The Saudi mining sector witnessed two key updates this week, including the restart of AMAK’s Al Masane base metals processing plant and Knauf International’s acquisition of a controlling stake in United Mining Industries.

AMAK Restarts Al Masane Base Metals Processing Plant

Al Masane Al Kobra Mining Company – AMAK announced the restart of operations at Al Masane base metals processing plant, which processes zinc and copper concentrates, effective 13 May 2026, after a temporary shutdown that lasted 16 weeks.

The company stated that the restart aligns with its 2026 business plan, which aims to improve and maximize the long-term utilization of ore production from the Sa’adah, Al Houra, and Moeidh deposits. Together, these deposits represent the underground mining operation at Al Masane for base and precious metals.

AMAK expects the restart to support operational efficiency and stabilize production levels in the coming period. The financial impact related to the shutdown and the resumption of operations will depend on average metal selling prices during the relevant period and is expected to be reflected in the company’s financial results for the second quarter of 2026.

Knauf Acquires 63.2% of United Mining Industries for SAR 504.5 Million

United Mining Industries Company announced that it had received a notice from Knauf International GmbH confirming the completion of a private transaction to acquire all shares held by the company’s major shareholders.

The transaction included 8.9 million ordinary shares, representing 63.2% of the company’s total share capital, with a total value of SAR 504.5 million. The deal was completed after fulfilling the required regulatory conditions and obtaining the relevant approvals.

According to the company, Knauf aims to expand its presence in the region, particularly in the Saudi market, which is considered one of the largest and fastest-growing markets in the construction and building materials sector. The company also aims to support industrial growth in Saudi Arabia.

United Mining also stated that Knauf intends to submit an offer to acquire the remaining shares of the company as soon as possible after completing the private transaction, with the potential to acquire up to 100% of the company’s shares.

Following the transaction, three board members submitted their resignations: Ali bin Saleh Al-Dakhil, Abdullah bin Ibrahim Al-Mu’ajjil, and Abdulrahman bin Rashid Al-Balawi. The board also approved the appointment of two new non-executive members, Serge Nicolas Bekhazi and Paul Christopher Button, to complete the current board term, which ends on 29 May 2027.

This week’s updates reflect continued activity across Saudi Arabia’s mining and mining-related industries, from the restart of base-metal processing operations to a major strategic acquisition that strengthens the presence of international players in the Saudi market.