Abstract This paper captures the transformational journey of ADNOC's unconventional (UC) oil drilling fleet over the past two years, during which over one million feet were safely drilled across multiple rigs. It showcases how strategic operational, engineering, and leadership initiatives systematically reduced well delivery time and cost, while maintaining outstanding safety performance. Beyond technical success, the campaign ignited a performance-driven culture that reshaped the future of UAE unconventional drilling, delivering consistent results even under challenging conditions. A structured performance improvement framework was deployed, emphasizing empowered rig leadership, agile engineering support, and a daily focus on critical KPIs. Aggressive yet controlled drilling parameters were combined with optimized BHA designs and advanced drill bits to enhance penetration rates while maintaining borehole quality. Offline activities such as logging and wellhead works were systematically shifted off rig critical path. Rig teams embedded a culture of accountability around ROP, connection times, and flat time optimization. The campaign demanded adaptability, with drilling strategies continuously fine-tuned to overcome tight formations and elevated bottomhole temperatures exceeding 275°F, common across the UAE unconventional fields. Across more than 82 wells, the fleet demonstrated outstanding gains: ROP peaked at 178. 26 FPH in 17-1/2″, 137. 39 FPH in 12-1/4″, and 124. 25 FPH in 8-1/2″ sectionsA highest daily footage of 3, 580 ft in 24 hours was recorded. Average well delivery time dropped by 80% from 96. 5 days (Q3-2023) to 18. 95 days (Q2-2025), with several wells touching the 14 days bar. Average cost per foot was reduced from 668/ft to 429/ft, achieving a 35. 7% cost improvement. Weight-to-weight connection times were optimized with 60% improvement, significantly improving rig rhythm and cumulative operational efficiency. ILT sources were systematically targeted and minimized. Diesel consumption and related emission significantly decreased by more than 40%. Notably, these improvements were realized while maintaining tool reliability and enhancing borehole quality, despite the added complexity of tight, abrasive formations and extreme temperature zones. In addition to setting operational records, the campaign delivered measurable sustainability benefits. By saving hundreds of rig days, the fleet substantially reduced diesel consumption and CO₂ emissions, aligning with ADNOC's broader environmental objectives. The structured performance model, reinforced by strong leadership and adaptive engineering, provides a replicable and scalable blueprint for operational excellence in future unconventional drilling operations.
Nour et al. (Mon,) studied this question.