Artificial Intelligence Moves Deeper Into UAE Oil & Gas Operations
The UAE’s oil and gas industry is accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence as ADNOC expands the use of advanced digital technologies across its upstream operations.
In August 2026, ADNOC announced the deployment of an AI platform developed with SLB across more than 120 drilling rigs. The initiative is designed to improve drilling performance, operational efficiency and decision-making across ADNOC’s upstream activities.
Transforming Drilling Operations
AI can analyse large volumes of operational data and help identify patterns that may otherwise be difficult to detect in real time.
For drilling operations, this can support areas such as:
- Real-time operational monitoring
- Drilling optimisation
- Predictive analysis
- Equipment performance
- Faster technical decision-making
- Improved operational efficiency
The increasing integration of AI demonstrates how digitalisation is becoming an important component of modern oil and gas operations.
Building a More Technology-Driven Energy Sector
For the UAE, the adoption of AI in upstream operations goes beyond individual efficiency improvements. It supports the country’s broader ambition to establish Abu Dhabi as a technology-driven energy hub.
Digital technologies can help energy companies manage increasingly complex operations while improving productivity and asset performance.
The Future of Digital Oil & Gas
As AI capabilities continue to develop, their application across exploration, drilling, production, maintenance and energy trading is likely to expand.
ADNOC’s latest initiative demonstrates the growing intersection between energy and artificial intelligence, positioning technology as an increasingly important part of the UAE’s oil and gas strategy.