Cloud Tech Cuts Exploration Time by 50%

In a groundbreaking move that promises to revolutionize Saudi Arabia’s mining industry, cloud technology is taking center stage as the kingdom pushes forward with its ambitious Vision 2030 goals. This digital transformation is set to dramatically reduce exploration timelines, enhance operational efficiency, and position Saudi Arabia as a global leader in mining innovation.

Cloud Computing: A Game-Changer for Saudi Mining

Abdullah Al-Osaimi, senior vice president of procurement and business support at Ma’aden, Saudi Arabia’s mining giant, emphasizes the critical role of cloud technology in the sector’s future. “Cloud solutions, along with mobility and edge computing, are crucial for achieving faster and more accurate exploration and production results,” Al-Osaimi stated. This technological leap is expected to slash the traditional 15-year timeline from exploration to full production by half, marking a significant milestone in the industry’s efficiency.

The adoption of cloud-based solutions is particularly crucial for operations in remote areas, where most mineral discoveries are made. Al-Osaimi notes, “If you don’t incorporate a cloud strategy, operating in such environments will be extremely difficult.” This shift not only enhances operational capabilities but also aligns with Ma’aden’s ambitious growth plans to expand tenfold by 2040.

Integration with AI and IoT

The cloud transformation goes hand-in-hand with the integration of other advanced technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). AI is being deployed to enhance productivity and accuracy in mining operations, while IoT devices connected to cloud platforms enable real-time monitoring and decision-making.

“AI is one of the key technologies we are adopting. It is not just a buzzword; it is an essential tool that helps us enhance productivity and accuracy,” Al-Osaimi emphasized.

This technological synergy is expected to drive unprecedented levels of efficiency and safety in Saudi Arabia’s mining operations, setting new industry standards globally.

Government Support and Vision 2030

The Saudi government’s support for this digital transformation is evident through initiatives like the Cloud First Policy, introduced in 2019, and the establishment of a Cloud Computing Special Economic Zone in 2023. These initiatives have attracted major investments from global tech giants, further bolstering the kingdom’s digital infrastructure.

Oracle, a key player in this transformation, has committed $1.5 billion to expand cloud capacity in Saudi Arabia. Reham Al-Musa, managing director for Oracle Saudi Arabia, highlighted the company’s role: “We were the first cloud provider to open a data center in the Kingdom in 2021 and are now supporting the integration of generative AI and other capabilities.”

This push towards cloud technology in mining is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on oil, as outlined in Vision 2030. The mining sector is seen as a key pillar in this economic transformation, with technology playing a central role in its development.

Global Impact and Future Prospects

The transformation of Saudi Arabia’s mining industry through cloud technology is not just a local phenomenon but has global implications. As the kingdom positions itself as a leader in mining innovation, it’s setting new benchmarks for the industry worldwide.

The recently unveiled Mining Innovation Studio at the Future Minerals Forum 2025 further underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in the mining sector. This initiative aims to develop new technologies and best practices that can be applied globally, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a pioneer in mining solutions.

As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in and adopt cutting-edge technologies, the mining industry stands on the brink of a new era. The integration of cloud computing, AI, and IoT is not just transforming operations but is reshaping the entire landscape of mineral exploration and production. With these advancements, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to become a global hub for mining technology and innovation, paving the way for a more efficient, sustainable, and prosperous future in the mining sector.

Karim Al-Mansour