Mohammed Al Qahtani, Aramco Downstream President, emphasised the importance of technological innovation and workforce upskilling to achieve downstream transformation, contribute to energy security, and help reduce emissions at the Gulf Downstream Association International Downstream Conference & Exhibition (GDA IDCE).

 

He also highlighted Aramco’s strategic downstream expansion.

 

On Aramco’s Downstream expansion, Al Qahtani said: “I see a clear shift in the narrative of Downstream: from reactive to transformative…and from adaptive to innovative…We view strategic Downstream expansion as essential to diversify our portfolio, capture greater value, and ensure long-term resilience.”

 

He added: “The world still needs more energy…Our global downstream presence, supported by strategic overseas investments, is reinforcing our position as a trusted partner in refining and petrochemicals. As we expand across the portfolio in developing arenas such as retail, fuels, and trading, we remain confident in our ability to thrive in an increasingly carbon-conscious world.”

 

On technology’s importance to Downstream, Al Qahtani said: “Tools like AI, cloud computing, IoT, digital twins, and blockchain are supporting us to operate more efficiently, transparently, and safely. According to research by S&P, with the help of AI, individual assets have achieved cost reductions of 10 per cent to 25 per cent, productivity gains of 3 per cent to 8 per cent, and energy efficiency improvements of 5 per cent to 8 per cent.”

 

On Aramco’s workforce evolution and global collaboration, Al Qahtani said: “Our greatest asset remains our HI, Human Intelligence – our people. And as the industry evolves, so does our global workforce. That is why at Aramco, we are investing heavily in developing future leaders – equipping them with new skills and the mindset to lead in a more complex energy world…I believe that together, we can help contribute to a future for this industry that is reliable, resilient, and sustainable.”

 

The GDA IDCE is an event in the Middle East for global energy industry professionals and organisations to explore partnerships and investments, exchange knowledge, address current challenges, and collaborate.

 

This year’s event brings together more than 5,000 international participants, over 150 speakers, and more than 80 exhibitors to foster innovation, sustainable growth, and downstream excellence. -OGN/ TradeArabia News Service