Advancing Sustainable Offshore Circular Economy in the Middle East: Pathways to Net-Zero and Role of Advanced Digital Technologies

Abstract The Middle East’s expanding offshore industry faces a critical need for sustainable end-of-life asset management, moving beyond traditional disposal methods. Advanced digital technologies, such as AI, optimization algorithms, and IoT devices, offer a pathway to a circular economy for offshore infrastructure, particularly in steel recycling. Current decommissioning practices often lack transparency, leading to environmental impacts. Integrating these technologies optimizes resource recovery and minimizes waste. A UK North Sea case study illustrates strategies to address decommissioning challenges, while an EU study demonstrates the feasibility of a circularity approach, quantifying significant CO2 emission reductions. These models provide the Middle East with opportunities to adopt transparent, traceable, and sustainable asset management practices. By embracing advanced digital technologies and circular economy principles, the region can reduce environmental impacts, meet Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) targets, and unlock economic benefits, contributing to net-zero ambitions and a sustainable offshore future.