Oman launches first locally manufactured rig

MUSCAT, November 1, 2023 – Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) has launched Oman’s first locally manufactured well drilling rig, the Omani E&P company announced on Monday.

The rig was designed and constructed by UK-headquartered KCA Deutag at its site in Nizwa in the Governorate of Al Dakhiliyah and is the first of four contracted by the company.

The 1,250-hp rig will fulfill a 10-year drilling contract signed with PDO in January 2022.

The company has invested around USD 100 million to build the rigs in Oman.

Around 40% of the investment was spent on subcontracting work for Omani SMEs.

“Our commitment to providing in-country value in Oman is demonstrated by our investment in the economy and people with Omani nationals representing 92% of our local workforce,” Simon Drew, president of land drilling of KCA Deutag.

“This also extends to establishing the next generation of talent through the launch of a summer internship programme in partnership with Omani universities for 16 undergraduates.”

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