SMELTER OF THE ROBUST

FUTURE PERFORMANCE
Sohar Aluminium Abdulrahman Al-Hatmi,
Group CEO, ASYAD

www.businessliveme.com July 2019

Enhanced Oil
Recovery
UNLOCKING THE
POTENTIAL
 EDITOR’S NOTE

TAPPING NEW
No 69 July, 2019

SMELTER OF THE ROBUST

FUTURE PERFORMANCE
Sohar Aluminium Abdulrahman Al-Hatmi,
Group CEO, ASYAD

OPPORTUNITIES
www.businessliveme.com July 2019

Enhanced Oil
Recovery
UNLOCKING THE
POTENTIAL

P
etroleum Development Oman (PDO) operates in some of the most complex and
challenging oil and gas fields and is among the world leaders in Enhanced Oil
Recovery (EOR) techniques, pioneering the use of polymer, steam and miscible
Editorial gas injection on a full-field scale.
Group Editor & Director - Business Operations
Mayank Singh
Deputy Editor More than 23 per cent of PDO’s production is expected to come from Enhanced
Oil Recovery (EOR) projects by 2025. PDO is continuing to identify novel EOR
Oommen John P

DESIGN technologies that have the potential to unlock difficult hydrocarbon resources and
Creative Director
Sandesh S. Rangnekar further reduce the technical costs of these developments. This is being done through a
Senior Designer series of dedicated laboratory and field testing programmes in collaboration with local
Aliya Saif AlWahaibi
Principal Photographer
and international institutions. Considerable focus has been placed on ensuring that PDO
Rajesh Rajan identifies technologies that will unlock the large difficult hydrocarbon resource base
Senior Production Manager - within Block 6. Other research initiatives target cost optimisation of the current and
Print & Digital future EOR developments.
Ramesh Govindraj

MARKETING
Meanwhile, Middle East oil demand growth is foreseen to be balanced for the
Assistant General Manager – Sales & Marketing
Avi Titus remainder of 2019, with some negative uncertainties, including geopolitical
Business Head
Shivkumar
concerns, substitution programmes with other fuels, as well as subsidy reduction
Advertising Managers policies. Improvements in the oil price environment should translate to a positive
Sanjeev Rana
Shaikh Ahmed Maqbul Basha
overall outcome for economic activities, hence lending some kind of support to oil
Girija Shankar Mohanty demand in 2019. Transportation fuels – gasoline and diesel fuel – are anticipated to
Asst. Manager - Business Support be the products leading oil demand growth.
Radha Kumar

CORPORATE
Chief Executive Officer
Atulya Sharma
Executive Vice President Enjoy reading the issue!
Alpana Roy

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An Presentation
 CONTENT

16
COVER STORY

UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL

20 MANUFACTURING

Smelter Of The Future

MORE
26 LOGISTICS 28 CEO SPEAK
3 Oman News

5 In the news

30 Market Watch

Robust Performance Making A Difference

34 Auto

2 July, 2019
 OMAN NEWS

OMAN OIL MARKETING COMPANY TO LAUNCH STEERS

AND DEBONAIRS PIZZA AT ITS SERVICE STATIONS
Oman Oil Marketing Company
(OOMCO) has signed an agreement
with Famous Brands, Africa’s largest
branded food services franchisor, to
bring two of its most popular restaurant
chains to Oman.

Steers and Debonairs Pizza will thus

be introduced at OOMCO’s service
stations by the end of 2019, with a view
to opening 20 outlets in the next five
years. OOMCO’s MEGA service station
at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), set
to open in the second half of this year,
will be the first service station to host
the two franchises.
With a footprint of over 650 outlets,
the award-winning Debonairs Pizza is
the largest chain of pizza restaurants
in South Africa. Since 1991, this chain
of restaurants has witnessed rapid
growth and has gone to great lengths
to delight customers’ taste buds. On
the other hand, Steers opened its doors
in Johannesburg during the 1970s and
specializes in serving flame-grilled
burgers and handmade chips. To date,
Steers has over 600 restaurants around
the world.
The restaurants’ arrival is part of
OOMCO’s commitment to provide more
and better services while becoming
the most customer-centric marketer in
the GCC. Other well-known brands
at OOMCO’s service stations in the
Sultanate include Café Amazon, Burger
King, Costa Coffee, McDonald’s and
Subway. OOMCO service stations also
host many convenient facilities such
as ATM machines, pharmacies, Ahlain
convenience stores, Car Care centers
and telephone kiosks.

PDO AND EJAAD COLLABORATE ON 4IR RESEARCH

Petroleum Development Oman (PDO)
has signed an agreement with The
Research Council to conduct research
on the overall impact of the Fourth
Industrial Revolution (4IR) on jobs
in the oil and gas sector through
Ejaad, the platform to boost R&D
collaboration between industry and
academia in Oman.

The study will explore the effect of

4IR on employment trends, stable,
emerging and declining roles and job
opportunities over the next five to ten
years in PDO and its direct contractor
community.
The study, which is made up of three
phases, is aimed to be concluded by
end of the year (2019).
The first phase of the study will
identify and map out potential jobs
that will be eliminated, developed
or created due to the use of different
4IR technologies within PDO and its
contractors.
The second and third phases will then
focus on building the Company’s
competency framework for emerging
jobs as well as provide capability
building proposals, recommendations
and implementation plans in relation
to the current and future workforce of
PDO and its contractors.
Ejaad Director Dr Abdullah Al Abri
said, “We are delighted to sign this
consultancy agreement with PDO to
look at the promising upside of 4IR
into PDO’s business portfolio and
potential implications on jobs and
associated competency development
programmes.”

KBR AWARDED FEED
CONTRACT FOR OMAN
LNG’S DEBOTTLENECKING
PROJECT
KBR, Inc. has been awarded a Front End
Engineering Design (FEED) contract by
Oman LNG LLC for the debottlenecking
of their facility at Sur.
Under the terms of the contract, KBR
will provide FEED services for the
debottlenecking project to increase
production at its world-class plant in Sur.
This FEED stipulates KBR performing
full FEED services including licenser
and vendor management and associated
services.
“This project builds on KBR’s
extensive track record of developing
ENI SIGNS GAS
AGREEMENT WITH
ALGERIA’S SONATRACH
Eni has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with Algeria’s
Sonatrach to renew a contract to
supply natural gas to Italy.
“This MoU represents a further step
towards the strengthening of the long
4 July, 2019
OMAN NEWS
and implementing LNG projects
and providing solutions to complex
developments around the world,” said
Jay Ibrahim, KBR President, Energy
Solutions - Services.
KBR will act as an extension to Oman
LNG’s project team and help manage the
overall execution of the project including
the management of the supply and
ensure all areas of compliance and safety
are adhered to. The contract underpins
Oman LNG’s robust commitment
towards knowledge sharing and boosting
staff competency in dealing with such
complex projects, while enhancing Oman
term relationship between the two
companies and set the basis of a new
contractual framework taking into
account the changes in the market
conditions,” Eni said in a statement.
The agreement includes transportation
LNG’s enriched In-Country Value (ICV)
efforts.
“We are excited to be a part of this
important project and to continue to grow
and maintain our presence in Oman,”
continued Ibrahim. “This indicates
KBR’s strategic commitment to deliver
our differentiated services and develop
our presence and long term commitment
to Oman, support its in-country value
initiatives and to develop a highly skilled
in-country engineering capability.” A
pioneer in the LNG industry, KBR has
designed and constructed one-third of the
world’s LNG production.
arrangements through the pipeline
crossing the Mediterranean Sea for the
forthcoming years. Eni CEO Claudio
Descalzi and Sonatrach’s CEO Rachid
Hachichi signed the MoU that will
extend the current contract, which runs
until the end of 2019.

