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Mining License

Mining Business License in Saudi Arabia

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License Essentials: Obtaining a Mining License in KSA

Saudi Arabia is emerging as a global mining hub, driven by a national strategy to diversify its economy and unlock its untapped mineral wealth. Backed by Vision 2030 and an ambitious $170+ billion mining investment target, the Kingdom is opening doors for both local and international investors. If you're looking to enter this rapidly growing sector, obtaining a Mining License from the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MIMR) is a critical first step.

Overview of Mining Licenses & Permits in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi mining sector is governed by the Mining Investment Law (2020), ensuring transparency and investor confidence. Below are the main license types:

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1. Mining License

Purpose: Mine and exploit Class A & B minerals, with rights to sell/transfer materials.

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2. Reconnaissance License

Purpose: Preliminary exploration of mineral areas, sample collection.

3. Exploration License

Purpose: Search and analyze minerals via surface/geological methods.

4. General Purposes License

Purpose: Establish off-site facilities for mining/small mining licensees.

5. Building Materials License

Purpose: Mine Class C minerals like gravel, sand.

6. Small Mining License

Purpose: Similar to a Mining License, for smaller-scale Class A & B mining.

7. Surplus Raw Materials License

Purpose: Transport and utilize excess Class C materials from owned sites.

Mining Business Licensing Process in KSA: The 3-Stage Market Entry Roadmap

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Step 1: Legal Entity Establishment (Projected timeline: 1 month)

The setup journey begins with establishing your legal foundation, securing the MISA license, reserving your name, drafting the Articles of Association (AoA), obtaining the Certificate of Registration (CR) and Certificate of Compliance (CoC), all of which are legalized and translated into Arabic.
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Step 2: Authorization and Hiring (Projected Timeline: 2 months)

Next, authorize operations by obtaining a company seal, registering with the Ministry of Labor, GOSI, and National Address, issuing a GM visa, and completing GAZT and VAT registration.
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Step 3: Residency and Banking (Projected timeline: 3 months)

Finally, complete residency procedures and activate your corporate presence by issuing the GM’s Iqama, registering with key government platforms (Muqeem, Absher, Qiwa, Mudad), and opening a corporate bank account.

AstroLabs Advantage

AstroLabs Advantage
OfferingAstroLabsCorporate Services Companies offering PRO & GROLaw FirmsIn-House
40+ on-ground local team of experts
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Government portal management and compliance support
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Full management of your company licenses and certificates
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Management of registered employees across the employee journey, from hiring to ongoing management
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Full suite of support: PRO, GRO, HRs support and access to a pool of Saudi talent
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National Address Registration with varied coworking and private office locations
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Seamlessly manage GRO services online using a digital platform
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Corporare bank account opening
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Access to a community of 700+ high-growth businesses in Saudi Arabia
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Extended media and exposure support through press releases, social media coverage and articles
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Opportunity-matchmaking with potential partners in governmental entities and corporates
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Access to global and regional events such as BIBAN, LEAP, Seamless, etc
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Frequently Asked Questions