A Visionary Leader in Sovereign Mining Investment

Mattar Al Badi, CEO of Minerals Development Oman (MDO), is playing a pivotal role in advancing Oman’s mining sector and positioning minerals as a key contributor to the country’s economic diversification.

With more than 15 years of experience at Vale in Oman, including serving as Chief Operating Officer, Al Badi brings extensive expertise in large-scale operations, strategic planning, investment, safety, logistics, and organizational leadership to his role at MDO.

At MDO, he leads a sovereign mining investment platform backed by the Oman Investment Authority, overseeing 14 concession areas covering approximately 24,000 km² and an expanding international portfolio across Africa and the Middle East.

His leadership encompasses major initiatives including the Mazoon Copper Project, the Shuwaimiya gypsum and limestone project, Naqa Salt, and international opportunities in copper, gold, and critical minerals. MDO is also developing the Oman Minerals Trading Company to strengthen the organization’s position across commodity markets.

“We are a sovereign investment platform that operates like a mining company.”

From Operations to National Mining Leadership

Al Badi’s career reflects a steady progression from operational roles at Vale to senior executive leadership. At Vale, he managed complex port and industrial operations, substantial budgets, large teams, and initiatives focused on safety, environmental performance, Omanization, and continuous improvement.

His engineering background from Sultan Qaboos University, combined with an Executive MBA from HEC Paris and executive programs at IMD, Babson College, and INSEAD, has strengthened his ability to connect technical expertise with strategic business leadership.

“The mining sector is on course to become Oman’s third economic pillar after oil and gas.”

Through disciplined investment, strategic partnerships, and large-scale project development, Mattar Al Badi is contributing to Oman’s ambition to build a competitive and sustainable mining industry while unlocking greater value from the Sultanate’s mineral resources.

Icons Oman Recognition

Icons Oman recognizes Mattar Al Badi for his leadership in Oman’s mining sector and his contribution to advancing strategic investment, operational excellence, and the development of a stronger national mining ecosystem.