Lithium Potential in Saudi Arabia – An Initial Assessment

Abstract Lithium (Li) is a key element in the global energy transition, playing a vital role in low-carbon energy storage systems, particularly in batteries for electric vehicles (EVs). This study provides the first comprehensive geological assessment of lithium potential in Saudi Arabia by examining the natural occurrence of lithium in igneous and sedimentary rocks and the processes that lead to its enrichment in subsurface brines. The results suggest that the west coast rift basins and the Arabian Shield hold significant potential, while the eastern sedimentary basin appears to be less favorable. Lithium naturally occurs in felsic igneous rocks, especially in their glass and micaceous components, and in sedimentary rocks derived from them, such as micaceous sandstones. Enrichment of lithium in pore waters may result from two primary mechanisms: (1) Water–rock interaction at elevated temperatures (>120°C), which leaches lithium from host minerals into formation fluids; and (2) Evaporative concentration of seawater, where lithium remains in the residual brine during progressive evaporite precipitation. The felsic igneous rocks of the Arabian Shield and syn-rift sedimentary formations along the Saudi west coast show strong potential as lithium sources. In addition, evaporative processes in the region that lead to the precipitation of thick salt deposits further contribute to lithium enrichment in subsurface brines. Although current data is limited, the study identifies the west coast rift basins as the most promising areas for lithium-rich deep brines suitable for Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE). Lithium originates from the leaching of shield sediments in the deep rift basins and from leftover brines associated with the km-thick Miocene evaporates deposited in the Red Sea rift. In contrast, the Eastern Arabian Basin shows limited potential for lithium-rich brines. Evaporites are limited to a thin gypsum layer in the Jurassic Hith and older (Precambrian) deeply buried Hormuz salts, while clastic material eroded from the shield is shallow and too proximal to the outcrops for significant contributions to basinal brines. This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of lithium potential in Saudi Arabia, offering valuable insights into sustainable resource development and future exploration opportunities in the Kingdom.