Dubai: Gulf drilling expansion is shaping the next phase of growth for ADNOC Drilling as the company targets larger market share in Oman and Kuwait. Executives say Gulf drilling expansion will rely on technology investments, joint ventures, and deeper regional partnerships. At the same time, Gulf drilling expansion reflects a broader strategy to strengthen oilfield services and digital capabilities.
Leaders at ADNOC Drilling confirmed that Oman and Kuwait sit at the center of upcoming plans. Management aims to scale operations through acquisitions and technology-focused deals. The company also plans to expand its integrated services model across both markets.
Chief Financial Officer Youssef Salem said the firm will build on recent transactions under its Enersol platform. He explained that new deals will add advanced technologies and widen the company’s project portfolio. In addition, he stressed that joint ventures remain essential to every expansion step.
Meanwhile, Kuwait offers significant production growth potential. The country plans to raise output capacity toward four million barrels per day. It also operates more than 200 onshore rigs, making it one of the region’s largest drilling markets. Executives believe this environment creates strong demand for integrated drilling services.
Similarly, Oman presents steady opportunities. The country runs close to 100 onshore rigs and hosts several operating companies. Its mature upstream sector supports both national and international players. As a result, ADNOC Drilling sees room to secure long-term contracts and expand service offerings.
Technology continues to drive performance improvements. Automation and artificial intelligence now play a larger role in daily drilling operations. Salem said these tools helped the company complete wells faster than planned in 2025. He added that digital systems improved efficiency and strengthened financial returns.
Furthermore, the company reported a return on equity of 35 percent last year. Management linked that performance to cost discipline and operational automation. Executives also said integrated digital platforms simplified workflows and accelerated decision-making.
Oilfield services have emerged as the fastest-growing division. Emri Zeineldin, Senior Vice President of Oilfield Services, said the segment has grown into a $1.5 billion business since 2019. He noted that innovation and integration fueled this rapid expansion.
By combining rigs, services, and digital systems under one structure, the company reduced complexity. Leaders said this approach unlocked measurable performance gains. Consequently, oilfield services now contribute strongly to revenue and operational stability.
Despite global market volatility, ADNOC Drilling reported uninterrupted operations. Salem said the company achieved ten consecutive quarters of earnings outperformance. He emphasized that no rig experienced disruption during that period.
Looking ahead, management will pursue selective geographic growth. Leaders plan to focus on stable markets with secure contracts and reliable payment structures. At the same time, the company aims to support multiple energy resources, including oil, gas, and geothermal projects.
Overall, the strategy highlights a shift toward technology-driven solutions and regional leadership. Through disciplined expansion and digital innovation, ADNOC Drilling seeks to secure a stronger foothold in Oman and Kuwait.
