Transforming Well-Construction Operations in the Middle East with Advanced Rig Automation

Abstract This paper examines the benefits of collaboration between a Rig Contractor and a Service Company to accelerate the automation of well-construction operations, focusing on deployments in the Middle East. By showcasing implementations in Iraq, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and other strategic locations, it emphasizes the regional relevance and operational value of these partnerships for optimizing drilling performance and efficiency. The paper details the integration of a Rig Automation Platform and external digital solutions into diverse drilling projects. It covers rigorous validation on a training rig, modular automation upgrades to commercial rigs, and on-site commissioning. A structured deployment strategy, supported by standardized procedures and data-driven planning, ensures interoperability and consistency across a varied rig fleet. The discussion highlights key methodologies and compares achieved performance metrics to existing benchmarks to demonstrate tangible improvements. Deployments in Iraq and Oman showcase measurable improvements in drilling performance, operational consistency, and safety, driven by automation. These solutions standardize processes, reduce risks, and create a feedback loop for continuous optimization across projects. Key technologies include Drill-a-Stand automation, automated directional drilling, recipe transparency, and data analytics, all integrated seamlessly into the digital ecosystems of both companies. The collaborative framework sets a new benchmark for innovation in the region, illustrating how digital solutions can augment human optimization workflows and evolve drilling recipes to meet operational challenges. Actionable insights from these implementations provide valuable guidance for industry practitioners seeking to leverage automation for enhanced efficiency. The paper illustrates results across three rigs operating with a single automation system interfacing with two different rig controls. From the 14 wells analyzed across the three rigs, eight wells were drilled with automation. The use of automation helped achieve an overall reduction in weight-to-weight time of ~43% in the vertical section and ~34% in the lateral with consistent results across all rigs. This paper offers a detailed exploration of the technical and operational integration of AI-powered automation between business entities. By addressing the unique challenges of the Middle East, it underscores how collaborative partnerships, and advanced AI can revolutionize regional well-construction operations, setting new benchmarks for efficiency and innovation in the petroleum industry.