Rocks, Riyals, and Roundtables: Riyadh's Mineral Party Is Back

**RIYADH, Saudi Arabia** is gearing up for something big. The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources announced that the sixth Future Minerals Forum (FMF) will run from 12–14 January 2027. It takes place under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, with the theme "Global Collaboration for Resilient Mineral Supply."

The fifth edition drew 21,500 participants from 175 countries. Moreover, delegates signed 132 agreements and MoUs worth over USD 26.7 billion. Altogether, five editions have produced 398 deals valued at more than USD 75.2 billion.

This year, organizers will focus on mobilizing finance and speeding up project development. Furthermore, they aim to help emerging suppliers across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The government-led Ministerial Roundtable will headline the event. Meanwhile, "Gateway to Funding" will connect investors with scalable projects.

The Kingdom's mining sector has grown right alongside the Forum. Exploration spending jumped from USD 54.7 million in 2020 to USD 362.7 million in 2025. Likewise, active exploration companies climbed from six to 191.

Additionally, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman announced that Jabal Sayid holds an estimated 114 million tons of rare earth ore.

FMF 2027 will issue a global call to diversify mineral supply. Therefore, start planning now. Visit futuremineralsforum.com to register.

Forging the Future: Riyadh’s Glittering Triumph at the Fifth Future Minerals Forum

A Monumental Gathering in the Heart of Saudi Arabia

In the vibrant city of **Riyadh, Saudi Arabia**, history unfolded between January 13 and 15, 2026, at the impressive King Abdulaziz International Conference Center. The **Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources** heralded the **successful conclusion of the fifth edition of the Future Minerals Forum (FMF)**, shattering previous records with an astounding **21,500 participants**. Ministers from over **100 governments** and **59 international organizations** converged to advance global cooperation on responsible mineral supply chains during the 5th Ministerial Roundtable.  

As the event progressed, the atmosphere buzzed with ambition and innovation. A staggering **132 agreements and Memoranda of Understanding**, worth **USD 26.6 billion**, were signed, covering a rich spectrum of priorities — from advanced exploration and sustainable mining to financing, R&D, value-added supply chains, and transformative mining industries. This was not just a conference; it was a bold declaration of the region’s commitment to becoming a global mining hub.  

Innovation, Momentum, and Uniting the Mining World

His Excellency **Bandar Alkhorayef**, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, captured the essence of the moment in his closing remarks. He stressed that the Forum’s unprecedented momentum reflects remarkable advancement in the **global mining ecosystem**. Within only five years, the FMF has evolved from an ambitious concept into a thriving international platform, fostering year-round partnerships and shared progress. Transitioning to the future, he emphasized accelerating the adoption of mining technologies as a pivotal driver of growth.  

Moreover, Saudi Arabia’s continued effort to refine its **regulatory framework** and enhance the investment climate stood out. Streamlined licensing processes, accessible geological data, and targeted incentive programs created fertile ground for collaboration. Across the exhibition halls, **274 exhibitors** and **13 official country pavilions** showcased heavy machinery, state-of-the-art technologies, and forward-looking innovations. Nations from **Australia to Mauritania** brought unique perspectives, highlighting how minerals could power sustainable economic growth.  

The **Fifth Future Minerals Forum** in Riyadh was more than an event; it was a turning point. With **450 speakers**, countless partnerships, and billions pledged, it positioned Saudi Arabia at the center of an ever-evolving global mining narrative. This year’s forum proved that collaboration, when fused with vision and innovation, can reshape industries — and even entire economies.