PDO’S RABAB HARWEEL
INTEGRATED PROJECT
STARTS PRODUCTION
Petroleum Development Oman’s (PDO)
Rabab Harweel Integrated Project (RHIP)
has entered the start-up phase with gas
production from the first sour wells,
marking a key milestone for the mega
project and coming two months ahead of
schedule.
This represents a significant step in the
commissioning process and work is
progressing to initiate and stabilise the
hydrocarbon processing facilities and to
line up more wells. The plant’s capacity
will be ramped up in the coming weeks.
RHIP is an integrated oil and gas
development across the Rabab and
Harweel reservoirs in southern Oman,
which demonstrates many aspects
of innovation, capital efficiency and
sustainability. It is the largest capital
project in PDO’s history, representing
a reserve add of more than 500 million
barrels of oil equivalent.
PDO Managing Director Raoul Restucci
IN THE NEWS
said, “Rabab Harweel is a world-class
addition to our portfolio, coming in
ahead of plan and well below budget.
The investment returns are substantial,
and, importantly, robust at low oil prices.
This world-class, highly technical and
complex project has been delivered
by a team of skilled Omanis with an
impressive safety record, overcoming
significant logistical, technical and
operational challenges. It is a great source
of pride to everyone in PDO. I also want
to take the opportunity to commend our
strategic partners, Petrofac, CCC and Al
Turki Enterprises for the sterling delivery
and proficient collaboration.”
The facilities were built to handle the
production of oil and gas from the
Harweel oil reservoirs via miscible
gas injection (MGI) – an enhanced
oil recovery mechanism pioneered by
PDO - and the production of gas from
the Harweel and neighbouring Rabab
reservoirs. Gas and oil production from
RHIP will provide additional revenue that
will contribute to economic growth.
PDO Project Delivery Manager Shihab
Al Barwani said, “The start-up of RHIP
marks a significant milestone for the
project. Everyone involved should
be very proud of the work that has
been delivered to reach this point. The
project combines human endeavour and
ingenuity from across the world and here
in Oman. We are proud to be working
with our local communities, suppliers
and partners to ensure its safe, reliable
operations into the future. RHIP forms an
integral part of PDO’s portfolio and plays
an important role in our growth journey
and Oman’s economy as a whole.”
A large number of Omani contractors and
vendors, many from the local community,
were involved throughout the project.
Fabrication of pressure vessels, process
columns, pre-assembly pipe rack
modules, power and instrument cables
were supplied by Omani companies.
In addition, around 200 Omanis were
trained as certified 6G welders (the
highest international standard) through
PDO’s National Objectives programme,
specifically to work on the project.
Restucci added, “The project has created
a huge number of jobs and development
opportunities for PDO, local suppliers
and contractors, as well as adding to the
company’s sour gas expertise, which we
can leverage regionally and globally.”

RENAISSANCE SELLS TOPAZ TO DP
WORLD IN $1.079 BN DEAL
The Board of Directors of Renaissance
Services SAOG have received and accepted
a final binding offer from DP World
amounting to RO415 mn ($1.079 bn)
enterprise value for acquiring 100 per cent
shares in Topaz Energy and Marine Limited,
Bermuda (Topaz).
86.5% Topaz shares are held by
Renaissance through its ownership of
Topaz JAFZA. The balance 13.5% shares
of Topaz are owned by Standard Chartered
Private Equity /Affirma Capital (SCPEL).
Under the terms of the proposed transaction,
Renaissance shall also receive a settlement
from Topaz of an outstanding RO30.2
Million shareholder loan. DP World’s
final binding offer is subject to regulatory
consents and approvals, including
Renaissance shareholder approval.
Renaissance acquired Topaz in 2005
when Topaz was a single-region
operator and extended operations to the
Caspian by acquisition of BUE Marine
Services. Topaz has since expanded and
consolidated its footprint in the Caspian
Sea, grown organically and through
M&A in the Middle East, and developed
operations into West Africa and the subsea
segment. The company today operates a
modern and versatile fleet of 117 vessels
globally with a strong presence in the
Caspian Sea, MENA, and West Africa
regions, with long-standing trusted
relationships with many of the leading
international and national oil companies,
including BP, Tengizchevroil, Chevron,
ExxonMobil, Dubai Petroleum, Saudi
Aramco and Dragon Oil. Topaz’s focus on
securing long term contracts in strategic
markets has resulted in a more resilient
performance compared with competitors
and allowed it to successfully navigate
the turbulence of the global oil and gas
industry. Topaz employs over 2,500
6 July, 2019
IN THE NEWS
Sameer Fancy
people and reported consolidated FY2018
revenues of $349 Million.
Through this divestment, Renaissance
and SCPEL are passing Topaz on to new
ownership that has the synergies, capital
strength and global reach to take the
company forward to new heights. DP
World can build on the solid platform of
Topaz achievements to date, ensuring
best practice safety, continuously
improving standards, security, opportunity
and growth in the interests of all
stakeholders: employees, partners, clients
and customers, bankers, bond holders,
professional advisers and other service
providers in the whole Topaz community,
in its key markets around the world.
Renaissance has announced and pursued
a liquidity event for Topaz over the past
year, including the possibility of a sale of
equity. This transaction fulfils a number
of Renaissance objectives set out in that
strategy: to de-risk the company; de-
leverage the balance sheet; meet pending
capital obligations; and strengthen liquidity.
The first priority shall be to de-leverage,
including the SCPEL obligation, a
repurchase of the Perpetual Notes and the
reduction of borrowing.
Samir J Fancy, Chairman, Renaissance,
Stephen Thomas
said,” We are happy with the outcome
for Topaz – we acquired a small regional
OSV player almost 15 years ago and
transformed it into a global leader
with a unique market positioning and
reputation. Thanks to a prudent and
considered business model focused on
excellence of service, long term strategic
customer relationships and contracts
we have been able to successfully
navigate one of the toughest crises in
the oil industry. This transaction fits
our announced strategic intentions
and sets a solid platform for growth in
our Services Solutions and Facilities
Management businesses, which are less
capital intensive, and offer significant
opportunity to build scale and value.”
Stephen Thomas, CEO, Renaissance
Services said, “This is a win-win solution
for everybody involved. It’s a good deal
for the buyer. Renaissance aspires to be the
best service solutions company. We expect
profitability to treble when the Renaissance
Village Duqm reaches 100 per cent
occupancy. Plans are on the anvil to double
the capacity in Duqm.”
The Board of Directors of Renaissance
will call for a general meeting with its
shareholders on July 29, to present the offer
from DP World for their approval.
PDO ANNOUNCES NEW
TRAINING-FOR-EMPLOYMENT
PARTNERSHIPS
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO)
has announced new employment
initiatives in collaboration with partners
to train young Omanis to work in sectors
outside the oil and gas industry.
The company recently signed two
agreements with Oman Air, and another
with Daleel Petroleum LLC. The latest
initiatives aim to provide employment
opportunities through training for
employment, direct hire, redeployment
and on-job training.
The agreements were signed by PDO
Managing Director Raoul Restucci,
Oman Air Chief Executive Officer Eng.
Abdul Aziz Al Raisi, Oman LNG CEO
Harib Al Kitani, and Daleel Petroleum
Managing Director Zhang Jianli at PDO’s
Knowledge World venue in Muscat.
The first agreement with Oman Air will
provide for the training of 98 pilots at
the Oman Aviation Academy, an offset
of the Omani Authority for Partnership
for Development (OAPFD). The
training, which will be jointly funded
by PDO and Oman Air, will last for 30
months. The successful graduates will
then take on employment at Oman Air.
The second MoU with the national
carrier will support the training of 150
jobseekers in cabin crew positions at the
Oman Air Training Centre in Muscat.
This opportunity will be co-funded
with the Oman LNG Development
Foundation, which has earmarked a
designated amount to jointly fund a
training-for-employment programme
through PDO’s established National
Objectives scheme.
PDO Managing Director Raoul Restucci
said, “Job creation is a national priority
and we are pleased to be working with
reputed partners to intensify our efforts
in this regard. It is through mutual co-
operation that we can make the most
significant difference.
“PDO is proud to support His Majesty’s
call to create sustainable jobs and will be
working even harder in the future, both
on our own and in collaboration with
other organisations, to reach that goal.”
Oman Air CEO Abdul Aziz Al Raisi
said: “Oman Air’s long-term partnership
with PDO demonstrates the airline’s
strong commitment to the Sultanate’s
policy of Omanisation. We take great
pride in providing a unique platform to
young Omanis wishing to gain valuable
international aviation experience
of the highest standards. We are
committed to providing Omani citizens
with sustainable career development
opportunities, both in our home market
of Oman, as well as in over 55 overseas
markets that we operate to.
“At Oman Air, we aim to deliver world-
class training to young Omanis looking
to pursue rewarding careers with the
airline. We look forward to welcoming
the batch of 248 candidates to our pilot
and cabin crew training in the coming
months.”
PDO is also joining forces with Daleel
Petroleum, whereby both parties will
jointly fund training for employment
programmes for jobseekers in a variety
of economic sectors. The two-year
agreement will supplement the job
creation efforts of both parties and will
open up the doors for more contractors
to take the pledge of employing
successful trainees.

