Latest news with #InternationalMiningConference


Leaders
5 days ago
- Science
- Leaders
KAUST, KACST Set New Benchmark in Data Security with Quantum Innovation
A collaborative team of scientists from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in data security. The researchers have developed the world's fastest quantum random number generator (QRNG), according to international performance standards. QRNG In a statement from KAUST, the university announced that their QRNG successfully passed the rigorous randomness tests set by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The device generates random numbers at speeds nearly 1,000 times faster than existing QRNGs. 'This marks a major breakthrough for industries that rely on robust data security,' said Professor Boon Ooi of KAUST, lead author of the study published in Optics Express . Random number generators are essential for secure applications in sectors like healthcare, finance, and defense. However, conventional systems often rely on 'pseudo-random' algorithms — complex but ultimately predictable computations. In contrast, QRNGs use quantum mechanics to generate truly random numbers, making them inherently more secure. 'Unlike traditional systems, quantum random number generators don't just appear random — they are fundamentally unpredictable due to their quantum basis,' explained Professor Ooi. The team's record-setting performance was made possible by innovative advances in both device fabrication and post-processing algorithms. Their QRNG utilizes ultra-small micro-LEDs — only a few micrometers in size — which significantly lower power consumption and enhance portability, enabling broader deployment across various technologies. Dr. Abdullah Almogbel, a contributing researcher from KACST's Microelectronics and Semiconductors Institute and Director of the Center of Excellence for Solid-State Lighting, emphasized the project's alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. KAUST 'KACST is dedicated to advancing applied research that supports national goals, especially in positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in strategic fields like quantum-enabled technologies,' said Almogbel. 'Research like this has the potential to deliver high value across multiple industries and enhance Saudi Arabia's global competitiveness.' National Institute of Standard and Technology (NIST), an internationally recognized authority in measurement standards, sets the benchmarks used to validate the quality and integrity of random number generators. Related Topics: Higher Education: Saudi Arabia's Emergence as Global Destination Saudi Students Organize Qur'an Competitions in UK Saudi Women in the Workforce: How Does the Kingdom achieve real Empowerment? International Mining Conference to Host Global Geological Survey Leaders in Jan. Short link : Post Views: 8


Arab News
12-03-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia invites applications for exploration permits in Riyadh, Madinah regions
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has opened applications for pre-qualification for mining exploration licenses across three mineral-rich belts in the Riyadh and Madinah regions, covering nearly 50 percent of the total area. This initiative spans 24,946 sq. km. and is part of the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources' broader plan to offer exploration licenses for over 50,000 sq. km. in 2025, following an announcement made at the 4th International Mining Conference in January. The ministry is inviting both local and international exploration companies to compete for these licenses, aiming to accelerate mineral exploration and development. This move is expected to harness Saudi Arabia's mineral wealth, estimated at SR9.3 trillion, and strengthen value-added mineral supply chains to support economic diversification, according to a ministry post on X. The targeted mineralized belts include Nuqrah and Sukhaybrah Al-Safra in the Madinah region, as well as Nabitah in Riyadh. These areas are rich in resources like gold, copper, silver, zinc, and nickel, presenting substantial investment opportunities. The pre-qualification application deadline for exploration licenses is set for May. To ensure transparency, geological and technical data for these sites are available on the Tadeen platform, providing investors with insights from previous licenses and geological surveys conducted by the Saudi Geological Survey Authority. In line with efforts to streamline the licensing process, the ministry has designed this year's mining exploration competition to be fully automated, transparent, and fair. The process will consist of three key phases: the pre-qualification phase, which evaluates the technical capabilities of applicants; the site selection and bidding phase; and the final award and licensing phase. The pre-qualification phase began in January during the International Mining Conference and will continue until early May. The ministry has ensured that all essential geological and technical data is accessible on Tadeen, ensuring a level playing field for all competitors, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. This initiative is expected to drive exploration spending, enhance the national geological database, generate new jobs, and contribute to sustainable economic growth. It also aligns with Saudi Arabia's commitment to developing the mining sector in line with global best practices, with a focus on environmental sustainability and social responsibility. In a related move, the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment, launched the second phase of the Mining Exploration Empowerment Program in January. This initiative offers financial support of up to SR7.5 million per project to companies with valid exploration licenses that have been held for less than five years, according to SPA. The program is designed to reduce risks for early-stage exploration companies, encourage investment in the mining sector, and complement existing incentives under the Mining Investment Law, which allows 100 percent foreign ownership and provides financing of up to 75 percent of capital costs through the Industrial Development Fund. Saudi Arabia has allocated over 10,000 sq. km. for mining exploration in recent years. The upcoming 50,000 sq. km. for 2025 further underscores the Kingdom's commitment to fostering a transparent and attractive investment environment, as reported by SPA. This initiative plays a key role in the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which seeks to position mining as a vital pillar of economic diversification and a driver of sustainable growth.


