Interview: Aflah Al Hadhrami
In what ways are goals for the oil and gas sector under Oman Vision 2040 shaping current exploration and production strategies?
AFLAH AL HADHRAMI: Oman Vision 2040 has a significant influence on exploration and production strategies in the oil and gas sector, with a clear focus on reducing dependency on hydrocarbons and promoting sustainable, inclusive growth. This approach emphasises both maximising economic returns from hydrocarbons resources and achieving carbon competitiveness by reducing emissions. While hydrocarbons will remain a critical component of Oman’s economy for the foreseeable future, production practices must evolve to be more sustainable. This includes accelerating project timelines, developing untapped resources and employing enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques. Simultaneously, there is a strong commitment to investing in renewable energy, such as solar and wind, as well as exploring blue hydrogen, carbon capture, utilisation and storage, and emissions abatement measures including flare and methane reduction – all of which align with robust energy efficiency practices.
To what extent are Oman’s sustainability targets and the global energy transition contributing to the diversification of the economy?
AL HADHRAMI: The energy transition and Oman’s sustainability goals have a substantial impact on exploration and production strategies. Oman aims to leverage its existing fossil fuel resources to finance investment in clean energy technologies, ultimately supporting a diversified economy. The transition away from oil and gas is a long-term process, which necessitates a sustainable expansion of fossil fuel operations while prioritising environmentally conscious practices.
Advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence for subsurface mapping and emissions monitoring, are critical enablers of progress. Collaborations with technology partners and local suppliers further support energy transition goals, enhancing employment, infrastructure and research to contribute to national sustainability and economic diversification.
Which steps are being taken to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint and ensure that remaining reserves can be exploited as sustainably as possible?
AL HADHRAMI: The oil and gas sector is undertaking vital measures to reduce its carbon footprint and ensure the sustainable exploitation of remaining reserves. Over 60% of carbon emissions in this sector are from power generation, highlighting the need for large-scale renewable projects like solar and wind. PDO has a comprehensive greenhouse gas reduction roadmap targeting a 50% cut in emissions by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050, aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and international climate commitments.
How has the approach to EOR technologies evolved, and what impact has this had on production efficiency and the lifespan of mature fields?
AL HADHRAMI: Oman’s approach to EOR technologies has evolved significantly in response to its complex geology and the challenge of extracting mature and harder-to-reach reserves. Advanced and cost-effective EOR methods are essential to maintaining the economic viability of many fields, with projections indicating that approximately 28% of output will rely on EOR mechanisms by 2031. While high production costs per barrel present ongoing challenges, Oman continues to drive more efficient and lower-cost EOR initiatives.
Oman has pioneered various EOR strategies, including chemical, miscible high-pressure gas and thermal methods. Trials are under way to utilise captured CO₂ for extraction in the Upper Shuaiba reservoir. Additionally, enhanced geoscience capabilities are enabling optimised EOR applications, lowering capital expenditure and mitigating risks of stranded assets.
