Drilling Rigs in Saudi Arabia Market Size - Industry Report on Share, Growth Trends & Forecasts Analysis (2025 - 2030)

The Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market Report is Segmented by Location of Deployment (Onshore and Offshore). The Report Offers the Market Size in Value Terms in USD for all the Abovementioned Segments.

Drilling Rigs in Saudi Arabia Market Size - Industry Report on Share, Growth Trends & Forecasts Analysis (2025 - 2030)

Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market Size

Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market Summary
Study Period 2020 - 2030
Base Year For Estimation 2024
Forecast Data Period 2025 - 2030
Market Size (2025) USD 4.72 Billion
Market Size (2030) USD 5.96 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2030) 4.80 %
Market Concentration Medium

Major Players

Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

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Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market Analysis

The Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market size is estimated at USD 4.72 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 5.96 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The Saudi Arabian drilling rigs industry continues to demonstrate robust activity across both onshore and offshore operations, supported by the kingdom's strategic focus on maintaining its position as a global energy leader. The sector has witnessed significant technological advancements, particularly in rig modernization, with companies implementing sophisticated control systems and automated drilling technologies. A notable example is ARO Drilling's deployment of IFS Applications software across their fleet of 16 drilling rigs in 2023, enhancing operational efficiency through improved asset lifecycle management and business intelligence capabilities.


The industry landscape is characterized by a diverse mix of rig specifications and capabilities, reflecting the complex requirements of Saudi Arabia's varied oil and gas fields. As of 2024, approximately 40% of the country's drilling rig fleet consists of high-speed 2,000 hp-3,000 hp rigs, demonstrating the industry's emphasis on high-performance equipment. This technical composition enables operators to effectively address the challenging drilling conditions encountered in both conventional and unconventional resources, particularly in the kingdom's deep and ultra-deep formations.


Saudi Arabia's drilling sector has witnessed substantial capital investments and strategic developments, particularly in offshore operations. The industry's commitment to expansion is exemplified by International Maritime Industries' (IMI) recent contracts for the construction of two LETOURNEAU Super 116E Class offshore jack-up drilling rigs, representing a significant advancement in domestic manufacturing capabilities. These developments are complemented by the ongoing operations at the Safaniya oilfield, the world's largest offshore conventional oil field, which maintains a production capacity of 1-1.5 million barrels of heavy crude oil per day.


The market is experiencing a fundamental shift in rig technology and operational methodologies, with a growing emphasis on multi-well pad drilling capabilities and enhanced efficiency measures. Modern rigs are being equipped with advanced power supply mechanisms, though the majority of onshore rigs in Saudi Arabia continue to utilize SCR (Silicon Controlled Rectifier) systems, which are particularly well-suited to the region's hot and dry climate. This technological evolution is further supported by the integration of digital solutions, as evidenced by the increasing adoption of automated drilling systems and real-time monitoring capabilities across the kingdom's rig fleet. The role of drilling contractors in Saudi Arabia is pivotal in driving these advancements, ensuring that the latest drilling equipment is utilized to optimize operations.

Segment Analysis: By Location of Deployment

Onshore Segment in Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market

The onshore segment dominates the Saudi Arabia drilling rigs market, accounting for approximately 79% of the total market share in 2024. This significant market position is primarily driven by Saudi Arabia's extensive onshore oil and gas operations, particularly in the Ghawar field, which remains the world's largest conventional onshore oil field. The country's onshore drilling operations are characterized by the deployment of high-speed rigs, with approximately 40% being 2,000 HP-3,000 HP rigs, while 25% are 1,500 HP-2,000 HP rigs. The segment's strength is further reinforced by Saudi Aramco's continuous investments in expanding crude production capacity from 12 million b/d to 13 million b/d, along with the discovery of new unconventional resources. The onshore segment's dominance is also reflected in the operational statistics, with the kingdom maintaining around 51 active land rigs in Saudi Arabia compared to 9 offshore rigs, demonstrating the sector's robust infrastructure and operational capacity.

