Nabors is transforming drilling operations in the Middle East with solutions that digitalise, automate and lower the carbon footprint of drilling operations

At this year’s ADIPEC in Abu Dhabi, Nabors Industries will be showcasing how its technology deployments are driving safer, more responsible, and consistently high performance for its customers.

Nabors continues to lead the global drilling industry by focusing on technological innovation, operational excellence, and safety.

With decades of experience and a strong international footprint, Nabors has been a key player in advancing the energy landscape, particularly in the Middle East.

Nabors is well-positioned and eager to continue supporting the region’s energy ambitions, ensuring that operations are efficient, safer and environmentally responsible.

RECENT WINS: GROWTH THROUGH STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIPS, NEW CONTRACTS & SIGNIFICANT ACQUISITIONS

Nabors recently announced an agreement to acquire Parker Wellbore, significantly expanding its Nabors Drilling Solutions business and solidifying the geographical footprint of its international drilling rig business.

The transaction, estimated to be completed in early 2025, will add a large-scale, high-performance tubular rental and repairs services operations to the Nabors portfolio.

Additionally, Parker’s casing running business complements Nabors’ own tubular services and affords the opportunity to migrate Nabors’ integrated casing model.

Aside from the recent acquisition, Nabors has also secured a series of wins across its eastern hemisphere drilling operations, strengthening its position in multiple key markets and expanding its global footprint.

Nabors’ SmartROS® rig automation system elevating drilling operations

Among their most significant milestones is securing a major contract with the Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) for three ultra-deep 3,000 HP, land drilling rigs.

Nabors has deep roots in Kuwait, with over a decade of successful operations in the country. This history has enabled the company to build a strong, trust-based partnership with the customer.

Equally notable is the re-engagement with Sonatrach in Algeria, where Nabors was recently awarded a four-rig contract with Sonatrach Division Forage.

This campaign marks a proud reunion as the two companies resume operations after a decades-long history of working together prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

With the restart of the Algerian operation, Nabors has been able to support local businesses, provide job opportunities, and deliver training and know-how to the Algerian workforce.

Operations began in the first quarter of 2024, with the fourth rig starting work in the third quarter of 2024.

In the UAE, Nabors secured a contract extension with a major operator, supporting international growth momentum.

Through a recent drilling campaign for the customer, Nabors successfully delivered across performance objectives, including safety, efficiency, and efforts to lower emissions.

Nabors, through its Joint Venture with KazMunayGas (KMG) in the formation of KMG Nabors Drilling Company (KNDC), recently secured a five-year contract extension for its 700-series MAAC (Minimum Area AC) rig, which has been a cornerstone of operations in the region.

The rig achieved zero non-productive time (NPT) during the third quarter of 2024, an impressive accomplishment made possible through Nabors’ advanced drilling technologies and commitment to operational excellence.

Nabors also re-entered the Libyan market through a partnership with a local oilfield service company, deploying its technology and solutions on multiple rigs. Operations began in the third quarter of 2024, with further deployments planned into 2025.

Beyond the Middle East, Nabors’ Rig in Papua New Guinea continues to set new standards for drilling performance.

Following the successful completion of two challenging wells, this rig is now mobilised to one of the most complex wells in the customer’s global portfolio.

Positioned 2,800 m above sea level, the upcoming well presents significant geological and wellbore challenges, requiring state-of-the-art drilling capabilities.

Upgraded with the SmartROS® automation technology and RigCLOUD® digital platform, this 700-series MAAC rig is changing the way wells are drilled in this region, showcasing the next generation of rig automation and drilling technology.

DRIVING AUTOMATION & DIGITALISATION IN DRILLING OPERATIONS

Nabors rig in operation in Algeria

Nabors’ SmartROS® rig automation system and the RigCLOUD® digital platform are further advancing drilling operations by providing real-time data insights and automation capabilities.

These advanced technologies can be scaled on any AC rig, not just Nabors rigs, and boost operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and ensure precise drilling performance, allowing drilling operations to achieve minimum to zero NPT.

Earlier this year, Nabors opened the doors to its new Saudi Arabia headquarters, which hosts a Rigline 24/7™ Center to provide best-in-class customer service and remote operations support for Nabors technology.

As importantly, Nabors was recently awarded a rig automation contract from Saudi Aramco to deploy drilling automation technology and related services.

The contract is significant as it marks the first rig automation project in this market.

EXPANDING EQUIPMENT DEPLOYMENTS IN STRATEGIC MARKETS

Canrig, a division of Nabors, continues to expand its drilling equipment footprint in key markets like Kuwait, Oman, and Turkey by deploying cutting-edge equipment and technology.

This expansion includes a growing presence in offshore drilling operations, showcasing Canrig’s commitment to providing best-in-class solutions across both onshore and offshore environments.

DECARBONISING DRILLING OPERATIONS

Nabors portfolio also includes technologies to lower the carbon intensity of drilling operations.

One such solution is Canrig’s ILLUMIC™ Lighting System which has enabled substantial savings in carbon emissions in the Middle East and Asia.

This approach aligns with the region’s broader goals for sustainability and lower carbon footprints in energy production.

SHOWCASING EXCELLENCE AT ADIPEC 2024

At ADIPEC 2024, Nabors will be highlighting these technologies, significant achievements and more.

Visit the company at Stand 6331, Hall 6, to meet with its experts and learn more about the future of drilling in the Middle East.