Technology and its appropriate implementation are essential to achieving the desired gains in resource utilization, operational efficiency, safety, and security in Saudi Arabia's mining and minerals sector. A noted international expert, Dr. Peter Stegmaier, Executive Vice President, Strategic Business Development, Hexagon Mining, representing Atheeb Intergraph Saudi Company (AISC), recommends computerizing the complete mining lifecycle, from exploration to rehabilitation on all levels, to facilitate more efficient resource utilization, safety, environmental protection and the transfer of the latest proven technologies and know-how into Saudi Arabia. "Equally important, Saudi Arabia needs to work with partners who have international mining experience and a core focus on mining and are teamed with a strong Saudi team mate for in Kingdom support such as AISC. Decision makers within the government have to ensure a clear integration path for all data generated in the mines for consistency and efficiency. With these in place, Saudi Arabia can benefit tremendously from the transfer of technology and knowledge that will help develop its mining and minerals sector," added Dr. Stegmaier, who will help examine the Kingdom's options in developing, promoting and embracing innovation in technology at Saudi Mining and Minerals 2015 that starts today (Oct. 27) at the Al-Faisaliah Hotel. Other leading mining and technology gurus will be at the conference to share their expertise on the very latest technologies and innovations in the global mining and minerals sector at a special technology panel to be participated in by Emad Al-Saadawi, Director, Exploration Technical Services, Ma'aden (KSA); Mark Campodonic, Principal Resource Geologist & Head of Geology, SRK Consulting Ltd (UK); and Graham G. Clow, P.Eng, Chairman, Principal Mining Engineer, RPA Inc. (Canada). In addition, more than 50 exhibitors from 10 different countries will also be showcasing the latest technologies and products related to mining and minerals exploration. The Saudi Mining and Minerals show is being held for the first time, to help plot the Kingdom's path to become a major global player in the industry. The conference features insights from local and international experts who will help explore the massive opportunities within the Kingdom's mining and minerals sector and the extended value chain. His Excellency Ali Al-Naimi, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, will deliver the keynote address and will be joined by important decision-makers and thought leaders, such as Dr Zohair A Nawab, President, Saudi Geological Survey (SGS); and Sultan bin Jamal Shawli, Deputy Minister for Mineral Resources; and Khalid Al-Mudaifer, President and Chief Executive, Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Ma'aden). Among those who have committed to support the show is the Al Raddadi Group, a leading supplier of silica sands based in Saudi Arabia, which considers its participation in Saudi Mining and Minerals as part of its corporate social responsibility strategy as well as an opportunity to increase its brand awareness in the local and international market. "Silica sands have a large number of industrial uses depending on their characteristics. Al Raddadi factory as a key player in the mining industry supply chain, contributes to the Kingdom's economy by serving many industries, including the mining and minerals sector," said Maha Al Yamani, Business Development Manager. The Saudi Mining and Minerals Symposium 2015, jointly organized by MEED Events and Montgomery Star, is supported by Saudi's Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources and the National Industrial Cluster Development Program; as well as Ma'aden, Atheeb Intergraph Saudi Company, Outotec, Ali Salem Al Raddadi Factory, among others." Saudi Specialty Chemical Ind. Co. Ltd., ThyssenKrupp, SRK Consulting, Roscoe Postle Associates, Inc. and The Saudi British Bank. — SG
