Global trends and untapped potential of critical minerals for a sustainable future in the Arabian Peninsula

The advancement in technology such as renewable energy systems, satellite missions, and others, has led to the exploration of new raw materials termed as critical minerals. The energy transition in particularly the development and production of electric vehicles, wind turbines, and semiconductors needs critical minerals like lithium, cobalt and nickel, but their supply chain is currently present in the most vulnerable locations, posing a threat to the world markets. For instance, over 70 % of cobalt originates in the Democratic Republic of Congo, while China dominates processing 80 % of critical minerals. This article takes into account global distribution, supply risk, and eco-friendly extraction of critical minerals, with special emphasis on the unutilized potential of the Arabian Peninsula. Arabian Shield (a Precambrian geological formation extending across Saudi Arabia and Oman) is host to significant deposits of phosphates, copper, gold, and critical minerals. Supported by strategic visions like Saudi Vision 2030, the area is poised to diversify the hydrocarbon-driven economy through sustainable mineral development. This article reviews the role of critical minerals in energy transition with a focus on cleaner methods, and concerns related to their global supply chains. Critical mineral potential of the Arabian Peninsula is also reviewed about the next-generation. Mineral potential of the Arabian Peninsula based on next-generation exploration technologies like AI and remote sensing. Examples of successful sustainable mining operations (e.g., Ma'aden phosphate projects) and policy measures for reducing environmental and social impacts. Through integrating geology, economics, and logistics, this review highlights the Arabian Peninsula's capacity to secure global mineral supply chains in a manner that is in line with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.