Adnoc partners with US robotics startup to deploy AI across oil operations

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) has signed three strategic agreements with US robotics startup Gecko Robotics to deploy artificial intelligence and robotic systems across its operations. The partnerships aim to reduce operational downtime, enhance maintenance capabilities, and position the UAE as a global energy innovation hub while training local talent in advanced technologies.

What you should know: The agreements span multiple areas of collaboration, from immediate technology deployment to potential local manufacturing.

• AIQ, Adnoc’s joint venture with AI company Presight, will introduce Gecko’s Cantilever operating system across Adnoc Gas assets, marking AIQ’s first venture into robotics.
• A separate agreement explores wider adoption of AI-powered analytics and the potential manufacturing of robotic systems within the UAE.
• The third deal focuses on training programs through collaboration with the Adnoc Technical Academy.

The big picture: Energy companies are racing to become technology-driven organizations rather than simply using technology as a tool.

• “There is a race to lead the AI and energy moment. And the energy companies that win won’t just utilise technology; they will become technology companies,” said Jake Loosararian, Gecko Robotics’ chief executive.
• The strategy involves acquiring physical data through robotics and leveraging AI to unlock both human and machine performance potential.

Why this matters: The energy sector is experiencing rapid AI adoption, with significant implications for operational efficiency and decision-making.

• One in five energy companies now uses agentic AI to automate complex decision-making processes.
• About 88% of executives believe AI has a very positive effect on energy, describing their relationship as “symbiotic,” according to Adnoc and Microsoft’s recent Powering Possible report.

In plain English: Agentic AI is artificial intelligence that can make decisions and take actions on its own, without needing human approval for each step—like a smart assistant that doesn’t just answer questions but actually gets things done.

What they’re saying: Adnoc’s leadership emphasizes the transformative potential of these partnerships.

• “Adnoc is harnessing the power of AI and advanced technology to transform the way we work, driving greater efficiency, safety and performance across our operations,” said Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Adnoc’s managing director and group chief executive.
• “These three agreements mark another step on our journey to becoming the world’s most AI-enabled energy company as we accelerate robotics deployment, empower local talent and strengthen the UAE’s position as a global hub for energy innovation.”

Important context: The agreements were announced during the Enact Majlis in Abu Dhabi, which brought together over 100 global leaders from energy, technology, investment, and government sectors.

• The event highlighted that electricity demand for data centers will quadruple by 2040, increasing from 105 to 450 gigawatts.
• The announcement precedes Adipec, the world’s largest energy industry event, taking place in Abu Dhabi from November 3-6.