SHELL OMAN’S SOLAR PANELS TO LIGHT
UP LIVES AT CHILD CARE CENTRE
On the occasion of Islamic Orphan Day,
Shell Oman has signed a Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) with the
Ministry of Social Development
(MoSD) for the implementation of
an integrated solar power system and
educational program at the Child Care
Centre in Al Khoudh.
The signing ceremony took place
as part of an Iftar event hosted in
celebration of Orphan Day and was
held under the patronage of Minister
of Social Development HE Sheikh
Mohammed Bin Said Al Kalbani. The
MoU was signed by HE Dr Yahya Bin
Badr Al Ma’awali, Undersecretary at
the Ministry of Social Development,
Chris Breeze, Shell Oman Country
Chairman, and Dr Mohammed
Mahmood Al Balushi, Chief Executive
Officer of Shell Oman Marketing
Company SAOG. The event was
attended by dignitaries, representatives,
and key staff from Ministry of Social
Development, Shell Oman, and various
charitable associations in Oman.
According to the MoU, Shell Oman
will provide the Child Care Centre
with solar power panels for power
consumption, in addition to rolling
out an educational STEM (Science,
8 July, 2019
IN THE NEWS
Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
program called NXplorer.
Dr Mohammed Mahmood Al Balushi,
Chief Executive Officer of Shell Oman
Marketing, said, “Shell Oman has
always been on the forefront when it
comes to taking the innovative and
effective path to create a positive
impact in people’s lives. In continuing
our journey of being leaders in the
drive for change, we are delighted
to partner with Ministry of Social
Development for the implementation
of the integrated solar power system
and educational program at the Child
Care Centre in Al Khoud. This initiative
comes in line with Shell Oman’s
ongoing commitment to promote energy
transition and sustainability within
Oman, foster the development of the
small and medium-sized enterprise
(SME) sector by empowering local
SMEs with the knowledge the business
opportunities the project will provide,
and boost interest among Omani youth
in STEM educational streams, thereby
contributing to Oman’s future energy
scene and its economic transition.”
“Shell Oman’s purpose is to power
progress together; by providing more, as
well as cleaner energy solutions. We are
pleased to join hands with the Ministry
of Social Development to install solar
photovoltaic (PV) panels at the Child
Care Centre in Al Khoud. This will help
reduce operating costs of the Centre and
displace some electricity that is generated
by burning precious gas, thereby reducing
CO2 emissions,” said Chris Breeze,
Shell Oman Country Chairman. “This
follows our successful Solar into Schools
initiative, which is aimed at inspiring
young Omanis about renewable energy
sources and STEM; and plays a future
role in the Sultanate’s energy transition.”
As part of this initiative by Shell Oman,
one of the Shell Intilaaqah-trained Omani
SMEs will support the solar power
installation, while helping train the
relevant personnel within the Ministry
on its maintenance and care. In addition
to this, a proper energy efficiency
evaluation-analysis will be done to
identify areas of improvement for the
Centre in the future.
The introduction of NXplorer, an
innovative educational program that
introduces youth and future leaders to
complex and creative thinking, will help
to bring about a positive change in the
children’s mindset. NXplorer focuses
on Energy, Water, and Food, builds
awareness and knowledge of energy
problems, and stirs the youths’ interest in
STEM from an early age.
Shell Oman’s sustainable social
investment initiatives continue to
build a platform for developing and
implementing projects in Oman for the
benefit of the youth, while contributing
to the nation’s energy transition and In-
Country Value agenda.
OXY OMAN SIGNS
CONTRACTS WITH
TWO FIRMS
As part of its in-country value (ICV)
strategy to support locally manufactured
materials and maximise expenditure
on goods and services made in Oman,
Occidental Oman signed two new
contracts with LAMAD LLC and Oilfield
Inspection Services (OIS).
By virtue of these contracts, LAMAD
will provide Occidental Oman with
metering services; while OIS will provide
Occidental Oman with tubular inspection
and repair services.
The signing ceremony was held at
Occidental Oman’s headquarters in
Muscat, under the auspices of HE Salim
Nasser al Aufi, Undersecretary at the
Ministry of Oil and Gas. Stephen Kelly,
the President and General Manager of
Occidental Oman; Ibrahim al Mahrouqi,
owner of LAMAD; and Saif al Tobi,
CEO of OIS; were signatories for their
respective organisations.
Abdulkarim al Ghassani, Vice- President
for Supply Chain; and other senior
executives of Occidental Oman were
present at the ceremony.
The awarding of the contract to LAMAD,
a newly established local Omani SME,
was based on the Vendor Development
Programme, which is an ICV initiative
aimed to develop local companies into
a new capacity where very limited local
companies are currently delivering.
“As a newly established SME, this
contract will help us seize the opportunity
to grow further with metering services in
Oman. We highly appreciate the trust that
Occidental Oman placed on us and we
hope to thrive together,” said Ibrahim al
Mahrouqi, owner of LAMAD. a competitive Omani supply chain,”
said Kelly. This event makes concrete
In addition, the contract with OIS, which the efforts exerted by Occidental Oman
will provide tubular inspection and repair to contribute to the Government’s ICV
services, was signed as part of Occidental strategy.
Oman’s ICV initiative.
The signed contracts show Occidental
“We are excited by the opportunities this Oman endeavour to support economic
award will provide, and we feel confident development in the country under the
that together we will facilitate and serve umbrella of strategic partnerships and
industry demands. The award is also continuous collaboration with key
a recognition of our determination to stakeholders.
provide quality services of the highest
standard,” said Saif al Tobi, CEO of OIS.
“The Occidental Oman ICV strategy
aims to increase and improve the
sustainable development of Omani
goods and services, both locally and
internationally.
Occidental Oman looks to its In-Country
Value Programme as a stepping stone
to increasing the diversification of the
economy, as the programme reaffirms our
wide-ranging commitment in developing

