ADNOC Drilling Company PJSC has confirmed a significant contract award valued at $733 million from ADNOC Offshore. This contract is for the supply of three advanced island drilling rigs aimed at supporting operations at the offshore Zakum field, one of the largest oil fields globally.

The new island rigs, to be constructed by Honghua Group (HH), will feature cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence and automation capabilities, enhancing both efficiency and safety. Abdulrahman Abdulla Al Seiari, Chief Executive Officer of ADNOC Drilling, highlighted the importance of this development: “These new island rigs will be the most advanced in the world, embracing the most transformative technology of our generation. Our partnership with HH will amplify the creativity and ingenuity of our industry.”

Scheduled for delivery and operation commencement in 2026, these rigs will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology to perform extended reach drilling (ERD), which is crucial for achieving higher efficiency and reducing operational costs and emissions. The rigs will also feature capabilities for walking between wells, thereby eliminating the need for disassembly during moves, further enhancing operational efficiency.

The rigs are part of a strategic initiative by ADNOC Drilling to support sustainable and efficient drilling operations. They are expected to contribute significantly to the local economy by enabling more effective resource extraction and reducing environmental impact through advanced technology. The total capital expenditure for these rigs is estimated at $210 million, primarily concentrated in 2025.

This contract represents a strategic milestone for ADNOC Drilling, underlining its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the drilling industry. The use of AI and advanced automation in these rigs sets a new standard for the sector, promoting safer and more efficient operations.

The announcement of this contract is a testament to ADNOC Drilling’s accelerated growth journey and its focus on incorporating advanced technology to enhance drilling operations. This initiative not only supports the UAE’s energy goals but also aligns with global efforts towards more sustainable and efficient energy production.

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