Saudi Arabia Opens New Gold Trade Corridor in Africa, Challenging Dubai’s Long-Held Dominance
Saudi Arabia has taken a decisive step to establish itself as a major force in Africa’s gold trade, announcing its readiness to begin the immediate purchase of bullion from Sudan, an historic move that could reshape long-standing gold export routes across the continent.
The development marks a significant turning point for Sudan, which for decades has relied heavily on Dubai as the primary destination for its gold exports. Sudanese authorities believe the new partnership with Riyadh will usher in a more transparent, secure, and financially rewarding channel for managing the country’s mineral wealth, while reducing losses linked to smuggling and informal trade.
According to Sudan Tribune, the breakthrough followed high-level discussions in Riyadh between Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Alkhorayef, and Sudan’s Minister of Minerals, Nour al-Dayem Taha. The talks took place on the sidelines of the fifth Future Minerals Forum, a global gathering that attracted participants from more than 100 countries and underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing ambitions in the global mining sector.
During the meetings, both ministers explored avenues to deepen bilateral cooperation, expand mutual investments, and align their mining industries to drive sustainable economic growth.
Momentum accelerated after a subsequent meeting between a Sudanese delegation, led by Mohammed Taher Omar, Director General of the Sudanese Mineral Resources Company, and Suleiman bin Saleh al-Othaim, Chairman of the Saudi Gold Refinery Company. The Saudi side confirmed its full readiness to commence operations immediately, signaling that the new gold trade framework is ready to move from agreement to execution.
Sudan’s state mining firm disclosed that the Saudi Gold Refinery will deploy its advanced laboratories, refining capacity, and integrated logistics network to process Sudanese gold efficiently, ensuring international compliance and faster market access.
Sudan Pivots from Dubai Amid Export and Security Pressures
Sudan’s shift toward Saudi Arabia comes at a critical moment for its mining sector. Despite producing approximately 70 tonnes of gold in 2025, only 20 tonnes were officially exported, according to Finance Minister Gibril Ibrahim, highlighting persistent challenges in revenue capture, smuggling, and weak export controls.
Officials say the new partnership is expected to formalize exports, improve state revenues, and revive stalled production and exploration projects that require technical expertise and fresh capital.
Minister Taha reaffirmed Sudan’s commitment to providing all necessary facilities and regulatory support to ensure the success of Saudi investments. Meanwhile, Ahmed Haroun al-Tom, Director General of the Geological Research Authority, revealed that discussions also included granting Saudi firms exploration rights for industrial minerals such as talc, mica, chrome, and manganese, broadening cooperation beyond gold.
The realignment also unfolds against a backdrop of heightened political and security tensions. Sudan’s military authorities have accused the United Arab Emirates of recruiting Colombian mercenaries to support the Rapid Support Forces through UAE-linked bases in Somalia and eastern Libya. While Khartoum has not officially tied the gold trade shift to these allegations, analysts suggest growing mistrust of UAE involvement has reinforced Sudan’s decision to diversify its export partners.
By engaging Saudi Arabia, Sudan secures a state-backed, politically aligned partner, reducing exposure to geopolitical risks that could compromise its gold revenues.
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Analysts say the move not only opens a more profitable and regulated market for Sudanese gold but also directly challenges Dubai’s long-standing dominance over East and Central African bullion exports.
As Saudi Arabia positions itself as a new hub for African gold, the kingdom signals its expanding influence in the continent’s resource sector, while Sudan gains a strategic partner capable of modernizing its mining industry and unlocking the full value of its vast mineral wealth.
