Najran, 1 Muharram 1447H, corresponding to 26 June 2025. As part of Najran Investment Forum 2025, a specialized panel discussion titled "Developing the Industry and Mining Sector by Leveraging Najran Region's Comparative Advantages" was held today at Prince Mishaal bin Abdullah Conference and Exhibition Center, with participation from a select group of academics, experts and investors in the industrial and mining sectors.

Investing in Geological Wealth

The session reviewed Najran's key mining potential: the region holds more than 170 mining and exploration licenses and 30 mining complexes covering strategic ores including gold, granite, copper and low-grade iron used in cement manufacturing.

Participants agreed these resources represent a promising development driver if invested through effective public-private partnerships.

Education and Technical Training

The session also highlighted Najran University's efforts to align education with labor-market needs. The university launched the first mining diploma among government universities in partnership with the private sector, with a number of its graduates already hired by major regional companies. The university is also preparing to launch 12 new diploma programs, including four specialized in industry and mining, in a step to support Saudization and build national expertise.

A Smart Border Industrial City

The session also reviewed an ambitious future project: a smart border industrial city near the Al-Wadiah crossing, which would include the "Java" dry port, a food city, and education, entertainment and research zones, strengthening Najran's position as an economic hub serving the Kingdom and its regional neighbors, particularly the Yemeni market.

A Call for Integration

The session closed with speakers agreeing on the importance of stronger integration between government bodies, the private sector and academic institutions, to accelerate the region's economic opportunities in line with Saudi Vision 2030's goals of diversifying income sources and developing promising sectors.