ADNOC Drilling Company announced the successful delivery and acceptance of AD-300, the first artificial-intelligence (AI) -enabled, fully automated walking island rig nearly 3 months ahead of schedule, accelerating the rollout of the six-rig next-generation program.
Standing 50 m tall and weighing around 2,000 tons, AD-300 combines automation, digital systems, and hybrid power capability, with the option to connect to the grid. Its automated walking capability allows it to move between well locations without dismantling, while automation systems such as automated pipe handling and AI-enabled monitoring help minimize personnel exposure in complex operating environments.
“The delivery of AD-300 marks a step change in how we execute large-scale, technology-enabled energy development,” said Abdulla Ateya Al Messabi, ADNOC Drilling’s CEO. “By integrating automation, artificial intelligence, and robotics at scale, we are enhancing safety, improving efficiency, and delivering more consistent, predictable performance. As the first of six rigs under this program, AD-300 demonstrates our ability to deliver complex, high-value assets ahead of schedule, accelerating revenue generation while supporting ADNOC’s production capacity expansion and reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in advanced energy solutions.”
Deployed offshore on one of ADNOC’s unique artificial islands, AD-300 is the first of six next-generation island rigs under a $1.54 billion contract awarded by ADNOC Offshore in 2024–2025.
“At a time when the world needs reliable energy at scale, the UAE stands ready to supply global customers,” said Tayba Abdulrahim Al Hashmi, ADNOC Offshore’s CEO. “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.”
Integrated data systems provide real-time operational insights for performance optimization and predictive maintenance. AD-301 is currently being deployed, with the remaining rigs scheduled for delivery through 2027.