Wood Mackenzie at Egypt Mining Forum 2026

With significant geological potential and an underexplored resource base, Egypt is entering a new phase of mining sector development. Investor-focused reforms, modern mining regulations and established infrastructure are supporting efforts to attract exploration and investment, alongside the government’s ambition to increase mining’s contribution to 5% of GDP and establish the sector as a pillar of long-term economic growth.

Returning to Cairo in 2026, the Forum provides a platform for government, investors, project owners and industry leaders to connect around the next phase of mining development. Discussions will focus on the opportunities emerging across exploration and investment, as well as the policy and commercial conditions needed to support project development.

With the Arabian Nubian Shield offering significant exploration potential, the event will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange perspectives on the region’s mining outlook and the role of capital, policy and projects in unlocking its future potential.

Monday 28 September | 15:20–16:00

Strengthening the Middle East and North Africa's role as a critical minerals corridor

Moderator: Wael Jaber - Vice President, Mining & Metals, Consulting, Wood Mackenzie

Overview: How can MENA become a connected critical minerals corridor linking exploration, processing, capital and export markets? This panel explores the region’s mineral potential, infrastructure and investment landscape, and whether greater regional integration can translate into a genuine commercial opportunity.

Tuesday 29 September | 09:00–10:00

Ministerial Roundtable

Moderator: Patrick Barnes - Vice President, Head of Metals & Mining Consulting

Overview: What will it take for Egypt to turn mining reforms and its geological potential into sustained investment and economic growth? Government leaders will discuss progress to date, priorities for the next three to five years, and what more is needed to attract capital, accelerate exploration and build downstream value.

Tuesday 29 September | 10:00–10:40

Empowering junior mining companies to drive early-stage discovery growth

Moderator: Wael Jaber - Vice President, Mining & Metals, Consulting, Wood Mackenzie

Overview: Junior mining companies play a critical role in taking on the exploration risk that can unlock new discoveries. This panel examines the realities of exploring in Egypt and the wider Arabian-Nubian Shield, including access to capital, licensing, data and the conditions needed to support junior-led growth.

Tuesday 29 September | 10:40–11:20

Building bankable mining projects: Transitioning from exploration to development and production

Moderator: Patrick Barnes - Vice President, Head of Metals & Mining Consulting

Overview: What does it take to turn a mineral discovery into a financeable, producing project? This panel explores the technical, infrastructure, legal and financing requirements needed to move successful exploration projects from discovery towards development and production.

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