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PC Oman Ventures Ltd (PCOVL), a subsidiary of PETRONAS, has signed a Concession Agreement with the Government of the Sultanate of Oman and OQ Exploration and Production Batinah Offshore LLC (OQEP) for the exploration of oil and gas in Block 18

Block 18 is a large offshore exploration area located in Northeast Oman, spanning more than 21,000 sq km and offering significant frontier exploration potential across diverse geological settings, from shallow to ultra-deep water. Under the concession agreement, PCOVL will become operator of Block 18 in partnership with OQEP.

PCOVL has been active in the Sultanate of Oman since 2018 and currently holds a participating interest in Block 61.  This collaboration builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between PETRONAS and OQEP in October 2025, strengthening the strategic partnership between both companies and reinforcing PETRONAS’ long-term presence in the Sultanate of Oman. 

The partnership supports PETRONAS’ aspiration to enhance its competitive upstream portfolio by aligning its offshore exploration capability with OQEP’s regional expertise, laying the foundation for a mutually beneficial venture.

"Building on our technical strengths and successes, PETRONAS continues to expand its exploration activities into new frontiers. Through our innovative exploration approaches and OQEP’s basin expertise, we aim to jointly unlock the potential of Block 18, contributing to Oman’s long-term energy security. The addition of Block 18 aligns with our commitment to disciplined portfolio expansion, providing strategic optionality across our international portfolio," said Mohd Redhani Abdul Rahman, vice president of International Assets, PETRONAS.

At CERAWeek, taking place in Houston from 23-27 March, Shaikh Nawaf S. Al-Sabah, deputy chairman and CEO of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) reaffirmed progress on key strategic projects, including Project Seif and Project Peregrine, despite the current situation

Project Seif involves the development of Kuwait’s recently-discovered offshore fields, in which Kuwait is inviting IOCs to participate, and will ensure “additional production resilience and capacity to help meet production targets in the future,” Shaikh Al-Sabah said in his virtual address. Kuwait aims to lift production capacity to 4mn bpd by 2035 from around 2.5mn bpd currently.

“This is something that is of paramount importance in Kuwait, it is a project with real international scope and we’re moving ahead with this,” he confirmed.

“At the same time, on a shorter timescale, we have Project Peregrine, which is the project by which we lease and lease back our pipelines,” he continued. “This will be the largest single foreign investment in Kuwait.”

He added that the principal partners and investors had confirmed that they are still keen for the project to go ahead, and to continue to participate.

“This is a recognition that Kuwait remains open for business through these attacks,” he said, in reference to Iran’s drone attacks on the country's critical infrastructure facilities.

Shaikh Al-Sabah highlighted the global implications of any disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, noting its “vital concern” to the world economy, with around 75% of Asia’s oil and 83% of its LNG passing through it. 

“It’s a domino effect,” he said. ”The costs of this war don’t stay in geographical lines in this region, they extend all the way through the supply chain.” He noted the impact on petrochemical supply chains and even food security, given the use of polyethylene in food packaging. He added that most of the world’s urea fertiliser comes from the Gulf.

Echoing other Gulf energy leaders, he said, “We are outraged by this attack on us. These attacks are no just on the Gulf, but are holding the world’s economy hostage. This is an attack on our sovereignty in Kuwait, on our people, and on our facilities. This act is unjustified and illegal by all standards."

Aramco, Honeywell and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) are collaborating to scale up the development of Crude-to-Chemicals (CTC) technology in a bid to maximise the value of crude oil and reduce costs associated with CTC conversion 

The new CTC pathway will entail converting crude oil directly into light olefins and other high-demand chemicals, resulting in improved fuel efficiency, carbon utilisation, and process economics—allowing for more efficient and cost-effective production at scale.

The collaboration aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by helping to advance economic diversification, build national research and technology capabilities, and strengthen the Kingdom’s position in the global chemicals market, combining academia and industry expertise to accelerate technology development and national capabilities.

Dr. Ali A. Al-Meshari, Aramco senior vice president of technology oversight & coordination, said, “This collaboration with Honeywell UOP and KAUST furthers Aramco's efforts to drive innovation and shape the future of petrochemicals. By harnessing the power of cutting-edge technologies, we aim to enhance energy efficiency and unlock increased value from every barrel of crude. This novel Crude-to-Chemicals process is aligned with our vision of supporting the global transition towards cleaner, high-performance chemical production. Moreover, this initiative demonstrates our focus on contributing to the growth of a vibrant ecosystem, where the deployment of innovative technologies can create lasting value for our stakeholders, our communities, and the environment.”

Rajesh Gattupalli, Honeywell UOP president, added, “This agreement marks a defining moment in our strategic collaboration with Aramco and KAUST – and in the global evolution of Crude-to-Chemicals technology. With Honeywell UOP’s deep expertise in catalytic process design and commercial scale-up, we’re well positioned to drive this innovation forward.”