Market Analysis of Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market: Chart for By Location of Deployment

Offshore Segment in Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market

The offshore segment represents a vital component of Saudi Arabia's drilling rigs market, particularly with its strategic offshore assets like the Safaniya oilfield, which stands as the world's largest offshore conventional oil field. This segment is characterized by its sophisticated floating structure operations, with a particular emphasis on jack-up rigs for smaller, shallower offshore deposits. The sector has witnessed significant technological advancement, exemplified by companies like ARO Drilling implementing advanced IFS Applications software across their fleet of offshore rigs in Saudi Arabia, enhancing operational efficiency and asset management capabilities. The segment's development is further supported by strategic partnerships and joint ventures with Saudi Aramco, which has been instrumental in modernizing offshore drilling capabilities and maintaining operational excellence in the region's challenging marine environments. Leading oil rig companies in Saudi Arabia, including ARO Drilling, continue to drive innovation and efficiency in this segment.

Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Industry Overview

Top Companies in Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market

The Saudi Arabian drilling rigs market features prominent players like ARO Drilling, Saipem S.p.A., Sinopec Zhongyuan Petroleum Engineering, Arabian Drilling Company, ADES International Holding, and Shelf Drilling. These companies demonstrate a strong market presence through continuous technological advancements in drilling capabilities, particularly in deep and ultra-deep well operations. The industry witnesses ongoing investment in fleet modernization and expansion, with companies developing specialized rigs for challenging environments and high-pressure conditions. Strategic partnerships and joint ventures, especially with Saudi Aramco, have become crucial for market penetration and sustained growth. Companies are increasingly focusing on localizing their operations in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, while simultaneously expanding their service portfolios to include integrated drilling solutions and specialized well services.

Market Dominated by Strategic Joint Ventures

The Saudi Arabian drilling rigs market exhibits a unique structure characterized by strong local-international partnerships and joint ventures. Saudi Aramco, as the state-owned oil giant, plays a pivotal role in shaping market dynamics through its In-Kingdom Total Value Add (IKTVA) program, which encourages foreign entities to establish local manufacturing and research capabilities. The market demonstrates moderate consolidation, with major players operating through strategic alliances to combine international expertise with local market knowledge. Joint ventures like ARO Drilling, formed between Saudi Aramco and international partners, exemplify this trend and set precedents for market entry and expansion.


Recent market activities highlight a trend toward restructuring and financial reorganization among key players, particularly in response to market challenges. Companies are pursuing strategic acquisitions and partnerships to strengthen their market position and expand their operational capabilities. The industry has witnessed several significant mergers and acquisitions, with companies like ADES International Holding and Arabian Drilling Company actively expanding their fleet size and geographical presence through strategic purchases and collaborations. These consolidation activities are reshaping the competitive landscape while ensuring operational efficiency and market stability.

Innovation and Localization Drive Future Success

Success in the Saudi Arabian drilling rigs market increasingly depends on companies' ability to align with national development goals while maintaining technological leadership. Incumbent players must focus on developing advanced drilling technologies, particularly for challenging environments and deep-water operations, while simultaneously investing in local manufacturing and training facilities. The market demands continuous innovation in areas such as automated drilling systems, high-temperature resistant tools, and intelligent well monitoring capabilities. Companies must also demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and safety standards while maintaining cost competitiveness through operational efficiency.


For new entrants and growing players, success hinges on developing strong relationships with Saudi Aramco and other key stakeholders while offering differentiated services and technologies. The market presents significant barriers to entry, primarily due to high capital requirements and the need for established relationships with key clients. Future growth opportunities lie in specializing in niche segments such as ultra-deep drilling or developing innovative solutions for challenging geological formations. Companies must also navigate regulatory requirements while building local content and capabilities in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, making strategic partnerships and local investment crucial for long-term success.

Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market Leaders

  1. ADES International Holding PLC

  2. Arabian Drilling Company

  3. Shelf Drilling Holdings, Ltd.

  4. ARO Drilling

  5. Saipem S.p.A.

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market Concentration
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Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market News

  • October 2023: KCA Deutag was expected to solidify its global presence after being awarded land drilling contracts with a value of USD 200 million in the Middle East and Latin America. In the Middle East, the company secured two separate five-year extensions for rigs in Saudi Arabia. One rig in Oman obtained a two-year extension, and another was awarded a one-year extension, with options to expand this to three years. These successes follow an announcement made last month for land drilling contract awards worth close to USD 380 million in this region.
  • July 2023: Arabian Drilling Co. (ADC) announced the signing of long-term contracts for ten onshore drilling rigs with Saudi Aramco, which is valued at over USD 800 million. The contract duration is five years from the commencement date of drilling operations. ADC will supply ten new onshore drilling rigs with maximum crews to conduct drilling and exploration operations within Aramco's unconventional program.

Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market Report - Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Scope of the Study
  • 1.2 Market Definition
  • 1.3 Study Assumptions

2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

4. MARKET OVERVIEW

  • 4.1 Introduction
  • 4.2 Market Size and Demand Forecast in USD, till 2028
  • 4.3 Crude Oil Production in million barrels per day, till 2022
  • 4.4 Natural Gas Production in billion cubic feet, till 2022
  • 4.5 Recent Trends and Developments
  • 4.6 Government Policies and Regulations
  • 4.7 Market Dynamics
    • 4.7.1 Drivers
    • 4.7.1.1 Growing Prominence of Gas in Power Generation
    • 4.7.1.2 Increasing Investments in the Sector
    • 4.7.2 Restraints
    • 4.7.2.1 Volatility of Crude Oil and Natural Gas Prices
  • 4.8 Supply Chain Analysis
  • 4.9 PESTLE Analysis

5. MARKET SEGMENTATION

  • 5.1 Location of Deployment
    • 5.1.1 Onshore

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Mergers and Acquisitions, Joint Ventures, Collaborations, and Agreements
  • 6.2 Strategies Adopted by Leading Players
  • 6.3 Company Profiles
    • 6.3.1 ARO Drilling
    • 6.3.2 Sinopec Zhongyuan Petroleum Engineering Ltd
    • 6.3.3 Noble Corporation PLC
    • 6.3.4 Saipem SpA
    • 6.3.5 Arabian Drilling Company
    • 6.3.6 ADES International Holding PLC
    • 6.3.7 Shelf Drilling Holdings Ltd
    • 6.3.8 Seadrill Limited
  • *List Not Exhaustive

7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS

  • 7.1 New Technologies
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Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Industry Segmentation

A drilling rig is an integrated system that drills wells, such as oil or water wells, or holes for piling and other construction purposes into the earth's subsurface. Major components of the rig include mud tanks, mud pumps, derrick or mast, draworks, rotary table or top drive, drill string, power generation equipment, and auxiliary equipment. Offshore rigs include the same components as onshore but not those of the vessel or drilling platform itself.

The Saudi Arabian drilling rigs market is segmented by location of deployment. By location of deployment the market is segmented as offshore and onshore. The report offers the market size in value terms in USD for all the abovementioned segments.

Location of Deployment Onshore
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Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market Research FAQs

How big is the Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market?

The Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market size is expected to reach USD 4.72 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 4.80% to reach USD 5.96 billion by 2030.

What is the current Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market size?

In 2025, the Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market size is expected to reach USD 4.72 billion.

Who are the key players in Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market?

ADES International Holding PLC, Arabian Drilling Company, Shelf Drilling Holdings, Ltd., ARO Drilling and Saipem S.p.A. are the major companies operating in the Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market.

What years does this Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?

In 2024, the Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market size was estimated at USD 4.49 billion. The report covers the Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market historical market size for years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.

Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market Research

Mordor Intelligence offers a comprehensive analysis of the Saudi Arabia Drilling Rigs Market, drawing on our extensive experience in energy sector research. Our detailed report examines key players, such as the Arabian Drilling Company, and highlights prominent drilling contractors in Saudi Arabia. It covers both offshore drilling companies in Saudi Arabia and onshore operations. The analysis includes crucial metrics like rig count Saudi Arabia trends, drilling equipment specifications, and the strategic positioning of oil rig companies in Saudi Arabia. We consider the vast Saudi Arabia land size and its impact on operational dynamics.

The report, available in an easy-to-download PDF format, provides stakeholders with actionable insights into drilling rig companies operations. It includes a detailed analysis of workover rigs market trends and Middle East rigs deployment patterns. Our research covers various segments, including offshore rigs in Saudi Arabia, land rigs in Saudi Arabia, and specialized equipment used by oil and gas drilling companies in Saudi Arabia. Industry participants, from rig move companies in Saudi Arabia to international operators, benefit from our thorough assessment of market dynamics, technological advancements, and regulatory frameworks affecting the drilling companies in Saudi Arabia.

Drilling Rigs in Saudi Arabia Market Report Snapshots