PDO DAY CELEBRATES STAFF
EXCELLENCE
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO)
recently celebrated its annual PDO Day
which is held every year to mark the
anniversary of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos
bin Said’s historic official visit to the
Company’s Bait Mina Al Fahal (BMF)
headquarters building in 2013.
The event, which was held under the
auspices of HE Dr Mohammed bin
Hamed Al Rumhy, Minister of Oil and
Gas, recognised the achievements and
contributions of PDO staff who are
behind the Company’s success.
It included PDO’s annual awards
ceremony incorporating the 15th
Chairman’s Award for Excellence (CAE)
and the seventh Dr Abdulla Al Lamki for
Developing Talent Award (DALTA).
The winner of the CAE Gold Technical
Award was the Exploration Directorate
for its adoption of an integrated
exploration and maturation approach
at Rakid South, located in the south of
PDO’s concession area. This has resulted
in the discovery of 61 million barrels of
oil near existing infrastructure, thereby
reducing operating costs and enabling
10 July, 2019
IN THE NEWS
early monetisation of the find. The cost of
the discovery was also very competitive
at just $1.1 a barrel.
PDO Managing Director Raoul Restucci
said the achievement provided clear
evidence of how the Company would
sustain its production ramp-up to a new
plateau of 670,000 barrels per day in the
next five years.
The winning CAE Gold entry in the Non-
Technical category came from the Health,
Safety and Environment department
for Ihtimam, a new and highly targeted
behaviour-based safety system to cater for
the safety requirements of the oil and gas
sector and other industries.
Launched in 2018, Ihtimam has already
led to a step change in safety culture at
the Company, exemplified by significant
improvements in safety metrics including
Lost Time Injury and Total Recordable
Case Frequencies. More than 6,000 PDO
and contractor staff are currently using
Ihtimam with 10,000 more expected to
follow suit this year.
In his keynote address to staff at the
event, Restucci said: “The sort of
ingenuity and the excellence on show
today will be invaluable as we stay the
course in the exciting times ahead.
“As well as pursuing and delivering
excellent standards and outcomes in our
daily work, exemplified by the terrific
award entries and winners, we must
continue our focus on the key strategic
priority of delivering greater value to the
nation while adapting to change and new
ways of working which are vital to our
future success.”
Said Mohamed Al Maashari, Production
Strategy and Support Team Leader
in PDO’s Oil North Directorate, was
named as the DALTA winner. He was
recognised for his significant efforts to
inspire colleagues and go the extra mile to
mentor young Omani graduates.
The company also announced the launch
of a new award for the Best Water
Management Project, in tribute to the
efforts in this area by former Technical
Director Amran Al Marhubi, who recently
retired after nearly 40 years at PDO.
DALEEL PETROLEUM
WELCOMES SUMMER
INTERNS AND MARKS
WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY
Daleel Petroleum welcomed the 2019 batch of 57 trainees to the
annual Summer Internship programme. Students` training is part
of their academic curriculum which Daleel supports as part of its
commitment towards community.
The internship experience is a golden opportunity for under
graduate students to apply their academic knowledge into dynamic
work practices.
Daleel offered 57 seats this year from various educational local
and international institutions as well as the IAESTE programme.
The students underwent an induction programme that covered all
areas and disciplines of the oil & gas industry.
The interns are posted in different departments including both
locations; Daleel Head Office, the field and the rigs. Daleel
Petroleum extends support by providing a positive environment
that would enrich interns learning experience and allow
exchange of ideas that will ultimately lead to enhancement of
their skills and knowledge.
Towards a Greener Future
Daleel Petroleum annually marks the World Environment Day
by raising awareness among employees through activities
while joining the world in its efforts to make a difference. This
year, the theme was #BeatAirPollution. The United Nations
promotes positive action against environmental issues. This
is a call to all industries, companies, government as well as
individuals to join hands in making the world a better place for
the future generations.
Daleel Petroleum joined the worldwide efforts by organising
a workshop for its employees. A number of employees were
engaged in a greening campaign to plant trees with the guidance
and expertise of the specialist who delivered the workshop. The
soil and other components used applied an eco-friendly approach.
Additionally, a recycled pen with tomato seeds embedded in it
was distributed to employees to promote environmental – friendly
behaviour at home. Daleel is committed towards its responsibility
towards the environment.
 OMAN NEWS
SHELL OMAN EXPANDS WITH FIVE NEW
INTEGRATED SERVICE STATIONS
Shell Oman Marketing Company has signed an agreement
with the Ministry of Housing to build an integrated service
station on Batinah Expressway.
The agreement was signed in the presence of HE Sheikh Saif
bin Mohammed Al-Shabibi, Minister of Housing, and Dr.
Mohammed Mahmood Al Balushi, Chief Executive Officer
of Shell Oman Marketing Company. As per the agreement,
Shell Oman has been awarded a bid to build an integrated
service station on Batinah Expressway. In addition to this,
the company has also announced that it will invest in three
more service stations on Batinah Expressway as well as one
service station on Adam-Thumrait Highway via strategic joint
ventures and dealership models with Omani partners.
The five new state-of-the-art service stations, each with a
30,000 sqm area, will leverage Shell Oman’s unique access
to cutting-edge technical expertise and knowhow from Shell
Global, while bringing together a team of Omani engineers
from Shell Oman to develop the design in collaboration with
an Omani SME.
The new integrated service stations strengthen Shell Oman’s
position as a preferred brand in the industry in Oman, that
caters to the evolving needs of customers by providing non-
fuel offers and services as well as Shell fuel range of M91,
M95 and Shell V-Power, Shell Oman’s best performance
and efficiency fuel, along with Diesel and Shell lubricants.
Provisions for electric vehicle charge points and other cleaner
fuel solutions will also be present at the new stations.
Dr. Mohammed Mahmood Al Balushi, Chief Executive
Officer of Shell Oman, said: “We have a long-term
strategy that aims to capitalize on the major investments in
12 July, 2019
infrastructure projects and maturing industrial and logistical
hubs in the Sultanate. Al Batinah Expressway is considered
one of the most important national milestones, and we are
committed to continue investing in the Sultanate and support
the government’s vision for the future. Both Al Batinah
Expressway and Adam-Thumrait Highway contribute to the
integration of the various modes of transportation as well as
interconnectivity between logistical hubs in Oman such as
ports, airports, and industrial and economic areas. We aspire
to fulfil the needs of commuters using these roads and offering
them enhanced customer experience that is safe, innovative
and convenient.”
Shell Oman is already the leading brand in the industry with over
190 strategically located service station across the Sultanate.
“Shell Oman has been consistently delivering innovation and
pioneering technologies with world-class quality products
and services while contributing to the Sultanate’s growth and
sustainable development. Shell Oman is known for its sustainable
business practices and highest international standards, especially
when it comes to HSSE, operational excellence and ethics.”
Dr. Mohammed Mahmood Al Balushi added.
In line with its commitment to sustainability and in keeping
with its In-Country Value (ICV) agenda, the company will
be investing in environmentally sustainable solutions such
as solar energy to power the sites along with latest water
recycling and waste management facilities.
Khalid Al Awaisi, Retail Country Manager in Shell Oman,
commented, “Our strategy is to make Shell service stations go
beyond just providing fuel, it is rather about making people’s
life’s journeys better. We are continuously working to enhance
our portfolio of product and service offerings that are unique
to Shell Oman. In addition to these five sites, we are also
exploring potential opportunities to invest in other sites on key
road networks. This comes in line with our commitment to our
long-term growth strategy of investing in the retail network
through opening new Shell service stations or upgrading the
already existing ones; with our customers’ satisfaction and
convenience being the key driver.”

OSC SIGNS AGREEMENT
WITH DAEWOO TO BUILD
3 NEW VLCCs
Oman Shipping Company (OSC), a
member of the Asyad Group, has signed
an agreement with South Korea’s
Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine
Engineering (DSME) to build three
environmentally-friendly very large
crude carriers (VLCCs) as part of the
company’s fleet renewal strategy.
Through its new assets, OSC will
enhance its competitive advantage and
solidify its position as both a market
leader and as one of the top 12 VLCC
operators worldwide. The new orders will
provide customers with additional high-
quality, economical and technologically-
advanced vessels, the company said in a
press statement. Once operational, OSC
OMAN NEWS
predicts that the three VLCC new builds
will increase company’s oil shipping
revenues by 10 per cent. Long-term
contracts with international oil majors are
already in place for all the ships.
“The announcement has been made
possible by OSC’s commitment to
reinvest in additional growth - increasing
connectivity between Oman’s ports and
global ports in response to expanding
customer demand and reinforcing the
sultanate’s logistic competitiveness,” the
company said.
Each of the new vessels will be 336m
long and 60m wide and will be able to
hold 300,000 tonnes of cargo. All of
the new orders will also meet future
environmental requirements – including
IMO 2020 standards – as well as benefit
from DSME’s market-leading efficient-
design for new builds.
Signing the agreement with DSME
on behalf of OSC, Asyad Group chief
executive officer Abdulrahman al Hatmi
said, “OSC’s capabilities and customer
offering are growing from strength
to strength in response to increasing
demand. OSC’s fleet renewal programme
reflects the company’s commitment to
high-quality services, enhanced global
connectivity and industry-leading
competitiveness.”
Brilliant Performance
Deserves a Star-Rating

AIWA SPECIAL AWARDS

MOST INNOVATIVE START-UP
EXCELLENCE IN SME DEVELOPMENT
MOST PROMISING ENTREPRENEUR
EXCELLENCE IN BUILDING NATIONAL TALENT
EXCELLENCE IN CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
EXCELLENCE IN CORPORATE LEADERSHIP
INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY AWARD
CEO OF THE YEAR
YOUNG BUSINESS LEADER
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
 AUGUST 2019 I MUSCAT

OMAN’S TOP PERFORMING BUSINESSES

WILL BE HONOURED SOON.
The 9th Edition of AIWA Awards, is gearing up to recognise the MSM-listed Small Cap,
Mid Cap & Large Cap enterprises who have delivered an inspirational performance in 2018,
and Omani Corporate role models for the next generation.
For partnership enquiries, please contact
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 COVER STORY

UNLOCKING THE
POTENTIAL

PDO is continuing to identify novel EOR

technologies that have the potential to
unlock difficult hydrocarbon resources and
further reduce the technical costs of these
developments. Oommen John P reports

