Maaden has awarded a major Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management (EPCM) contract to Bechtel for its Ar Rjum gold mine. This announcement follows Maaden’s Final Investment Decision (FID) on Ar Rjum in August 2025, supporting the company’s goal to double gold production by 2030.
Under the SAR 391.1 million (USD 104.3 million) agreement, Bechtel, a leading global engineering, construction, and project management firm, will provide EPCM services for the development of the mine and processing facilities.
The multi-year project will advance Saudi Arabia’s newest gold mine at Ar Rjum, located in the Makkah Region, approximately 200 kilometers northeast of Ta’if. Ar Rjum is expected to produce 3.6 million ounces of gold over a 12-year mine life. The project will feature an open-pit operation and a modern processing facility with a capacity of eight million tons per annum (Mtpa) of ore.
Bob Wilt, CEO of Maaden, commented: “The Ar Rjum Project marks a major milestone in strengthening Maaden’s portfolio. With ambitious targets for our gold business, Ar Rjum will be central to our plans to double production while continuing to grow and develop our talent pipeline. We remain confident in the significant potential of the Kingdom’s mineral resources, with gold playing a key role in unlocking that opportunity.”
Ailie MacAdam, President of Bechtel Mining & Metals, said: “For more than 80 years, Bechtel has contributed to the region’s infrastructure — from landmark projects like Jubail Industrial City to the recent completion of the Riyadh Metro. Our experience delivering complex, world-class projects, combined with deep mining expertise, positions us to execute this critical project. In partnership with Maaden, and leveraging Bechtel’s global network of more than 7,000 suppliers along with strong local partnerships, we are proud to support a project that drives long-term regional growth and prosperity.”
Maaden’s collaboration with Bechtel reinforces its record of partnering with leading global engineering and mining firms to transform the Kingdom’s resource sector. Over its expected 12-year operation, the Ar Rjum project will generate economic value, create opportunities for local suppliers, support surrounding communities, and accelerate the growth of Saudi Arabia’s mining industry.
Source: Maaden