#Sun Peak Metals Moves Forward with Exploration Projects in Saudi Arabia
Sun Peak Metals Corp. has announced significant advancements in its exploration program across its wholly-owned portfolio in Saudi Arabia. With multiple projects undertaken in the first half of 2026, the company has completed its initial round of diamond drilling on two key sites, paving the way for ongoing analysis and potential future discoveries.
The firm successfully executed drilling operations at the Safra Main and Halahila Main projects, where they drilled a total of 3,764 metres across 23 holes. Initial findings indicate the presence of sulphide mineralization, which is crucial in assessing the value of these targets. Laboratory analysis of 961 drill core samples has been submitted, with results anticipated in late August 2026.
Sun Peak's exploration strategy involves a disciplined approach to advancing its mineral targets throughout the Arabian-Nubian Shield. The company has employed various techniques including geological mapping, soil and rock geochemistry, as well as airborne and ground-based geophysical surveys to refine its target identification process.
Recently, the company completed 1,345 line-kilometres of fixed-wing time-domain airborne electromagnetic surveying at the Al Miyah project, accompanied by gravity surveys that covered significant areas at prospective targets like Hishashat.
At the newly acquired Jabal Al Asad project, Sun Peak has also conducted extensive geological surveys and sampling. This initiative included a gravity survey encompassing 637 stations, which has helped in mapping out an extensive VMS-style gossan. Follow-up electromagnetic surveys are ongoing to further delineate potential drill sites.
The company has outlined plans to continue its drilling operations at Al Miyah in Q4 2026 while building upon its exploration activities across all key sites.
Despite making substantial progress, Sun Peak Metals remains aware of the geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East, which could impact its operations. The company's due diligence measures are in place to ensure the safety of its personnel and the continuity of its exploration activities. They are actively engaging risk assessment professionals to monitor conditions and manage potential challenges.
Sun Peak Metals has recently advanced multiple projects in Saudi Arabia as part of a systematic exploration programme. This includes geological mapping, rock and soil geochemistry, ground and airborne geophysics, and maiden diamond drilling at several targets. Notably, they completed drilling campaigns at the Safra Main and Halahila Main projects, producing significant findings. However, they have not yet received assay results, which are pending and a critical factor in determining the success of these activities.
The maiden drilling campaigns at Safra Main and Halahila Main were completed on schedule and under budget, with a total of 23 holes drilled across both sites. The drilling intersected sulphide mineralisation, although the assay results are still pending, expected in late August 2026. Without these results, it is not possible to assess the overall success of these campaigns or the economic viability of the targets.
The Arabian-Nubian Shield is significant for Sun Peak Metals as it hosts numerous volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS), intrusion-related, and orogenic gold systems, making it a prospective area for mineral exploration. The Company holds 13 exploration licences totalling 1,072 km² in this region. However, the concentration of geological potential also implies competition and geological complexities that could present challenges.
Sun Peak Metals continues to monitor regional geopolitical and security developments, particularly in the Middle East, to safeguard its personnel and operations. Although there has not been any reported impact on their activities in Saudi Arabia, underlying regional conflicts could present unforeseen operational stresses, which the Company needs to navigate carefully to ensure safety and continuity.
Sun Peak's focus on regions such as Saudi Arabia and Ethiopia reflects its strategy to target high-quality exploration prospects, leveraging areas known for significant mineral wealth. While this could potentially lead to valuable discoveries, it also exposes the Company to the risks associated with political instability and varying regulations in these countries which could impact project timelines and operational capabilities.
Initial assay results from the completed drill core samples at the Safra Main and Halahila Main projects are expected in late August 2026. Additionally, further exploration activities are planned for the Al Miyah Project, with drilling scheduled for Q4 2026. Timeliness in receiving assay results and conducting further exploration will be crucial for the advancement of these projects.
Sun Peak Metals currently holds 13 exploration licences in Saudi Arabia, covering a total of 1,072 km². The Company has also applied for two additional exploration licences, covering approximately 200 km². The success of these applications could enhance their exploration capabilities but is subject to regulatory approval and associated risks.
The scientific and technical information in Sun Peak’s communications is reviewed and approved by Arron Albano, P.Geo., the Exploration Manager. This process is crucial for ensuring compliance with industry standards, specifically National Instrument 43-101, but it does not eliminate inherent uncertainties in exploration outcomes.