Gulf economies are investing heavily in African mining to secure long-term access to critical and strategic minerals.

These minerals are essential for clean energy, electric vehicles, and advanced technologies. Gulf States want to diversify away from their oil dependency and control supply chains in the energy transition economy.

· Countries like Saudi Arabia (Vision 2030) and the UAE (Operation 300 BN) are aiming to become industrial powerhouses

· Partnerships secured in Africa support the ambitions regarding metallurgical processing, logistics, and manufacturing.

· The UAE and Saudi Arabia are becoming attractive alternatives to Western and Chinese partners for African nations

· The Gulf States are investing in African ports and corridors such as UAE’s DP World in Senegal, Mozambique, and Somaliland. These initiatives give them immense influence over export routes and trade infrastructure

· Gulf states often offer fast-track deals, less political friction, and Sharia-compliant financing options

· African countries see them as non-colonial, less interventionist partners. This makes them attractive players in mining agreements in fragile or emerging jurisdictions.