16 July, 2019
More than 23 per cent of Petroleum
Development Oman’s production is
expected to come from Enhanced Oil
Recovery (EOR) projects by 2025.
PDO is currently operating a range of
commercial-scale EOR projects including
chemical EOR, miscible gas injection
(MGI) and thermal applications.
The Marmul Polymer phase 1 and phase
2 projects were commissioned in 2010
and 2015 respectively with a total oil
contribution of 17.7 million barrels
of oil to date. The average combined
production gain from both phases in
2018 was 6,500 bpd, an increase of
13%. Work is continuing on the third
phase to further improve on execution
readiness. The project will develop 61
million barrels of incremental oil, with
first oil by Q1 2023, according to PDO’s
Sustainability Report for 2018.
Gas injection in the Birba field has been
ongoing for the past 24 years, and has
yielded an additional 45.7 million barrels
of oil with a total field recovery factor of
21%. To-date, 5.95 billion cubic metres
of gas have been injected and we are on
target to achieve up to a 50% recovery
from infill horizontal drilling and
additional gas injection.
The Harweel 2AB project (Zalzala field)
started miscible gas injection (MGI) in
earnest in April 2014 at a constrained
rate of up to 1.7 million cubic metres
per day and ramped up to a full-capacity
injection rate of up to 4.5 million m³/d
since January 2015 after separator
replacements. To date, 3.81 billion
m³ of gas have been injected. A clear
response to the MGI process has been
established in terms of incremental oil
rates (incremental oil to date of around
14.1 million barrels (2.24 million m³),
and target pressures above the minimum
miscibility pressure across the field. The
expected total recovery with MGI is
about 50%.
Injection in Sakhiya field as part of
the Sakhiya mini-flood project has
continued since mid-2015 with high
injectivity of up to 2.1 million m³/d
from three injectors. To date, 1.47
billion m³ of gas have been injected and
a positive reservoir pressure response
has been observed as the depletion rate
slows down. The thermal gas-oil-gravity-
drainage (T-GOGD) process in Qarn-
Alam has been underway since late 2011.
Up to 2018, 266 million tonnes of steam
were injected into the Shuaiba oil-bearing
formation, producing 83 million barrels
of oil and resulting in a steam-to-oil ratio
of approximately three. Project record
levels of steam injection were achieved
with peak rates exceeding 17,000
tonnes per day. The Amal steam project
continues to improve in all areas, and the
year-average oil production for 2018 was
10,611 bpd. There was a continued strong
steam injection performance with 2018
representing the highest annual average
injection rate of around 7,854 tonnes per
day. There was improved availability of
heat recovery steam generators in Amal
West and more once-through steam
generators in Amal East, and a thermal
response has now been demonstrated
in both fields. Reservoir performance
continues to improve with good cold and
thermal performance. So far, 231 wells
have been drilled in the Amal West 3.3
acre infill project.

FIELD TRIALS AND EOR
RESEARCH
Concurrently, PDO is continuing to
identify novel EOR technologies that
have the potential to unlock difficult
hydrocarbon resources and further
reduce the technical costs of these
developments. This is being done through
a series of dedicated laboratory and field
testing programmes in collaboration
with local and international institutions.
Considerable focus has been placed
18 July, 2019
COVER STORY
on ensuring that PDO identifies
technologies that will unlock the large
difficult hydrocarbon resource base
within Block 6. As an output from these
alliances, technologies such as foam
and low tension gas have been tested in
the laboratory and have shown positive
results. Other research initiatives target
cost optimisation of our current and
future EOR developments. Work is
ongoing to expand surfactant polymer
application for more viscous oil that,
if successful, will allow for additional
volumes to be matured. Currently, a
focused effort on cost optimisation
of the next phase of chemical floods
is ongoing – polymer and alkaline
surfactant polymer – to allow for robust
technical and development costs in view
of the high price volatility environment.
In addition, 2018 ended with the positive
conclusion of the Haima West trial where
polymer was injected in a lower quality
reservoir extending the boundaries of
polymer application.
 MANUFACTURING

SMELTER OF
THE FUTURE
True to its reputation as a technology and innovation-driven
company, Sohar Aluminium is harnessing the transformational
potential of the 4th Industrial Revolution in its quest to
position itself as the ‘Smelter of the Future.’ An OGR Report

.
.
. 20 July, 2019
Sohar Aluminium is on the cusp of yet
another exciting, if momentous, leap into
the future, this time around aided by a
raft of emerging technologies that form
part of the 4th Industrial Revolution.
From Mobile Connectivity, Artificial
Intelligence and Big Data to Robotics,
Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine
Learning, Industry 4.0 has the potential
to accelerate the digital transformation
under way at Sohar Aluminium.
DAUNTING MISSION
Notwithstanding the universal
buzz surrounding the 4th Industrial
Revolution, the IT and Automation Team
at Sohar Aluminium is little fazed by
the daunting task ahead of them. After
all, keeping Sohar Aluminium on the
cutting-edge of smelting technology and
operational excellence has been their
overarching goal from the outset of the
company’s launch a decade ago.
“Sohar Aluminium has embraced some
elements of Industry 4.0 ever since
we came on stream and we continue
to evaluate new technologies and
innovations as they materialise. This is
a continuous journey of improvement
which we don’t foresee an end to,”
explained Abdullah Al Maamari, IT
Manager.
Indeed, automation – a key facet of
Industry 4.0’s suite of breakthrough
technologies has long been the hallmark
of Sohar Aluminium’s investment in a
modern smelter. Advanced automation
technologies are a defining characteristic
of the company’s operations. Similarly,
robotics is an integral part of the
company’s Casthouse operations,
eliminating any potential for human
interaction with unsafe material
handling, thereby reducing the risk of
injury to its operators. Robotic cranes
assist in the stacking of the refined metal
bundles and applying labels to them.
A potential game-changer for Sohar
Aluminium is the Internet of Things
(IoT) – an ecosystem of connected
machines, equipment, devices and
physical objects that can communicate
with each other. “In our case, we use
the Industrial IoT, which connects all
of our systems with the enterprise,”
said Ibrahim AL Maawali, Automation
Superintendent “Thus, all of the data
from the shop floor, production units, and
so on, is captured on our dashboards in
real time. Right now, we are evaluating
various IoT solutions that add value to
our business.”
Equally promising is the deployment of
Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial
Intelligence (AI) solutions to improve
process control at Sohar Aluminium.
With a combination of ML and AI, the IT
and Automation team sees the potential
to automatically record, network and
use numerous machine and system
parameters that can be harnessed to plan
downtimes, increase productivity, and
drive quality.
Not surprisingly, some elements of
Machine Learning are already part of
Sohar Aluminium’s processes – the result
 MANUFACTURING

of an abiding commitment to staying

abreast of technology, according to
Paul Ridgway, Automation Specialist.
“Machine Learning has been around
for quite some time, under the guise of
Intelligent Systems. It’s only now been
rebranded as Machine Learning. Still, we
are looking into the use of ML in some
of our processes to better formulate our
set-points, and so on.”

Data Analytics – another Industry 4.0

technological offering is also proving
handy in enhancing maintenance
and operational processes at Sohar
Aluminium. “We use our historical
data to forecast equipment failures
and process deviations. This improves
our uptime and allows us to do more
proactive maintenance rather than
reactive and it also enables us to achieve
a high level of operational production,”
said Ibrahim.

22 July, 2019
 SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
“We are now at a very exciting phase where we transition from ensuring stable operations
towards growth and sustainability. This is all due to the trust that our stakeholders have
put in us, and the trust we have in our people. We have set our new strategic goals
taking a quantum leap towards what we aspire to be, an international market leader in
Aluminium smelting,” says Said Mohammed Al Masoudi, CEO, Sohar Aluminium.

“The use of renewable energy is a big focus for us as we evaluate the possibilities in the
region and integrating it in our business model where pertinent. Our future plans majorly
focus on exploring the possibilities of introducing value added products and increasing
Said Mohammed Al Masoudi our customer base to bring more value to our shareholders and to the community at
large. Of equal importance are our people development and empowerment. Many of
our endeavours are invested in developing the technical skills of our current and future employees through ties with the
academic field and our own training institute. We hope thereby to continue improving our performance and increase our
productivity aiming for long-term sustainability and positively contributing to the national economy.”

