Interview: Mohamed Jaidah, Group Executive Director, Jaidah Group, on how new technologies and localisation boost production capabilities
How is the energy sector working to expand the production of liquefied natural gas (LNG)?
MOHAMED JAIDAH: Qatar is scaling up upstream operations to meet its LNG production target of 142m tonnes annually by 2030. This expansion involves the drilling of hundreds of new wells, with an emphasis on operational efficiency, safety and long-term reliability. Accordingly, the industry is seeing higher demand for advanced well diagnostics, real-time geological data and responsive well intervention technologies. Locally established services such as mud logging and through-barrier diagnostics are becoming essential for optimising well performance and reducing risks. Efforts are also under way to expand capabilities in slickline operations, ensuring faster response times and less downtime.
Where do you see opportunities for localisation within the Qatari energy sector?
JAIDAH: The energy sector is placing greater emphasis on localisation through programmes like Tawteen, which aim to build domestic capabilities. Jaidah actively participates in Tawteen. It localised mud logging services through the acquisition of advanced technology and a skilled local workforce. The firm also localised the in-situ testing of pressure safety valves and inaugurated a maintenance facility related to mechanical seals. It is investing to establish manufacturing capacity for critical oil and gas components, reinforcing the resilience of the country’s energy supply chain. These efforts are improving agility, reducing lead times and helping to boost long-term industrial self-sufficiency.
What role does the private sector play in strengthening strategic partnerships and technology transfer within Qatar’s energy sector?
JAIDAH: The private sector is a vital bridge between global tech providers and the local energy market. By forming strategic joint ventures and technical alliances, it facilitates the transfer of advanced know-how and equipment into Qatar. These partnerships go beyond simple representation and include joint training programmes, co-developed service offerings and the local integration of proprietary technologies. This ensures that international expertise is effectively adapted to the specific challenges and standards of the Qatari environment. As a result, operators benefit from faster deployment, reduced technical risk and cutting-edge and locally anchored solutions. This collaborative model is central to the mission of building long-term value.
To what extent is increased digitalisation transforming operational efficiency and decision-making within the oil and gas industry?
JAIDAH: The growing adoption of digital instrumentation and automation is reshaping Qatar’s oil and gas sector. A range of smart field devices, flow meters and actuators integrated into control systems have been introduced – enabling real-time optimisation of processes, enhancing both efficiency and safety. In addition, digital twin solutions are increasingly being used to simulate asset performance, anticipate failures and extend equipment life. This digital transformation is at the core of efforts to create more intelligent, resilient and sustainable energy operations across the country.
Which steps are being taken to enhance safety protocols and environmental compliance?
JAIDAH: Qatar’s energy sector is actively aligning with global environmental, social and governance expectations by strengthening safety systems and environmental compliance – particularly in high-impact areas such as gas detection and chemical handling. Across the industry, real-time gas monitoring technologies are being deployed to improve site safety through automated alerts and continuous data streams. In parallel, sustainable chemical handling practices are being introduced through partnerships that emphasize eco-design, waste minimisation and transparency.
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