Kuwait makes major oil discoveries with the help of AI and digital transformation

15/04/2025 03:07 AST

Secretary General of the Arab Energy Organization (AEO) Jamal Al-Loughani announced on Sunday that Kuwait has made two major oil and gas discoveries - Al-Nokhtha-1 and Al-Julaia-2 - with estimated reserves approaching four billion barrels, thanks to the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced digital technologies in exploration efforts. Al-Loughani made the remarks during the inauguration of a regional training program titled "Digital Transformation and its Applications in the Oil and Gas Sector," jointly organized by the Arab Energy Organization (formerly OAPEC) and Egypt's Engineering Company for Petroleum and Chemical Industries (ENPPI).

He emphasized that the adoption of cutting-edge digital technologies - including AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics - is revolutionizing exploration, production, and distribution processes in the energy sector. These technologies, he said, are driving operational efficiency, improving accuracy, and delivering enhanced outcomes across the industry.

Al-Loughani underlined the importance of such training programs in building local expertise and technical competencies among professionals in AEO member states. He noted that the collaboration with ENPPI aims to support the region's digital transformation journey by equipping energy sector personnel with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate and lead this shift. "Digital transformation is not simply a matter of deploying new technologies. It requires a fundamental change in organizational culture, mindset, and skillsets," Al-Loughani said. "It is a strategic enabler that enhances performance, reduces operational costs, and ensures competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global energy landscape."

He pointed to the successful digital initiatives adopted by member countries, including Egypt's Petroleum Sector Development and Modernization Program, launched nearly a decade ago. The program led to the digital upgrade of Egypt's Exploration and Production Portal, the establishment of digital centers, and the implementation of integrated resource planning systems.

Al-Loughani added that the training initiative is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the energy sector's digital value chain - from exploration and production to refining and distribution. It also aims to demonstrate how enterprise resource planning systems and other digital tools can be leveraged for operational integration and efficiency. He expressed gratitude to energy and petroleum ministers across AEO member states for their continued support, including the nomination of qualified professionals to participate in the training course - a reflection of the region's collective commitment to workforce development and innovation.

In his remarks, Eng Wael Lotfy, Chairman of ENPPI, said the program focuses on global digital transformation trends and explores smart technologies for exploration, production, asset management, occupational health and safety, data analytics and cybersecurity. "Energy companies today are looking to optimize production, enhance asset utilization, and ensure high levels of operational effectiveness. This can only be achieved by adopting smart digital solutions that enable proactive planning and problem-solving," Lotfy said.

He expressed hope that the training program would serve as a regional platform for dialogue, capacity building, and strengthened cooperation among stakeholders. Running from April 13 to 15, 2025, the program covers a broad range of topics, including AI applications, IoT integration, and data-driven decision-making. It also highlights successful digital transformation experiences from member states such as Kuwait and Egypt. The event has drawn the participation of approximately 130 experts and professionals from oil and energy companies across the Arab region.

KUNA