Industry 4.0 promises to unleash a wide
range of game-changing benefits for
Sohar Aluminium, says Paul. “Sohar
Aluminium believes that Industry
4.0 helps in improving productivity,
efficiency, safety, resource utilisation,
increasing machines uptime and reducing
breakdowns by using smart sensors
and such technologies. Also, it enables
self-diagnosis, reducing turnover time,
preventing breakdowns, reducing the
human intervention which will reduce
human errors.”
Abdullah, Ibrahim and Paul are part of
a core team of subject experts drawn
from the company’s IT and Automation
Department with the mandate to
make Industry 4.0 a reality within
Sohar Aluminium. “We are a young,
dynamic group of professionals with
the requisite skillsets to unlock the
potential of the 4th Industrial Revolution
for the benefit of our operations. Our
management, recognising the immense
potential of Industry 4.0, is eager for the
comprehensive roll-out of these solutions
across all facets of our operations and
indeed the wider value chain.”
The adoption of Industry 4.0 tools
began in earnest last year with members
of the Core IT Team evaluating the
applicability of these technologies and
their deployment in key departments
within the organisation. At the same
time, the IT team has begun to engage
with vendors of 4.0 technologies and
solutions with a view to ascertaining
their efficacy within Sohar Aluminium.
Furthermore, as talented professionals in
their own right, members of the IT and
Automation Team have come up with
their own in-house solutions as cost-
effective alternatives to vendor-promoted
offerings.
As for a timeline to have Industry 4.0
technologies up and running within
Sohar Aluminium, there is none!
Abdullah explained: “Technologies,
by their very nature, keep evolving.
Before Industry 4.0, there were three
different waves that also evolved over
decades. Our responsibility is to look
at technologies and trends, as and when
they come on the market, that will help
us enhance our productivity, cost-
efficiency and competitiveness. Industry
4.0 is just another leg on this continuous
journey in our quest for business and
operational excellence. Besides, as some
of these technologies represent expensive
investments, we need to suitably evaluate
them to ensure there are returns for the
company.”
Mindful that the roll-out of Industry 4.0
is no small feat, Sohar Aluminium has
embarked on a plant-wide awareness
programme designed to ensure that the
company’s sizable technical staff are
fully on board in the delivery of this
ambitious project. At the same time,
the company is also engaging with key
stakeholders and local communities
on the importance of this initiative
in ensuring the safe, successful
and sustainable operation of Sohar
Aluminium well into the future.
Sohar Aluminium was formed in
September 2004 to undertake a landmark
Greenfield aluminium smelter project in
the Sultanate of Oman. Inaugurated in
2009, Sohar Aluminium is jointly owned
by Oman Oil Company S.A.O.C., Abu
Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC
(TAQA) and Rio Tinto.
 PORTS AND LOGISTICS

ROBUST
PERFORMANCE

ASYAD’s net profit is the highest to date beating 2018 actuals

and 2019 plans. Plans on the anvil for further integration,
expanded cargo connectivity, linking all the ports, growth
through digital transformation and development of future
leaders across the Group, says Abdulrahman Al-Hatmi, Group
CEO. Oommen John P reports
ASYAD Group has registered performance from the first half of 2019 our services across the value chain
impressive growth in the last six and outline keynote initiatives for the to strengthen Oman’s position as a
months due to sales increases and second half of the year, Abdulrahman logistics hub. Plans are on the anvil to
new revenue streams, resulting in a Al-Hatmi, said, “I am pleased to say link all the three ports-Duqm, Sohar
EBITDA growth of 14 per cent and a that 2019 is set to deliver our best and Salalah.”
forecast of 23 per cent growth overall Group financial performance to date.”
for 2019, according to Abdulrahman The shareholder value increased from The Majlis, which took place at
Al-Hatmi, Group CEO. 16 per cent to 22 per cent in the first Oman’s Convention and Exhibition
six months of 2019. Centre, featured overview
At the ASYAD Group Leadership presentations on current operations and
Team hosted group-wide employee LINKING PORTS upcoming plans, as well as a question
meeting—branded as Majlis The Freezones are progressively and answer session for attendees. The
ASYAD—to showcase the Group’s attracting FDI. “We are integrating event was attended by 500 employees

26 July, 2019

Abdulrahman Al-Hatmi
& stakeholders from across the Group.
The regular event aims to build
alignments and synergy through all the
operating companies that are part of
the ASYAD Group.
Among the key highlights announced
at the Majilis included:
• Group ports are forecast to see a
27% growth in bulk volumes and
14% growth in container volumes
in 2019
• 2019 FDI investment in the Sohar
and Salalah free zones has reached
$500 million this year, already
surpassing the total amount
invested in 2018
• Oman Drydock Company reached
an organisation first, servicing 19
ships in one day
• 52 million sqm Khazaen
Economic City open for business
with first international tenants
• 95% on-time deliveries from
Oman Post and 85% positive
customer feedback
• Projected 50% year on year
growth in number of passengers
by Mwasalat. Achieved a historic
43000 riders in a single day.
• National Ferries Company (NRC)
cost reductions of half a million
rials annually over the last five
years while reaching 81 per cent
Omanisation across the company.
• Net profit is the highest to date
and forecasts sustained growth in
net profit beating 2018 actuals and
2019 plans.
• Creates $100 million sustainable
efficiency improvements in its
operations
• Outlines H2 plans for further
integration, expanded cargo
connectivity, growth through
digital transformation and
development of future leaders
across the Group.
• The group plans to carry 1m TEUs
by 2023 through its shipping line.
• All the ports have ambitious
expansion plans
Looking forward to H2 2019, Al Hatmi
told participants, “Our strength as a
Group, which includes over a dozen
subsidiaries operating across the
maritime, port, shipping, transportation
and logistics sectors, comes from our
integration - sharing in each others’
progress to secure ASYAD and
the Sultanate’s position as a global
logistics leader. The upcoming rollout
of our Hub Project, connecting freight
from ship to last-mile shipment,
is a great example of how we are
all working together to add new
capabilities across the value chain.
Oman Rail, a subsidiary of Asyad
Group said that it was keen to
deliver the Mineral Line project,
a representative of Oman Rail
said. But it depends on a number
of factors including the local
economic environment. “We
are looking at Public-Private-
Partnership (PPP) model for the
implementation of the project.
Another priority for us is the
digitisation of all services and the
adoption of new technologies such
as Big Data AI, IoT and blockchain
into our operations – ensuring that
ASYAD offers one of the most
competitive, advanced, efficient and
technologically-integrated logistics
solutions worldwide. Central to all
our achievements and plans are our
employees, which is why we are
implementing Group-wide initiatives
aimed at developing talent across
ASYAD - with an initial focus on high-
potential (HiPo) employees.
Attacks on fuel tankers in the Gulf
of Oman has not had an impact on
the operations of Oman Shipping
Company, a representative of OSC
informed. Mark Geilenkirchen, CEO
of Port of Sohar, informed that there
was no impact on vessel movement
in and out of Port of Sohar. “I hope it
continues to remain calm.”
However, National Ferries Company,
which offers high speed ferry services
between numerous destinations along
the Omani coast, said its financials
have been impacted due to the ongoing
tensions. “We have seen a 36 per cent
variation in insurance premiums since
the tanker attacks in Gulf of Oman.
This has impacted our financials.”

