First UAE Deployment of At-The-Bit Steerable System in Unconventional Project: Enhancing Build Capability and Drilling Efficiency in High-DLS Applications

This abstract presents the first successful deployment of an At-the-Bit Rotary Steerable System (RSS) in the UAE, targeting an unconventional project. The goal was to address challenges in drilling an 8.5" production hole section with high dogleg severity (DLS) demands. These high-DLS wells aimed to reduce the Landing Point (LP) vertical section, minimizing the loss of potentially productive acreage in unconventional zones and optimizing overall well trajectory length while maintaining borehole quality and drilling efficiency. The At-the-Bit RSS, equipped with dual hydraulically actuated pistons adjacent to the cutting structure, was selected to meet trajectory demands of up to 4°/100 ft DLS. A comprehensive risk assessment and Management of Change (MOC) process preceded deployment. The system was run with a 5-bladed bit featuring 16 mm cutters. The Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA) included shock and vibration suppression tools and was optimized for directional responsiveness. Continuous real-time monitoring was conducted to track tool performance and directional control. The At-the-Bit RSS demonstrated strong directional performance, achieving build rates between 6–11°/100 ft, confirming its effectiveness in high-curvature drilling environments. The revised directional plan contributed to improved drilling efficiency by shortening the total depth by 150 ft, thereby reducing the negative vertical section and enhancing well placement. Operationally, the system exhibited smooth pull-out-of-hole behavior with low friction factors (0.2), indicating good borehole quality. However, elevated shock and vibration levels were recorded, which partially constrained tool performance. A follow-up deployment in a more complex section has been completed, confirming the system's adaptability to varied lithologies and its ability to maintain trajectory accuracy with minimal corrective action. For future deployments, especially in second or third trials—are expected to further validate tool building capability. Recommendations include using less aggressive bit designs to reduce vibration, continued use of vibration suppression tools, and trajectory designs optimized around a 6°/100 ft DLS. This deployment marks the first use of an At-the-Bit RSS in the UAE, expanding the portfolio of high-performance directional drilling technologies in the region. The at-the-bit design with dual pistons enabled responsive steering in high-curvature environments without additional hydraulic force. The deployment also set a precedent for broader use of this technology in unconventional assets and contributed new learnings on bit/tool interaction under high DLS loads. The tool's benefits are expected to support future unconventional well campaigns through reduced LP vertical sections and shorter well lengths.