Zuhair Nawab: from memories of Jeddah to earth sciences and the transfer of knowledge
Dr Zuhair bin Abdul Hafiz Nawab's interview begins with childhood memories of Jeddah and moves between Al Khobar and Makkah before turning to the curiosity that led him to geology. He connects the discipline with fieldwork, exploration and understanding the Earth and its resources, as well as its relationship with development and the economy.
The conversation revisits education in Saudi Arabia and abroad, technical and administrative responsibilities, work in the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, and leadership of the Saudi Geological Survey. His reflections on the Survey emphasize scientific capabilities, information, seismic monitoring and geological hazards in support of decision-makers, investors and society.
Nawab describes mining as a connected system running from exploration and assessment to processing, manufacturing and value chains, rather than ore extraction alone. Accurate, accessible geological information, transparency, people and technology are presented as foundations for developing the sector and its domestic contribution.
In leadership, he emphasizes integrity, knowledge, listening and responsibility for decisions, while recognizing that tools change with data and technology. His message to younger Saudis is to combine scientific knowledge with technical skills and lifelong learning, while retaining their values and sense of belonging.
The closing theme is the transfer of knowledge: sharing experience with younger generations so that its value outlasts a particular position. This feature is therefore presented as an interview with a national earth-sciences figure, without inventing a commercial company affiliation or an unsubstantiated current executive role.
National Day 96 · 2026 · 170–178
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Source: Ru’yat Watan — Saudi National Day 96 Edition. Original pages are preserved unchanged.
