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Masar Petroleum SAOC, a leading Omani oil and gas exploration and production company, has announced a major discovery in the Hasirah Ridge in Block 7, Sultanate of Oman

The Block 7 concession area spans approximately 2,300sq km in Al Wusta Governorate, central Oman and is operated by Masar Petroleum, which holds a 100% stake. The company started producing from the Hasirah reservoir in 2017.

Masar Petroleum has now successfully drilled a new exploration well south of its existing discoveries, validating the concept of the Hasirah Ridge, a geological trend 5km wide and 30 km long mapped across Block 7 using 2D seismic data. This discovery represents the critical first step toward unlocking the Ridge’s prospective resource base of 100 to 380 million barrels.

A 3D seismic survey and exploration and appraisal program is now going to be conducted, to advance the development of the new resources by the end of 2028.

First production from this field is expected to be on stream during the last quarter of the year. Masar Petroleum plans to rapidly advance appraisal and development opportunities across Block 7, with a view to accelerated growth.

“Masar is a proud Omani E&P company that has delivered significant value through a continuous and focused effort on unlocking our potential,” said Abdulsattar AlMurshidi, chief executive officer of Masar Petroleum.

As Gulf drilling activity scales, operators are rethinking waste management, says Pierre-Marie Hinden, UAE general manager, TWMA

In the pursuit of expanding oil and gas production across the Gulf, the question increasingly front of mind for many operators is how much more output can be achieved by improving operational efficiency, rather than simply adding more drilling activity.

That question is coming into sharper focus now as the UAE races toward expanding production capacity. ADNOC is leading the charge, accelerating toward its goal of reaching 5 million barrels per day production capacity by 2027 and potentially beyond if needed. And the UAE is not alone as Saudi Arabia continues to ramp up major offshore and unconventional gas developments, while operators across the wider region are expanding drilling campaigns with goals to increase operational capacity.

As Gulf states recover and aggressively rebuild from impacts of the conflict on energy assets, this momentum is expected to continue well through 2027 and beyond. This in turn is driving operators to look more closely at their operations to find efficiencies and recover value. Every operational decision is under increased pressure to maximise performance while minimising cost and, as a result, leading operators are beginning to challenge established practices and examine how every aspect of operations can be adjusted to improve performance.

That includes areas such as drilling waste management, an essential but often overlooked part of drilling operations, which if optimised, can unlock major cost, efficiency, safety and sustainability benefits.

Is traditional drilling waste management still fit for purpose?

Offshore, a typical approach to tackling drilling waste is skip and ship. Here, waste is collected offshore, loaded into skips, transported by vessel to shore and then processed and disposed of on land. It remains a familiar and compliant approach, but one that can also introduce operational complexity, logistical dependency, high emissions and significant hidden costs.

An alternative method is at-source treatment which in a lot of ways, substantially outperforms traditional approaches including across safety, cost, environmental and overall operational efficiency. Rather than transporting waste back onshore, thermal treatment technologies such as the RotoMill allow drill cuttings, slops and sludges to be processed directly at the wellsite. That means fewer vessel movements, fewer lifting operations and significantly reduced logistics requirements. At the same time, valuable base fluids can be recovered from drill cuttings and reused onsite.

To put this into perspective, since 2014, in collaboration with a major operator in the UAE, TWMA’s RotoMill has processed more than 600,000 tonnes of drilling waste, accumulated legacy waste and slop at source. Working with the operator across multiple fields has eliminated more than 70,000 km of transport, reducing carbon emissions by 50%, as well as significantly reducing handling and logistics requirements. Combined with the recovery of approximately US$78mn worth of base fluid for reuse, the total savings are in excess of US$200 mn.

As production ambitions and drilling activity continue to scale across the Gulf, but so do does attention on cost, efficiency and sustainability, case studies like this show what can be achieved by optimising every part of the operation.

What is the real cost of offshore operations?

While operators are increasingly taking a total cost of ownership (TCO) approach across the well lifecycle, there can still be a tendency to focus on upfront costs. But the reality is, what may appear a lower-cost solution on face value, can create wider operational inefficiencies and spend elsewhere.

Traditional skip and ship approaches, for example, may reduce costs at the rig site, but they can also increase vessel demand, fuel consumption and handling requirements and disposal costs. Predicting those knock-on effects is not always easy, and this is where specialist drilling waste management expertise, when brought into projects early, can help operators gain a clearer view of the full operational picture and what tailored solution works for their needs. That includes navigating relevant regulatory requirements, as well as understanding that offshore processing solutions can deliver savings of up to 60% compared to traditional skip and ship methods, or that for a typical 60-day operation, total costs for skip and ship can reach around US$1.24mn, compared to approximately US$510,000 for offshore processing.

Looking ahead, the ambitions of the region, as they always have been, are significant, and we see that through key operators’ production ambitions, as just one example. But scale and expansion is really only one part of the picture. Without doubling down on optimisation of all drilling processes, efficiency, cost and sustainability gains will be left on the table at a time when there is no room for anything but profitable growth.

