Jordan continues to implement its ambitious plans to develop the mining sector and maximize the utilization of its mineral resources by accelerating exploration activities in several promising areas, most notably the Abu Khushaybah region, which is rich in copper ore and associated minerals.

As part of this effort, Jordan has engaged one of Saudi Arabia’s leading drilling and exploration companies to carry out exploratory drilling operations at the Abu Khushaybah project, alongside the construction of the first ore processing plant in the area.

On Thursday, June 18, 2026, Jordan’s Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Saleh Al-Kharabsheh, witnessed the signing of a contract between Wadi Araba Minerals Company and the Saudi company Golden Compass to execute exploratory drilling works as part of Jordan’s first copper exploration and development project of its kind.

The agreement was announced during the Minister’s inspection visit to the project site in southern Jordan. The visit also included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Wadi Araba Minerals and the Vocational Training Corporation to support the training and qualification of Jordanian professionals for the mining sector.

These initiatives are aligned with Jordan’s strategy to increase the mining sector’s contribution to GDP in line with the Economic Modernization Vision and to capitalize on the growing global demand for strategic minerals, particularly copper.

The government aims to localize expertise and create employment opportunities for residents of nearby communities through specialized training programs and partnerships with vocational institutions, thereby supporting the long-term sustainability of the mining sector.

Minister Al-Kharabsheh stated that Wadi Araba Minerals, the holder of the copper exploration concession in Abu Khushaybah, is carrying out its activities in accordance with the signed executive agreement and a clearly defined technical development plan.

He further noted that the company has already commenced civil works for the construction of Jordan’s first copper ore processing plant, with plans to develop a larger facility in a later phase.

According to the Minister, the Abu Khushaybah copper exploration and development agreement is the first of its kind in Jordan. He added that the Ministry is also working with other companies that have signed memoranda of understanding to explore various minerals in different regions of the Kingdom.

Al-Kharabsheh emphasized that the Abu Khushaybah project aligns with the increasing global demand for strategic minerals, highlighting copper’s critical role in renewable energy projects, electric vehicles, and power transmission infrastructure.

The project forms part of the Ministry’s efforts to revitalize Jordan’s mining sector, increase its contribution to the national economy, create new employment opportunities, improve living standards, and maximize the value of the country’s natural resources.

The Minister also explained that the memorandum signed with the Vocational Training Corporation aims to establish a specialized training center in Abu Khushaybah to develop local talent and enhance workforce capabilities in the mining industry.

He noted that Golden Compass, a company specializing in drilling operations, geological surveys, ore evaluation, and mining consultancy services, has been contracted to conduct the exploratory drilling program using advanced technologies, modern equipment, and highly experienced technical teams.

The contract was signed on behalf of Golden Compass by its CEO, Eng. Meshary Al-Ali,

For his part, Hani Al-Asmar, General Manager of Wadi Araba Minerals, described the Abu Khushaybah copper exploration and development project as one of Jordan’s most promising mining investments due to its significant economic and investment potential.

He stated that the company plans to establish the country’s first ore processing plant during the current year, with an annual processing capacity ranging between 1,000 and 3,000 tons of copper ore, while adhering to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and local development principles.

Al-Asmar added that the company has strengthened its engagement with local communities through consultations with community leaders and stakeholders in Abu Khushaybah, resulting in the formation of a joint committee to coordinate project requirements, including workforce and service needs.

The project is expected to create more than 800 direct jobs, in addition to hundreds of indirect employment opportunities, following the training of local residents through the planned vocational training center.

He also noted that the company has initiated an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) through a specialized consulting firm to ensure that mining activities are carried out in accordance with international best practices while maintaining a balance between economic development, environmental protection, and the preservation of natural.