Q&A With Aramco’s Ali A. Al-Meshari: Digital Disruption Is Only Half the Story in Oil and Gas R&D

_ While digital technologies transform the oilpatch, classics like collaboration and adaptability remain a critical component of research and development (R&D). Ali A. Al-Meshari, Aramco’s senior vice president of technology and head of the R&D division, shared his thoughts with JPT about oilfield technology and the company’s R&D efforts. One of the keys to success is a systematic approach that brings an idea from concept to reality, whether that’s in relation to current artificial intelligence (AI) development projects or with emerging tech that’s potentially disruptive, such as quantum computing and advanced materials. Partnering in development projects remains a tried-and-true approach, and he had some advice for young professionals: embrace adaptability and pursue lifelong learning. JPT: What trends have you observed regarding technology in the upstream oil and gas industry? AA: The upstream oil and gas industry is increasingly leveraging advanced technologies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and help reduce carbon emissions. For instance, high-performance computing systems are being utilized at Aramco to enable advanced seismic imaging, improving the ability to explore and develop hydrocarbon reserves. These technologies allow for more-precise mapping of subsurface structures, leading to better drilling decisions and higher recovery rates. Moreover, the industry is focusing on innovations that align with sustainability goals, such as reducing upstream carbon intensity. Initiatives include optimizing operational models to minimize gas flaring and water usage, as well as investing in technologies that support lower carbon intensity production. Aramco has achieved one of the lowest upstream carbon intensities compared to peers in the industry, and we have the ambition to achieve net zero on Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse-gas emissions across our wholly-owned operated assets by 2050. This will be enabled by many promising technologies that we are developing internally and with strategic partners. JPT: I understand the three main areas of upstream R&D focus at Aramco are enhancing hydrocarbon exploration and recovery, increasing operational efficiency and productivity, and lowering upstream emissions. Please tell us about those efforts. AA: A major emphasis is on developing advanced methods for discovering new oil and gas reserves. This includes leveraging seismic imaging technologies, data analytics, and subsurface modeling to improve exploration accuracy. In addition, R&D is directed toward enhancing oil recovery techniques—such as waterflooding optimization, gas injection, and chemical methods to maximize the amount of hydrocarbons extracted from existing fields. Aramco is investing in technologies that increase productivity while reducing operational costs such as automation, digital twins, and real-time monitoring systems that help optimize drilling and production processes. The goal is to maintain high levels of output with minimal downtime and resource use, reinforcing Aramco’s position as one of the lowest-cost producers globally. A growing area of focus is on technologies that reduce the environmental impacts of upstream operations. This includes innovations aimed at lowering carbon intensity, minimizing gas flaring, and managing produced water effectively. An important workstream here is carbon capture and storage (CCS), with one of the key initiatives being the development of the Jubail CCS hub, where Aramco aims to capture and store up to 9 million tons of CO2 annually. This includes emissions from both Aramco’s own operations and other industrial sources, positioning the site as a regional CCS hub.