ADNOC Drilling announced the integration of the AD-300 rig, the first fully automated, AI-enabled self-propelled jack-up rig in its fleet. The unit was delivered approximately three months ahead of schedule, an advancement that will accelerate offshore operations and bring forward revenue generation associated with the company’s expansion program.
The AD-300 Rig Drives Smart Offshore Drilling
Standing approximately 50 meters tall and weighing close to 2,000 tons, the AD-300 integrates automation, artificial intelligence, and robotics systems aimed at improving operational performance in offshore drilling projects.
Its ability to automatically move between different wells eliminates the need to dismantle the structure during location changes. It also incorporates automated pipe handling systems and AI-based monitoring tools that reduce personnel exposure during operations.
The rig also features a hybrid power system with the possibility of connecting to the electrical grid, which helps improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions associated with the operation.
Digitalization to Optimize Performance
The digital systems installed on the AD-300 generate real-time operational information that facilitates performance optimization and predictive maintenance of equipment.
These capabilities allow for the detection of improvement opportunities before failures occur, increasing rig availability and promoting more stable operations during drilling campaigns.
First Unit of a Six-Rig Program
The AD-300 is the first of six new-generation rigs included in the approximately $1.54 billion contract awarded by ADNOC Offshore between 2024 and 2025.
The units will operate in the artificial islands developed by ADNOC in the United Arab Emirates to support offshore production expansion through faster and more consistent well execution.
The early deployment of this first rig also strengthens ADNOC Drilling’s revenue projection during the second half of 2026 and throughout 2027, as the remaining units of the program continue to be incorporated.
Automation Drives Growth Strategy
ADNOC Drilling CEO, Abdulla Ateya Al Messabi, stated that the integration of the AD-300 represents a new step in incorporating automation, artificial intelligence, and robotics into drilling operations, with improvements in safety, efficiency, and operational consistency.
For her part, Tayba Abdulrahim Al Hashmi, CEO of ADNOC Offshore, highlighted that these rigs will contribute to expanding the company’s production capacity and strengthening the UAE’s energy supply for international markets.
Currently, the AD-301 rig is already in the deployment phase, and the remaining units will be delivered progressively until 2027. With this, ADNOC Drilling aims to consolidate one of the most advanced jack-up rig fleets in the offshore sector, supporting its exploration and production business growth plans.
Source and photo: ADNOC Drilling
