Nuclear Competition Expands; Riyadh Says It Plans to Enrich Uranium and Sell Yellowcake

Saudi Arabia intends to increase its revenue from the sale of minerals, including uranium. Abdulaziz bin Salman, the country's Minister of Energy, announced this at a conference in Dhahran on Monday, January 15. According to Abdulaziz bin Salman, Riyadh plans to produce and sell yellowcake alongside 'enriching uranium.' Yellowcake is used in the production of nuclear reactor fuel rods. Although this intermediate material does not pose significant radiation risks, its preparation and storage require a high level of expertise and precision. Saudi Arabia's nuclear fuel production program from its domestic uranium is still in its infancy and at early stages, but Riyadh aims to reach the uranium enrichment stage by developing this program; a matter that is highly sensitive given the use of enriched uranium in nuclear weapons. Saudi Arabia claims it intends to diversify its energy resources solely through nuclear power. However, it is unclear if this is the whole story. Seven years ago, Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, claimed that if Iran, as its regional rival, were to acquire nuclear weapons, Riyadh would also pursue the development of such weapons. Since Riyadh currently lacks an active nuclear reactor, oversight of its nuclear activities is conducted under the Small Quantities Protocol (SQP). This agreement exempts countries without advanced nuclear programs from extensive oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), including periodic inspections and mandatory reporting of activities. Saudi Arabia previously announced that it intends to join the IAEA's regular safeguards by the end of 2024, moving away from minimal oversight, indicating the country's serious intent to develop its nuclear program. The United Arab Emirates is the first Arab country to launch a multi-unit nuclear power plant. Abu Dhabi has committed not to pursue uranium enrichment or the reprocessing of spent fuel from this plant.