KNF, a leader in diaphragm pumps, has introduced four new intelligent pumps for flow, pressure, and vacuum control as well as versatile dosing

For liquid metering applications, KNF has developed the FMS-FC 1.400 diaphragm pump with integrated flow control , which uses a precise flow sensor and ensures precise, accurate, and stable liquid delivery. It achieves a maximum flow rate of 3.4 l/min, a maximum pressure of 6 bar (rel.) and offers a maximum suction height of 3 mH2O.

The FD 1.200 with Versatile Dosing delivers precise and repeatable volumes for demanding applications, using advanced stepper motor technology and actively actuated valves. It offers a maximum flow rate of 40 ml/min, a maximum pressure of 6 bar (rel.), and a suction height of at least 4.5 mH₂O. Compact, chemically resistant, and customisable, it sets a new standard for accurate dosing.

The new MGP 75 diaphragm gas pump with intelligent pressure control maintains precise and consistent gas pressure even under changing conditions. Using the latest KNF motor technology, it achieves a maximum flow rate of 78 l/min, a maximum pressure of 1 bar (rel.), and a maximum vacuum down to 25 mbar (abs.).

The new micro vacuum pump NVC 830 maintains exact vacuum levels in demanding environmentsusing intelligent vacuum control This compact pump delivers a maximum flow rate of 4.7 l/min and a maximum vacuum down to 55 mbar (abs.).

Special features

Each pump integrates modern sensor technology and proprietary motor control to maintain exact setpoints, even under dynamic conditions like changing pressure or media temperature. The pumps can operate autonomously or can be controlled via analog signals such as control voltage. For use in complex systems, the pumps also support modern communication protocols like UART, enabling seamless integration into smart environments.

Based on a modular design, the pumps can be customised quickly and cost-effectively. Options include material selection, electrical and line connections, and digital settings such as output setpoint, ramp-up speed or maximum motor speed limits, depending on the pump. This flexibility makes the pumps an ideal choice for critical applications in industrial processes.

In the oil and gas industry, where every second counts and every decision impacts profitability and safety, robust security is not just a luxury – it's a necessity

From protecting critical assets to safeguarding human lives, security systems must meet the highest standards of reliability and performance.

Pelco, a leader in video security, is uniquely positioned to address the challenges faced by oil and gas companies in the Middle East, offering a fresh perspective on how to optimise security systems seamlessly. With our upcoming online event, we invite you to explore how Pelco can help tackle worker safety, asset protection and operational efficiency in this complex industry.

Addressing oil and gas challenges head-on

Oil and gas operations in the Middle East span harsh deserts, sprawling refineries and high-risk offshore environments. Physical, environmental and digital threats are converging, and security systems must evolve to meet these overlapping demands. Our upcoming online event will focus on three critical areas where Pelco's expertise can make a difference:

1. Improve worker safety and HSE compliance

Ensuring worker safety is both a moral responsibility and a regulatory imperative. Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) compliance is a top priority for oil and gas operations. Pelco's advanced portfolio is designed to help you meet these standards.

Edge-based analytics and intelligent video security can be valuable tools in supporting site safety. These systems can help detect safety incidents, such as slips or falls, especially in areas where oily surfaces, heat or dust create additional hazards. When incidents occur in remote areas, automated detection can prompt faster intervention, thereby closing the gap between the event and the response.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) compliance is another key safety concern. High temperatures in the Middle East can lead to discomfort, and in some cases, workers may be tempted to remove protective gear, such as hard hats or vests, for temporary relief. In this case, AI-enabled video analytics can help identify instances of non-compliance, enabling safety teams to address the issue before it becomes a liability.

Zone-based behavioural analytics can help detect when someone enters a restricted or hazardous area or remains in a dangerous zone longer than necessary. For example, loitering detection near flare stacks or storage tanks can support situational awareness and proactive incident mitigation.

2. Improve security and asset protection

From refineries in the desert to offshore rigs in corrosive marine environments, your assets operate under pressure, so your security systems must withstand these harsh conditions. In areas where explosive gases or dust particles may be present, even basic equipment can pose risks. That’s why choosing video solutions built for hazardous environments is critical.

ExSite Enhanced cameras, featuring 316L stainless steel construction and certifications such as ATEX and IECEx, are designed for use in hazardous atmospheres. Whether it’s observing pipeline manifolds, wellheads or chemical storage areas, these systems deliver dependable performance in high-risk environments. In corrosive coastal locations, such as LNG terminals or offshore rigs, Pelco’s anti-corrosion models withstand salt spray, humidity and chemical exposure without compromising visibility.

For perimeter defence, long-range Silent Sentinel cameras give security teams early warning of approaching threats, detecting vehicles, vessels or drones from kilometres away in fog, darkness or dust. These systems are especially valuable for remote desert pipelines or unstaffed offshore installations, where rapid detection is critical to prevent disruptions.

