Shaib Marqan Survey Identifies Seven Fault Systems and Four Gold Targets
Resource Minerals International has identified four priority gold target zones at its Shaib Marqan Project in Saudi Arabia following a detailed ground magnetic survey, setting the stage for a 5,000-metre drilling campaign in 2026.
- Completion of 91.88 km² high-resolution ground magnetic survey
- Identification of seven major fault systems controlling gold mineralisation
- Strong correlation between magnetic anomalies and high-grade surface gold assays up to 40.35 g/t
- Four priority target zones (Z1–Z4) defined for immediate exploration
- Planned rock chip sampling and 5,000-metre drilling program commencing Q3 2026
Strategic Survey Advances Saudi Gold Exploration
Resource Minerals International Ltd (ASX:RMI) has taken a significant step forward in its Saudi Arabian gold exploration efforts with the completion of a comprehensive ground magnetic survey at the Shaib Marqan Project. Covering nearly 92 square kilometres, this high-resolution survey has delineated multiple structural corridors and fault-controlled zones that are prospective for gold mineralisation.
The survey, conducted in collaboration with CNNC Geological Science and Technology Co. Ltd, mapped seven major fault systems within the project area. These structural features are critical as they often serve as conduits for mineralising fluids, making them prime targets for gold deposits. Notably, the magnetic anomalies identified align closely with previously reported surface gold assays, which included impressive grades up to 40.35 grams per tonne.
Defining Priority Targets for Drilling
From the geophysical data and integration with historical geochemical and geological information, Resource Minerals has defined four priority target zones, labelled Z1 through Z4. These zones represent structurally complex areas where gold mineralisation is most likely to be found, guided by the intersection of major fault systems and lithological boundaries.
Executive Chairman Asimwe Kabunga highlighted the importance of these findings, stating that the survey has transitioned the project from broad regional exploration to focused, high-priority targets. This refined targeting is expected to enhance the efficiency and success rate of upcoming exploration activities.
Next Steps: Field Validation and Drilling
Building on the survey results, Resource Minerals plans to initiate detailed geological mapping and rock chip sampling across the priority zones in the second quarter of 2026. These activities will provide ground truth to the geophysical interpretations and help refine drill targets.
A first phase drilling program of approximately 5,000 metres is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2026. This program aims to test the subsurface continuity of the identified structures and assess the potential for economically viable gold mineralisation. Supplementary geophysical surveys, including induced polarisation and resistivity, will also be conducted to better understand the vertical extent of mineralisation.
Context Within a Promising Geological Setting
The Shaib Marqan Project is situated within the Arabian Shield’s Ar Rayn Terrane, a region known for hosting a variety of mineral systems including volcanogenic massive sulphide deposits and orogenic gold. The project area’s complex structural geology, dominated by multiple fault zones and intrusive bodies, provides a fertile environment for gold mineralisation.
Resource Minerals’ methodical approach, combining modern geophysical techniques with historical data and surface sampling, positions the company well to unlock the project’s potential. The upcoming drilling campaign will be a critical test of the targets defined by this latest survey.
Bottom Line?
As Resource Minerals moves from geophysical targeting to drilling, the market will watch closely for confirmation of gold mineralisation that could reshape the company’s Saudi Arabian portfolio.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the upcoming drilling confirm the high-grade gold potential suggested by surface assays and magnetic anomalies?
- How might the structural complexity of the Shaib Marqan Project influence the scale and continuity of mineralisation?
- What are the implications of these targets for Resource Minerals’ broader strategy in the Arabian-Nubian Shield region?
