Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Ma’aden) has signed an agreement with US-based rare earth producer MP Materials to explore the development of a fully integrated, end-to-end rare earth supply chain in Saudi Arabia.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed on the sidelines of the US–Saudi Investment Forum 2025 in Riyadh.
Ma’aden and MP Materials will assess opportunities to collaborate on a vertically integrated rare earth value chain – from mining, separation, and refining, to the production of rare earth magnets – aiming to add industrial depth and unlock value for downstream sectors.
“Through a potential partnership with MP Materials, and our deepening ties with the United States, we aim to create a global hub for a fully integrated rare earth value chain supporting advanced manufacturing in the Kingdom,” said Ma’aden CEO Bob Wilt.
“As we continue to build mining as the third pillar of the Saudi economy, this is an integral step in the exploration and development of minerals that will drive economic and industrial growth for the Kingdom.”
Rare earth magnets are critical inputs for a range of emerging technologies, including transportation, clean energy, robotics and aerospace. The partnership seeks to leverage Saudi Arabia’s competitive energy base, world-class infrastructure and strategic location to support the global expansion of rare earth supply chains.
“Today’s announcement is an important first step towards rebalancing the global supply chain in a moment of transformational growth fuelled by emerging technologies, especially in robotics and physical AI, while deepening the strategic alliance between the United States and Saudi Arabia,” said MP Materials founder, chair and CEO James Litinsky.