First of six automated rigs delivered ahead of schedule under $1.54 billion offshore contract.
Dubai: ADNOC Drilling has delivered and accepted AD-300, its first AI-enabled, fully automated walking island rig, nearly three months ahead of schedule, enabling an earlier start to revenue generation under a six-rig offshore drilling programme.
The rig is the first of six next-generation island rigs being deployed under a $1.54 billion drilling services contract awarded by ADNOC Offshore in 2024–2025. The remaining rigs are scheduled for delivery through 2027, with AD-301 already in deployment.
Standing 50 metres high—roughly the height of a 15-storey building—and weighing around 2,000 tonnes, AD-300 is designed to operate on ADNOC’s artificial islands offshore Abu Dhabi. Its walking capability enables the rig to move between well locations without being dismantled, reducing downtime and accelerating well delivery.
Faster offshore drilling
ADNOC Drilling said the rig integrates automation, artificial intelligence, digital systems and hybrid power capabilities, with the option to connect to the grid for more efficient, lower-emission operations.
The technology features automated pipe handling and AI-enabled monitoring systems designed to reduce personnel exposure in complex operating environments, while enhancing safety and improving operational consistency.
“The delivery of AD-300 marks a step change in how we execute large-scale, technology-enabled energy development,” said Abdulla Ateya Al Messabi, CEO of ADNOC Drilling. “By integrating automation, artificial intelligence and robotics at scale, we are enhancing safety, improving efficiency and delivering more consistent, predictable performance.”
Six-rig programme
The early delivery gives ADNOC Drilling a head start on the wider island rig programme, which is expected to support growth in the second half of 2026 and into 2027 as the remaining rigs are phased into operations.
The company said the rigs will support ADNOC’s upstream growth plans and production capacity expansion, while real-time data systems will enable operational insights for performance monitoring and predictive maintenance.
“At a time when the world needs reliable energy at scale, the UAE stands ready to supply global customers,” said Tayba Abdulrahim Al Hashmi, CEO of ADNOC Offshore. “AD-300 and our next-generation island rigs are accelerating our growth, expanding ADNOC’s production capacity and delivering long-term value for our stakeholders and the nation.”
Once all six rigs are delivered, ADNOC Drilling said the fleet will rank among the most advanced island rig fleets globally, strengthening its role in ADNOC’s upstream expansion plans.
