An area of 10,000 sq. km between Bi'r Idimah and Wadi Haraman in southern Saudi Arabia was investigated for mineral deposits during the period May 8, 1965, to June 27, 1965. At least 25 different minerals and industrial rocks occur in the area, but of these materials only asbestos seems to have a real possibility for industrial development. Twenty occurrences of asbestos were found around the Higera gold mine and between Hamdah and Bi'r El Marwahs A favorable area for asbestos exists north and east of Tathlith, but none was discovered there. It is recommended that the Hamdah-Bi'r El Marwah area be examined in detail, and the Higera and Tathlith areas receive reconnaissance studies for asbestos. Asbestos is a high-value commodity which can be processed by air separation, thereby freeing its benefitiation from dependence on water. Examination of the asbestos deposits would have as a by-product an appraisal of the resources of soapstone, anthophyllite, talc, vermiculite, chromite, calcite, gold, and copper in the three asbestos districts.
Thirty-six occurrences of marble were found in the area. Several have favorable characteristics for industrial or architectural use.
One ancient mine, the Ishaaib (19°15'N.x 43°40'E.), may contain copper.