3. Minimise downtime and maximise uptime

Every minute of downtime impacts revenue. For oil and gas operations, the cost of unplanned outages is measured in millions of dollars. With Pelco, your video security can become an operational asset.
Radiometric thermal cameras can detect overheating in transformers, compressors and electrical panels, allowing teams to take action before equipment failure occurs. At the same time, Pelco’s camera image health analytics help ensure your video infrastructure is always performing at its best. Our cameras automatically detect issues such as lens obstructions, misalignment or tampering, reducing the need for manual inspections and helping ensure your security coverage is always clear, optimised and ready when it matters most.

Join us to discover the Pelco advantage

We invite you to join our upcoming online event, where industry leaders and Pelco experts will dive deeper into these challenges and solutions. Together, we'll explore how Pelco can be the missing ingredient to supercharge your security and drive operational excellence in the Middle East oil and gas sector.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights and position your operations for success. Register now and discover how Pelco can transform your approach to security.

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is set to become the world’s largest hydrogen exporter by 2060, while maintaining a dominant position in global oil and gas markets, according to DNV’s Oil & Gas Decarbonization in the Gulf Region report

The report highlights how Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are cutting the emissions intensity of their core oil and gas production while continuing to play a central role in global energy supply, presenting a picture of a region approaching the energy transition from a position of confidence and capital strength. Reductions in emissions intensity are occurring alongside continued hydrocarbon production and investment across renewables, electrification, hydrogen, methane abatement, digitalization, and carbon capture.

Since 2005, the GCC has produced nearly 18% of global oil and gas, a share expected to increase as investment continues in low-cost, advantaged resources. As global energy demand increasingly shifts toward Asia, the region’s location and cost competitiveness strengthen its position as a preferred supplier. At the same time, decarbonization measures are becoming an integral part of long-term competitiveness.

“The global energy transition will not progress at the same pace across regions, nor will it follow a single pathway,” said Brice Le Gallo, vice-president & regional director for Southern Europe, MEA & LATAM, Energy Systems at DNV. “In the Middle East, oil and gas remain central to economic stability and global energy security. The key challenge is to reduce their emissions footprint while accelerating investment in the technologies needed for a lower-carbon energy system.”

Electrification is being used to cut Scope 2 emissions from pumps, compressors, and offshore facilities, through grid connections, renewable power, and hybrid solutions. These efforts are supported by energy-efficiency measures and the use of digital tools and artificial intelligence to optimise drilling, reservoir management, and asset operations, reducing energy intensity and emissions per barrel produced.

Methane reduction remains one of the most immediate and cost-effective options for lowering emissions. Across the GCC, routine flaring is planned to be phased out by 2030 and leak detection and repair (LDAR) programmes are increasingly standard. National oil companies are also aligning with international methane initiatives, enabling continued production growth while reducing methane intensity in line with national net-zero targets.

GCC countries are realigning domestic energy systems to reduce oil and gas use domestically and free up volumes for export and low-carbon fuel production. Growth in renewables, electrification of transport and buildings, and efficiency gains are driving this shift. Investment in downstream industries, petrochemicals, and low-carbon fuels is also changing export profiles, moving beyond crude oil toward higher-value and lower-carbon energy products.

With access to low-cost natural gas, strong solar resources, and established industrial and export infrastructure, the region is well placed to scale both low-carbon hydrogen (produced from natural gas with carbon capture) and renewable hydrogen produced through electrolysis. By 2060, the Middle-East and North Africa region is projected to produce around 19 million tonnes of hydrogen and 13 million tonnes of ammonia per year, exporting about 50%, mainly toward Europe and advanced Asian economies.

“Hydrogen, ammonia, and carbon capture are becoming core elements of the GCC’s energy export model,” said Jan Zschommler, market area manager for the Middle East, Energy Systems at DNV. “As emissions requirements tighten, access to international markets will increasingly depend on carbon intensity. Integrating hydrogen production with renewable power, carbon capture, and existing industrial clusters allows the region to remain competitive while meeting these requirements.”

Carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) is also set to grow. In January 2026, the UAE's Supreme Council for Financial and Economic Affairs has introduced Carbon Capture Policy as a further commitment to meeting their carbon reduction targets. Captured CO₂ volumes (including CO₂ removal) are expected to reach around 250 million tonnes per year by 2060, equivalent to roughly 8% of regional energy-related and industrial emissions.

Bioenergy with carbon capture (BECCS) and direct air capture (DAC) combined are expected to remove around 81 million tonnes of CO₂ per year by 2060, helping to offset emissions from sectors that are more difficult to decarbonise.

The full report is available at https://www.dnv.com/energy-transition-outlook/oil-and-gas-decarbonization-in-the-gulf-region/