MAKING A
DIFFERENCE
It is said only two things can stop a
person from asking for help. An excess
of pride. Or an excess of humility. I
am here to ask for your help. And I
wish I could say that it was an excess
of humility that has delayed this
request. In some ways I am not going
to ask for anything new. Some of your
companies already help us, as we help
them. By working together. Finding
ways forward that work for both sides.
Creating something greater than the
sum of our parts.
AMBITION
But what I am going to ask for is
a deepening of that approach. An
expansion. An entirely different level
of ambition. Because I do not believe
the world is moving fast enough to
tackle climate change. But I do believe
that action taken by business, working
together, has the potential to change
that. And I truly believe acting now is
in our interests, as business people.
28 July, 2019
CEO SPEAK
Speaking at The Times CEO Summit in
London, UK, Ben van Beurden, CEO of
Shell, speaks about the need for supply
and demand to work in harmony if the
world is to tackle climate change
The energy transition to a lower-carbon
future is under way. Shell probably
feels that dynamic more than most.
Maybe that is why it is me asking for
help, even though I can see the way
ahead has diversions and roadblocks
that need to be navigated.
But my business, and your business,
must find ways to thrive in this energy
transition. And making sure our
businesses are in harmony with the
Paris Agreement is the best way of
doing that. It is an essential investment.
So I am asking for your help to establish
a form of action. Action that businesses
can take. A difference we can make.
As I say, this would be a significant
expansion of work already being done.
The Oil and Gas Climate Initiative,
a group of oil and gas companies
dedicated to Paris, does great
work enabling practical action on
climate change.
The Energy Transitions Commission
as well. And some of you will know
about the UN Secretary General’s
climate initiative, due to report in
September. It is striking in the way it is
focused on getting business to step up
their decarbonisation ambitions.
But all this will not be enough without
some serious commitments to action.
NET ZERO EMISSIONS
The whole world must stop adding to
the stock of greenhouse gases in the
atmosphere. It must reach net zero
emissions. Some say by 2070, others
2050. Some countries can go faster
than others, and Shell has supported a
letter calling for the UK to reach net
zero emissions by 2050.
But whichever timeframe you pick,
I believe getting to net zero requires
unprecedented, coordinated action
across each sector. Of course, climate
change is, in large part, about the way
energy is used. The use of energy
products, like oil and gas and coal –
for power, heating, cooling, industry,
transport – causes the majority of the
world’s greenhouse gas emissions. So
changing the mix of energy products
in the energy system is essential to
address climate change. But making
that shift is not just a question of
supply but of demand too.
A large part of demand comes down
to individual consumer choices. And it
is here that governments have a huge
role. Regulation. Consumer signals,
like well-designed, well-balanced
taxes. Incentives, like electric car
grants. Government-led carbon-pricing
mechanisms to encourage low-carbon
choices. But governments need help.
Paris needs help.
TOGETHER
That is why I believe companies
that supply energy, like Shell, must
work with the sectors that use energy.
We must work together, supply and
demand, to progressively decarbonise
the energy use sectors. And, because
time is so short. I believe we will also
need to learn by doing. Act and refine.
The process would have to start with
the major businesses within specific
energy-use sectors coming together with
the energy industry. Coming together
to work out how each sector needs to
change to be fully in line with Paris.
Each sector is different, and some
are highly fragmented, so the action
needed will vary. An office-based
industry like accounting can largely
decarbonise by switching to a
renewable electricity supply, but that
is not an answer for steel or cement.
Textiles can move more quickly than
chemicals. Electronics is one case,
heavy freight another.
But all energy-use sectors need to
be clear. They must get to net zero
emissions. Every part must act
to progressively lower its carbon
intensity until it hits zero. And this
single carbon intensity measure
can be used to track progress of
companies and energy-use sectors
across the entire global economy.
Realistically, this will have to start
with a handful of big players in any
given sector joining with energy
companies... with the determination to
act towards net zero in that sector and
establishing a pathway to reaching it.
Whatever the pathway, there are three
ways to make progress along it.
First, improve energy efficiency.
Second, turn to lower-carbon energy
products. Third, offset or store away
emissions that cannot be avoided. How
these would be balanced and combined
would be different for each sector, and
all sectors would need all three.
CHOICE
But that is not the end of the story.
There is a fourth way forward – and
I have touched on it already, when
I mentioned consumer choice. The
world must address consumption
patterns. From consumers who choose
to eat strawberries through the winter.
To industries where the default could
be recycling products, not making
from scratch. And governments
which embed decades of high-carbon
consumption through decisions made
on housing, transport and power.
An energy company cannot set
consumption patterns on a national
or global scale. It simply cannot. It
can only try to help make the carbon
intensity of that consumption as low
as possible.
A company like Shell, on the supply
side, can help by selling a mix of
energy products with a lower carbon
intensity, such as renewable power or
hydrogen. Shell has an ambition to
cut the carbon intensity of the energy
products we sell by around 50%
by 2050. This is a rate of reduction
consistent with Paris. And it means
Shell will, over time, radically change
our portfolio.
On the demand side there are other
questions. What fuels can be used.
How efficiently they are used. In
powering transport for example. A
hydrogen fuel dispenser, obviously,
needs hydrogen-powered vehicles. And
how light is the vehicle? How efficient
the motor?
OPPORTUNITY
And this is where I see an opportunity.
Because I am certain that, by working
together, these are areas where
business can make a big difference.
Does that mean it will be easy? No.
State-owned enterprises, embedded
practices, the need to allow countries
to develop as others already have.
There will be many challenges.
COALITION
I am not standing here offering the
answers, but with the desire to work
with others – with you – to try to find
those answers. I know this can only
succeed if Shell is one small part of
a global climate coalition. But I also
know that the world must achieve the
goal of the Paris Agreement. And if
energy providers and energy users,
supply and demand, do not take co-
ordinated action, time will run out.
Climate change will overtake us.
So I hope you feel able to help build
this climate coalition. I hope you will
contribute to working out how this
might succeed in your sector. I hope
we can, together, help establish real
progress – rapid progress. I stand
here today asking for your help. Not
with pride. Not with humility. But
in the knowledge that it is needed.
Because we have no alternative but
action. No time but now. No plan
but Paris. Let’s find a way, together,
starting today.
 MARKET WATCH

SUSTAINABLE
GROWTH
Middle East oil demand growth is foreseen to be balanced
for the remainder of 2019, with some negative uncertainties,
including geopolitical concerns, substitution programmes
with other fuels, as well as subsidy reduction policies.
Improvements in the oil price environment should translate
to a positive overall outcome for economic activities, hence
lending some kind of support to oil demand in 2019, according
to OPEC Monthly Oil Market Report-June 2019

30 July, 2019
WORLD OIL SUPPLY
Non-OPEC oil supply in 2019 is
expected to grow at a pace of 2.14
mb/d, y-o-y, following a robust
increase of 2.91 mb/d in 2018. The
2019 non-OPEC supply assessment is
unchanged from last month, despite
some downward revisions for the US,
due to lower-than-expected output in
1Q19, and for Norway and Brazil due
to lower-than-expected production in
3Q19 and 4Q19. These revisions are
offset by upward revisions to China,
and the UK. The US is projected to
remain the main driver for non-OPEC
supply growth in 2019 adding 1.83
mb/d y-o-y, followed by Brazil, Russia,
China, Australia and the UK.
At the same time Mexico, Norway,
Kazakhstan, Indonesia and Vietnam are
projected to see the largest declines.
OPEC NGLs and non-conventional
liquids y-o-y are expected to grow
by 0.08 mb/d to average 4.84 mb/d
in 2019, following growth of 0.13
mb/d in 2018. In May 2019, OPEC
crude oil production is estimated to
have decreased by 236 tb/d, m-o-m
to average 29.88 mb/d, according to
secondary sources.
CRUDE OIL PRICE
MOVEMENTS
On a monthly average, the OPEC
Reference Basket (ORB) eased in May
despite several planned and unplanned
supply outages. The Brent and Dubai
price spreads, first-to-third month,
widened further, mirroring a tightening
physical market and concerns about the
supply outlook.
On a monthly average, the ORB value
decreased m-o-m by 81¢, or 1.1%, to
settle at $69.97/b in May. Apart from
Angolan Girasol, Venezuelan Merey
and Algerian Saharan Blend, all ORB
component values decreased alongside
their perspective crude oil benchmarks,
while firm official selling prices and
crude oil differentials limited losses.
Crude oil futures prices ended May
at their lowest levels since February,
with ICE Brent falling by more
than $7, or about 12%, during the
month, and NYMEX WTI posted
about a $10, or 19% slide. Oil
prices registered higher volatility,
particularly in late May, fuelled by
uncertainty about the world economy
and the impact on global oil demand.
Oil futures declined severely on
signs of slowing economic growth
and growing concerns about the
global economic and oil demand
outlook amid intensifying trade
tensions between the US and China.
In May, ICE Brent declined on
average $1.33, or 1.9%, m-o-m to
$70.30/b, while NYMEX WTI fell
m-o-m by $3.01, or 4.7%, to average
$60.87/b. On an annual average,
ICE Brent was $3.47, or 4.9%, y-o-y
lower at $66.75/b, while NYMEX
WTI declined by $7.11, or 10.9%,
y-o-y to $57.97/b. DME Oman crude
oil futures also declined m-o-m
by $1.35 in May, or 1.9% over the
previous month, to settle at $69.85/b.
On a yearly average, DME Oman
was down by 83¢, or 1.2%, y-o-y at
$66.52/b.
Hedge funds and other money
managers saw their bullish positions
decline in May, after posting four
consecutive months of increases.
Speculators liquidated long positions
over the month, particularly for the
US crude NYMEX WTI, and raised
their bearish short positions on the
basis of concerns about the world
economy, the global oil demand
outlook, escalating trade tensions and
rising US crude oil stocks.