As the Uganda National Oil Company aims to build a crude refinery, it has reached out to a unit of global commodities trader, Vitol, for a US$2bn loan to support the project alongside construction and infrastructure developments

According to Henry Musasizi, Uganda's junior finance minister, this seven-year tenor loan from Vitol Bahrain EC (VBA) comes with an interest rate of 4.92%. The minister worked on advancing the approval process for the credit line and the loan, which involved significant lawmakers, who sanctioned the development with a majority verdict.

Musasizi said that Vitol's support "presents an opportunity to access non-traditional financing to implement. ..projects and support the government in developing national infrastructure."  

Vitol Bahrain EC has a long-standing presence in Uganda's downstream sector, functioning as the sole supplier of refined petroleum products to UNOC, before the state-owned company sells it to retailers across the country.

Alongside the refinery, the loan amount will also be covering road construction, a petroleum products storage terminal and extension of a petroleum pipeline from western Kenya to Uganda's capital Kampala.

Previously, the UNOC also concluded a deal with the UAE-based Alpha MBM Investments, whereby a domestic refinery with a capacity of 60,000 barrels per day is in the pipeline. The agreement accords 60% stake on the refinery to the UAE firm while UNOC retains 40%.

Uganda is looking to begin commercial oil generation starting next year from fields in its west.

Manufacturers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia are leading the way globally in adopting and scaling advanced technologies, according to Rockwell Automation's 11th annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report 

The report draws on research conducted with manufacturing executives worldwide, including a representative sample from the Middle East. Findings indicate that manufacturers in the region are moving beyond planning and experimentation, with a growing focus on deploying digital technologies at scale to improve operational performance.

According to the study, the Middle East has emerged as the world's most committed region when it comes to digital transformation. Nearly all respondents, 98%, consider digital transformation essential to their business, placing the region ahead of Europe, the United States and the global average. This commitment is reflected in spending priorities, with manufacturers dedicating close to 30% of their operating budgets to industrial technology investments.

“Manufacturers in the Middle East are not just adopting digital technologies, they are scaling them at pace,” said Ediz Eren, regional vice-president, Middle East, Africa and Türkiye, Rockwell Automation.

“What sets the region apart is the combination of strong investment, clear strategic intent and a willingness to embed advanced technologies directly into operational environments.”

AI drives industrial transformation

Artificial intelligence continues to play a central role in the region’s manufacturing evolution. The report shows that AI adoption has reached near-universal levels, with almost every manufacturer either already using AI technologies or planning to do so. Generative AI has also gained widespread acceptance, becoming integrated across industrial operations throughout the region.

Rather than being limited to experimental applications, AI is increasingly being incorporated into operational technology environments. Manufacturers are using it to enhance quality management, strengthen cybersecurity measures and optimise production processes.

The study found that organisations are prioritising technologies capable of delivering measurable business outcomes. AI and machine learning were identified as the technologies generating the highest return on investment, reinforcing the region’s focus on practical and performance-driven digital transformation strategies.

Workforce and cyber security remain priorities

As digital adoption accelerates, manufacturers are facing new organisational challenges. Workforce readiness has become a major concern, with change management emerging as the leading challenge as companies introduce advanced technologies throughout their operations.

To address these issues, manufacturers are expanding reskilling initiatives and increasing efforts to recruit employees with expertise in digital technologies and artificial intelligence. The report highlights a growing recognition that future manufacturing competitiveness will depend heavily on workforce capabilities.

Cybersecurity continues to rank among the highest priorities for industrial organisations. As operational environments become more connected, manufacturers are investing heavily in protecting digital systems while managing the risks associated with increased connectivity.

The report also highlights growing interest in simulation technologies such as digital twins. Adoption plans in the Middle East exceed those seen in other regions, with many organisations preparing to invest in these technologies over the coming year. Digital twins are increasingly being used to model production environments, test operational changes and improve efficiency before implementation.

Despite strong progress in digitalisation, the research indicates that many manufacturers still struggle to maximise the value of their operational data. While significant volumes of data are being collected, a substantial proportion remains underutilised, highlighting the need for stronger data-driven decision-making capabilities.

Overall, the findings suggest that manufacturers in the Middle East are pursuing a distinctive approach to digital transformation characterised by significant investment, widespread technology adoption and a strong emphasis on operational outcomes. The report concludes that the region is not only keeping pace with global manufacturing trends but is increasingly helping shape the future direction of industrial transformation.

The State of Smart Manufacturing Report captures perspectives from manufacturing leaders across a range of sectors, including automotive, life sciences, consumer goods and industrial manufacturing. The research examines how organisations are adopting technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity solutions, digital twins and workforce development strategies as they respond to growing operational complexity and competitive pressures.

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/