The role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming the Operations of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company

Abstract

The research sought to understand the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the operations of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). Utilising qualitative data from a sample of 15 participants, semi-structured interviews were conducted, and responses were thematically analysed using the probe technique to provide holistic insights. The main findings of the study revealed the transformative journey faced by ADNOC in adopting and integrating AI into its traditional operations related to oil and gas. AI emerged as an important tool that substantially altered the operational domain of ADNOC; the influence was far-reaching beyond the advantages related to the efficiency of the functions and processes. The analysis of the participants’ responses revealed that AI’s influence extends across multiple domains of operations; it has revolutionised overall practices in oil and gas fields. This includes production planning, reservoir management, maintenance of oil and gas fields, asset management and exploration of oil and gas operations. Moving beyond just the impacts of AI in multiple areas of oil and gas operations, the key findings also reveal the motivating factors that are behind the adoption and integration of AI into existing processes. The study also shows that the main hurdles and negative aspects hindering the adoption of AI include such as compliance issues, cybersecurity threats, legacy systems, concerns about data quality, scalability, change management and cost implications. The research findings offer valuable insights into the transformative journey, challenges, motivating factors, and implications associated with incorporating AI into traditional operations. The key findings established the ways in which AI dramatically changed operations, including production planning, reservoir management, asset maintenance, and oil exploration. Theoretical contribution is towards enhancing the knowledge of how AI facilitates the agility of organisations in complex sectors. In practice, the study presents a pathway for an organisation to guide through problems related to compliance, cybersecurity, and integration of legacy systems. The practical implications of the study offer a roadmap for organisations to navigate the complexities of adopting and integrating AI into their operations, drawing from the best practices and lessons learned from the journey of ADNOC.