Aramco is ahead of the curve in spearheading cutting-edge technology such as artificial intelligence (AI), both in its own operations and beyond, according to new research from GlobalData
Aramco has significantly invested in research and development (R&D) compared to its industry peers, allocating approximately US$3.5bn in 2023, representing a 15% annual increase, despite global challenges. GlobalData's Technology Foresights innovation intelligence platform identifies over 250 areas of innovation involving Aramco, encompassing technologies poised to disrupt the oil and gas sector, such as AI, drones, robotics, electric vehicles (EVs), and hydrogen technology. Additionally, Aramco has internally developed cybersecurity capabilities to safeguard against cyber threats encountered in recent years.
Sourabh Nyalkalkar, practice head of Innovation Products at GlobalData, commented, “Technology Foresights throws light on Aramco’s AI innovation strategy. The innovation leadership map reveals how the company is employing AI in its core operations and selectively prioritising the adoption of AI innovations in specific areas of its business. For instance, utilising AI for oil exploration and underwater operations is a significant strategic focus where the company clearly holds a strong leadership position.
“A recently published patent application clearly demonstrates this usage, describing the deployment of drones in sub-surface terrain to capture images. These images are then analysed using machine learning (ML) algorithms to detect oil spills and pollutants. Another application showcases the use of AI/ML for automating seismic data processing and providing real-time updates for sub-surface reservoir models.”
Pioneering generative AI model
Aramco has launched Aramco METABRAIN, a generative AI model trained on data accumulated by the company over the past 90 years.
Speaking at LEAP 2024 in March, Aramco’s CEO Amin H. Nasser said, “On the Upstream side of our business, METABRAIN is helping to analyse drilling plans and geological data as well as historical drilling times versus costs and recommend well options. For Downstream, METABRAIN will have the capability to provide precise forecasts for refined products, including pricing trends, market dynamics, and geopolitical insights.”
Nasser also highlighted the role of Aramco’s dedicated digital and AI-driven centres in supporting the development of new technologies, and the launch of Aramco Digital last year to deploy cutting-edge technology at scale.
In late 2023, the company launched a digital innovation ecosystem named Saudi Accelerated Innovation Laboratory (SAIL). Its goal is to engage with a broader ecosystem, including government organisations and startups, to foster the development of digital innovation products and keep Saudi Arabia at the forefront of market-driven digital innovation.
Nyalkalkar concluded, “Aramco is also betting on futuristic technologies. The company is closely monitoring the startup ecosystem and has in the recent past invested in several companies such as Pragmatic, which develops flexible semiconductor chips, and Sunrate, a fintech company.
“From the perspective of industry watchers and stakeholders, Saudi Aramco’s initiatives in adopting cutting-edge technologies, particularly AI, provide valuable insights into strategic navigation within a disruptive environment. For startups and other vendors developing industry-specific solutions, the insights gained from the in-depth innovation analysis of Aramco and its peers can assist in prioritising areas that can enhance the value proposition.”
