Directional drilling expertise for challenging terrains

Kuwait

Rabie Ruziek, executive director of Terranaut Technology, talks to The Energy Year about carrying out high-risk directional drilling work and emerging opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s oil and gas, water and electricity sectors. Terranaut Technology is a Kuwaiti provider of microtunneling, directional drilling and pipeline construction services.

How is your expansion into Saudi Arabia progressing?
Saudi Arabia is a strategic market for us, and we are committed to expanding our presence here. We have already started working on projects and are looking to increase our footprint in the oil and gas, water and electricity sectors.
Our next steps include building domestic partnerships and establishing a more permanent operational presence. This will allow us to be more agile, respond to tenders faster and be a more reliable partner for major projects. Additionally, we are continuing to invest in cutting-edge equipment and technologies that will give us an edge in high-risk drilling applications.

What types of projects are you targeting?
We are targeting large-scale infrastructure projects in oil and gas pipelines, water supply networks and electricity transmission lines. Our focus includes deep drilling and large-diameter pipelines for oil and gas, and laying pipelines and cables for the water and power sectors.
Our expertise in horizontal directional drilling and microtunneling positions us well to support these initiatives, especially in high-risk, high-precision drilling. Saudi Arabia’s continued focus on increasing production and refining capacity will require advanced techniques for pipeline installations, and we are ready to provide these solutions, particularly in the more challenging terrains.

What challenges do you typically face when carrying out directional drilling work?
Directional drilling projects come with their own set of challenges, especially in Saudi Arabia, where the geology can vary drastically. We often encounter extreme temperatures, hard rock formations and highly sensitive environments that require precision and careful planning.
The key is ensuring that we meet the stringent safety and environmental standards required by Saudi regulations while delivering top-quality results. Fortunately, our experience in Kuwait has equipped us with the tools and expertise to manage risks effectively in Saudi Arabia.

You have also become a tech provider in Saudi Arabia. Can you tell us about the MAG X Pro locating system?
Yes, one of the key innovations we have introduced is the MAG X Pro locating system from the US company Underground Magnetics. This state-of-the-art system is capable of providing precise location tracking at depths of up to 70 metres. It is a significant upgrade for our directional drilling operations, as it enables us to deliver superior accuracy even under the most challenging conditions.
The system’s efficiency is further enhanced by the Echo 75XF transmitter, which offers exceptional range and reliability. With a battery life of up to 160 hours, it ensures that we can complete long-duration projects without constant battery changes or maintenance. This technology has allowed us to streamline our operations, reduce downtime and increase safety by providing real-time data on drill head positioning.

What is your engagement with the Made in Saudi programme?
The Made in Saudi programme is a fantastic initiative, and we are proud to be part of it. By supporting local manufacturing and services, it aligns perfectly with our vision of fostering regional expertise and capabilities. We are committed to sourcing materials and services locally where possible, ensuring that our projects contribute to Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification.
Additionally, by engaging with this programme, we can collaborate with Saudi suppliers, strengthen our partnerships and ensure that our projects support industrial growth and sustainability efforts.

What is your vision for Terranaut for the next few years?
Our vision for Terranaut Technology is to become a key player in the Middle East, especially within Saudi Arabia. We plan to expand our operational footprint, enhance our technological capabilities and diversify our service offerings.
In the next few years, we want to be recognised as a leader in directional drilling and trenchless technologies, not only in the oil and gas sector but also in water, electricity and infrastructure. Our goal is to continue growing, leveraging innovation, and contributing to Vision 2030 objectives.
We are also committed to expanding our team and investing in cutting-edge equipment and training, which will allow us to take on more complex projects with confidence.

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