Saudi Gazette
19-02-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Energy minister: Changes initiated by Crown Prince create real impact for Saudi Arabia
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said that the changes initiated by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman have been instrumental in creating a real impact for Saudi Arabia. The energy minister said this while attending a dialogue session titled "Energy corridors and decision-making," moderated Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary, at the fourth edition of the Saudi Media Forum in Riyadh on Wednesday. Prince Abdulaziz stressed that influence makers need change makers. 'The concept of change makers in the Kingdom has evolved to become a comprehensive concept," he said. The minister said that media material has become available to influencers through the Vision programs, and therefore it is currently said that the Kingdom welcomes the world. It also involves the world in its programs and major events such as hosting Expo 2030 and the World Cup 2034, and opening the way to benefit from various activities in the Kingdom such as tourism, economy, media, commerce and investment. Prince Abdulaziz shed light on his experience in appearing in the media during difficult circumstances, including the attack on Saudi Aramco facilities, which required appearing despite the difficulty of the matter and overcoming the consequences of this bitter incident with its psychological, moral and economic impact. The minister also mentioned his endeavor to convey his experience to officials and employees in the Ministry of Energy and expose them to similar experiences with the aim of breaking the psychological barrier and getting out of crises. Prince Abdulaziz, who served earlier as a lecturer at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, also spoke about his participation in the past period, indicating that the closest to his heart is participating in the conferences of the Misk Foundation, for many reasons, most notably its educational nature. He gave an example of his participation in the International Mining Conference, indicating that the transformation that has occurred in the subject of energy security, which is no longer limited to oil security or oil exports from the Middle East region, but also includes natural materials and components necessary for renewable energy, and therefore it is necessary to participate in this event because the message we want to deliver has a great impact.


Saudi Gazette
19-02-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Energy minister: Changes made by Crown Prince contribute to real positive impact on Saudi Arabia
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said that the changes made by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman have been instrumental in creating a real positive impact on Saudi Arabia. He said this while attending a dialogue session titled "Energy corridors and decision-making," moderated Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary, at the fourth edition of the Saudi Media Forum in Riyadh on Wednesday. Prince Abdulaziz stressed that influence makers need change makers. 'The concept of change makers in the Kingdom has evolved to become a comprehensive concept, and change makers are now a leadership that motivates change, and those who make change are those who will benefit from change, and we must make ourselves feel that each one of us is a changemaker," he pointed out. The minister said that media material has become available to influencers through the Vision programs, and therefore it is currently said that the Kingdom welcomes the world. It also involves the world in its programs and major events such as hosting Expo 2030 and the World Cup 2034, and opening the way to benefit from various activities in the Kingdom such as tourism, economy, media, commerce and investment. Prince Abdulaziz shed light on his experience in appearing in the media during difficult circumstances, including the attack on Saudi Aramco facilities, which required appearing despite the difficulty of the matter and overcoming the consequences of this bitter incident with its psychological, moral and economic impact. The minister also mentioned his endeavor to convey his experience to officials and employees in the Ministry of Energy and expose them to similar experiences with the aim of breaking the psychological barrier and getting out of crises. Prince Abdulaziz, who served earlier as a lecturer at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, also spoke about his participation in the past period, indicating that the closest to his heart is participating in the conferences of the Misk Foundation, for many reasons, most notably its educational nature. He gave an example of his participation in the International Mining Conference, indicating that the transformation that has occurred in the subject of energy security, which is no longer limited to oil security or oil exports from the Middle East region, but also includes natural materials and components necessary for renewable energy, and therefore it is necessary to participate in this event because the message we want to deliver has a great impact.