Kuya Silver's Umm-Hadid Project: A High-Grade Silver-Gold Discovery in a Strategic Emerging Market

Kuya Silver's Umm-Hadid Project in Saudi Arabia has emerged as a standout exploration success in 2025, combining high-grade silver-gold mineralization with cutting-edge technological methods in a country poised to become a global mining powerhouse. As Saudi Arabia advances its Vision 2030 agenda, the project's strategic location, geological promise, and Kuya's technical expertise position it as a compelling investment opportunity.

A Geologically Promising Landscape

The Umm-Hadid Project spans 246 km² in central Saudi Arabia, an area characterized by Proterozoic rocks, granodiorite intrusions, and large shear zones-features historically associated with precious and base metal deposits. Recent drilling has confirmed the presence of a large-scale hydrothermal system, with three major target areas exhibiting distinct structural and geological characteristics. For instance, Hole 25-UH-010 returned 2.0 meters grading 1,483.9 g/t AgEq (3.8 g/t Au and 1,227 g/t Ag), while Hole 25-UH-018 showed 2.0 meters grading 718 g/t AgEq (3.0 g/t Au and 514.5 g/t Ag). Surface samples further highlighted the project's potential, with an arithmetic average of 86.10 g/t AgEq and a standout sample grading 1,359.82 g/t AgEq.

Technological Edge in Exploration

Kuya Silver's approach to the Umm-Hadid Project leverages modern technologies to maximize efficiency and accuracy. Hyperspectral remote sensing and AI-driven targeting have been instrumental in identifying high-priority zones within the vast license area. These tools enabled the identification of three major targets, including sinistral strike-slip shear zones in granodiorite and NE-trending structures in felsic rocks. By integrating AI with traditional geological analysis, Kuya has accelerated the validation of mineralized zones, reducing exploration risk and increasing the likelihood of discovering economically viable deposits.

Strategic Alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia's recent discovery of 11 million tons of silver reserves underscores the country's ambition to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on oil. The government has introduced incentives for mining sector development, including streamlined licensing and infrastructure investments, creating a favorable environment for projects like Umm-Hadid. Kuya's joint venture with Sumou Holding-a consortium that secured the exploration license in early 2024-aligns with these national goals. Under the agreement, Kuya holds a 5% non-dilutable interest initially, with the potential to acquire an additional 40% by reimbursing 40% of expenditures incurred up to April 2027. This structure not only mitigates upfront capital risk but also rewards Kuya for successful exploration outcomes.

Financial and Operational Momentum

The Umm-Hadid Project is part of a broader $20 million five-year exploration program, with a planned 5,000-meter drill program set to begin in June 2025. This follows the completion of 5,001.58 meters of drilling across 29 holes in Q3 2025, which confirmed the presence of a robust mineralized system. Meanwhile, Kuya's operations in Peru-specifically the Bethania Silver Project-have demonstrated operational strength, with record concentrate sales and infrastructure upgrades boosting production reliability. These successes reinforce Kuya's credibility as a developer capable of transforming high-grade discoveries into viable operations.

Investment Considerations

While the Umm-Hadid Project is in its early stages, the combination of high-grade results, advanced technology, and strategic alignment with Saudi Arabia's economic vision creates a strong foundation for long-term value creation. However, investors should note that resource estimates remain preliminary, and further drilling will be critical to define the full extent of mineralization. Additionally, geopolitical risks and regulatory changes in Saudi Arabia could impact project timelines. That said, the government's commitment to mining sector growth and Kuya's technical leadership mitigate many of these concerns.

Conclusion

Kuya Silver's Umm-Hadid Project represents a rare convergence of geological potential, technological innovation, and macroeconomic tailwinds. With high-grade silver-gold intercepts already confirmed and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 providing a supportive backdrop, the project has the potential to evolve into a cornerstone of Kuya's portfolio. For investors seeking exposure to a technologically driven, high-impact exploration play in an emerging market, Umm-Hadid offers a compelling case.