News

HFI represented by Hugh Fraser, Managing Partner was delighted to be attending the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) Middle East 2025 Conference, 14 –15 October in Dammam, Saudi Arabia and engaging with global leaders driving innovation in the drilling and energy sectors.

The day began with a compelling presentation by Teresa Wilkie, Research Director – RigLogix at Westwood Global Energy Group, who shared her expert analysis on Offshore Rig Market Trends & Outlook. Teresa provided a deep dive into current rig utilization, regional market dynamics, and strategic forecasts, offering valuable insights for operators and contractors navigating today’s offshore landscape.

Later, the spotlight turned to the Energy and Data Management System (EDMS) session, where industry experts discussed how digital platforms are transforming operational efficiency and sustainability. Among the speakers was Jaro Aarseth, Senior Vice President Energy & Emissions at Esgian Offshore Rigs AS, who highlighted the role of data integration in emissions tracking and performance optimization. The session emphasised the importance of real-time data flow, cross-platform connectivity, and the future of digital drilling ecosystems.

The day continued with a thought-provoking panel discussion titled AI – From Technical Implementation to Business Integration. The panel featured Yuanlin Jiang, Chief Executive Officer, Beijing JJC Technology, Mohammed Murif Al-Rubaii, Drilling Foreman, Aramco and Ahmed Osman, Drilling Engineering Manager, SLB. Together, they explored the practical deployment of AI across drilling operations, from predictive analytics and automation to aligning AI technologies with broader business strategies. Their insights shed light on both the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI in complex energy environments.

Looking ahead to Day 2, We are excited for more insightful conversations that continue to shape the future of drilling and energy. Next week, HFI is pleased to be attending the SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) in Houston from 20–22 October. It’s always a valuable opportunity to engage with industry leaders and explore the innovations driving our sector forward and a great opportunity to meet up with clients and connections.