The Future Minerals Forum concluded its fifth edition in Riyadh with unprecedented success, attracting 21,500 participants from around the globe and securing agreements worth $26.6 billion. The event, held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center from January 13-15, 2026, brought together investment leaders, heads of major mining companies, experts, and technical specialists to advance the global minerals sector.
The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources announced the successful completion of the Future Minerals Forum, which witnessed the signing of 132 agreements and memoranda of understanding. These agreements covered critical areas including exploration, mining, financing, research and development, innovation, sustainability, value-added supply chains, and mining industries.
Record Participation and Global Cooperation
Ministers from more than 100 governments and 59 international organizations gathered for the 5th Ministerial Roundtable in Riyadh, advancing global cooperation on responsible mineral supply chains. The forum’s unprecedented momentum reflects progress in the broader global mining ecosystem, establishing itself as a shared cause for all stakeholders.
Minister Highlights Saudi Arabia’s Mining Transformation
“In just five years, the Future Minerals Forum has progressed at a remarkable pace, becoming a shared cause for all stakeholders and laying the foundation for year-round cooperation. Real progress is linked to accelerating the adoption of mining technologies as a key driver of growth.”
Bandar Alkhorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources
Minister Alkhorayef emphasized Saudi Arabia’s efforts to reform its regulatory framework and improve the investment environment through procedural reviews, updated regulations, streamlined licensing processes, available geological data, and incentive programs to support exploration and attract partners across the entire value chain.
Comprehensive Program and Expert Insights
Over three days, more than 450 speakers—including ministers, government representatives, and industry experts—explored investment partnerships, community development, new mining projects, AI-powered decision-making, and the integration of local economies into the mining value chain. The diverse program addressed the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the global minerals sector.
International Exhibition Showcases Global Mining Innovation
The international exhibition featured 274 exhibitors and 13 official pavilions from Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Sweden, Austria, Brazil, Egypt, Morocco, Pakistan, Sudan, and Mauritania. The exhibition was organized across four key areas: heavy machinery and equipment, cutting-edge technological innovations, major global companies, and small exploration firms.
The success of this year’s forum demonstrates the growing importance of minerals in the global transition to sustainable energy and advanced technologies. As nations worldwide seek to secure critical mineral supplies, events like the Future Minerals Forum play an increasingly vital role in fostering international cooperation and investment in the sector.