The Brent and Dubai price structure
moved deeper into backwardation in
May, despite a sharp decline in oil
prices, as prompt-month prices were
supported by healthy physical crude
oil demand and supply disruptions in
several countries. The possibility of
more disruptions in oil supply added
support to prompt prices. However,
the WTI price structure remained in
contango as sustained US oil supply at
high levels kept the US crude market
well supplied, while US crude stocks
continued to increase.
Apart from European grades, the
global premium of light sweet-to-
medium sour crudes widened further in
May, despite a tight sour crude market.
Brent/Urals spread narrowed slightly
due to Urals supply disruptions.
THE OIL FUTURES
MARKET
Crude oil futures prices ended May
sharply lower and reached their lowest
levels since February, with ICE Brent
falling by more than $7, or about 12%,
during the month, and NYMEX WTI
posted about a $10, or 19% slide. Oil
prices registered higher volatility,
particularly in late May, fueled by
uncertainty about the world economy
and the impact on global oil demand.
Oil futures declined severely on signs
of slowing economic growth and
CRUDE OIL FUTURES, $/B
Apr 19
NYMEX WTI
ICE Brent
DME Oman
Transatlantic spread
(ICE Brent-NYMEX WTI)
Note: Totals may not add up due to independent rounding.
Sources: CME Group, Dub ai Mercantile Exchange, Intercontinental Exchange and OPEC Secretariat.
32 July, 2019
MARKET WATCH
growing concerns about the global
economic and oil demand outlook
amid intensifying trade tensions
between the US and China, after the
move to impose additional tariffs,
which triggered steep declines in
equity markets. Weakening refining
margins, a subdued performance by oil
products, consecutive weeks of rising
US crude oil inventories, and sustained
historically high levels of US oil
supply also weighed on prices.
Oil prices declined further in late
May, along with equity markets and
other commodity prices, after the US
President announced plans to impose
tariffs on imports from Mexico, which
amplified worries and uncertainty to
the markets, pushing equity indexes
and commodity prices sharply lower.
This all dampened the impact of
several planned and unplanned
supply outages that were reflected
in the widening backwardation
structure in Brent and Dubai, as well
as heightened geopolitical tensions
in several regions. Nonetheless,
high conformity levels with the
voluntary production adjustments
of the Declaration of Cooperation
continued to support the market.
In May, ICE Brent declined $1.33,
or 1.9%, m-o-m to $70.30/b, while
NYMEX WTI fell m-o-m by $3.01,
Change
May 19 May/Apr
63.87 60.87 -3.01
71.63 70.30 -1.33
71.20 69.85 -1.35
7.76 9.44 1.68
or 4.7%, to average $60.87/b. On an
annual average, ICE Brent fell $3.47,
or 4.9%, to $66.75/b, while NYMEX
WTI declined by $7.11, or 10.9%,
y-o-y to $57.97/b.
DME Oman crude oil futures also
declined m-o-m by $1.35 in May, or
1.9% over the previous month, to settle
at $69.85/b. On a yearly average, DME
Oman was down by $0.83, or 1.2%,
y-o-y at $66.52/b.
On June 12, ICE Brent stood at
$59.97/b and NYMEX WTI at
$51.14/b.
MIDDLE EAST
SAUDI ARABIA
In Saudi Arabia, the first four months
of 2019 indicated flat oil demand
growth as declines registered in
March and April oil demand data
counterbalanced positive growth
exhibited during the first two months
of the year. April oil demand figures
indicated a decline in oil requirements
of 0.03 mb/d or 2% y-o-y.
Crude oil used for the purposes of
burning in the power generation
sector, gasoline and diesel fuel all
recorded negative performance, despite
improving fuel oil demand during the
month of April. Crude oil for direct use
Year-to-date
% 2018 2019
-4.7 65.09 57.97
-1.9 70.22 66.75
-1.9 67.35 66.52
21.7 5.13 8.78
MIDDLE EAST OIL DEMAND, Y-O-Y CHANGE SAUDI ARABIA’S DIRECT CRUDE BURNING,
Y-O-Y CHANGE
change y y change
tb/d tb/d tb/d
600 600 150

400 400 100

50
200 200
0
0 0 -50
-200 -200 -100
-150
-400 -400
-200
Feb

Apr

Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Mar

May
Jan

Jun
Jul

-250

Mar 19
Feb 19
Aug 18
Sep 18

Nov 18
Dec 18
Oct 18
Apr 18
May 18

Apr 19
Jun 18
Jul 18

Jan 19
Historical range Historical average
2018 2019
Sources: Joint Organisations Data Initiative, Sources: Joint Organisations Data Initiative,
direct communication and OPEC Secretariat. direct communication and OPEC Secretariat.

in power generation eased by as much
as 0.11 mb/d in light of substitution
by fuel oil and natural gas. On the
other hand, fuel oil demand recorded
gains of 0.15 mb/d due to higher-
than-anticipated demand for power
generation, as well as substitution
with crude for burning. Total crude oil
demand for the purpose of burning was
at 0.28 mb/d in April, while total fuel
oil demand was at 0.45 mb/d during
the same month.
Diesel fuel continued its downward
trend, which started in 1Q16, as
government infrastructure project
activities showed signs of slowing
down. Cement deliveries during the
month of April dropped by more than
9% y-o-y, an indication of slower
construction activity in the country.
Diesel fuel requirements shed some
0.03 mb/d or around 5% y-o-y.
Total diesel fuel demand is now at
0.52 mb/d. Transportation fuels in
general were also declining, with
gasoline dropping by around 7% y-o-y.
A reduction in subsidies and general
slowdown in consumer spending are
cumulatively negatively influencing fuels, as well as subsidy reduction
product performance. policies.
IRAQ On the other hand, improvements
In Iraq, the positive momentum in in the oil price environment should
oil demand performance during the translate to a positive overall outcome
first three months of 2019 flipped into for economic activities, hence lending
negative territory, with oil demand some kind of support to oil demand in
dipping by 0.10 mb/d y-o-y during the 2019. Transportation fuels – gasoline
month of April. and diesel fuel – are anticipated to
be the products leading oil demand
The decline was primarily linked to growth.
slower performance from heavy fuels,
mainly direct crude oil for power In 2018, Middle East oil demand
generation and fuel oil. Conversely, declined by 0.08 tb/d, while oil
light and middle distillate products demand in 2019 is projected to
recorded some gains. Substitution increase by 0.03 mb/d.
by natural gas is apparently the main
cause of declines in power generation
fuels during April.
TOTAL PRODUCT
DEMAND IN APRIL
REACHED 0.64 MB/D.
Looking forward, Middle East oil
demand growth is foreseen to be
balanced for the remainder of 2019,
with some negative uncertainties,
including geopolitical concerns,
substitution programmes with other

POWERFUL
AND ELEGANT
Ferrari’s first plug-in hybrid supercar – the SF90 Stradale is
also the first Ferrari sports car to be equipped with 4WD
Ferrari has introduced a new chapter in
its history with the introduction of its first
series production PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid
Electric Vehicle), the SF90 Stradale.
The new model is extreme on every
level and represents a true paradigm
shift, because it delivers unprecedented
performance for a production car.
Figures such as 1,000 cv, and a weight-
to-power ratio of 1.57 kg/cv, and 390
kg of downforce at 250 km/h not only
put the SF90 Stradale at the top of its
segment, but also mean that a V8 is the
top-of-the-range model for the first time
the marque’s history.
The car’s name encapsulates the true
significance of all that has been achieved
34 July, 2019
AUTO PAGE
in terms of performance. The reference
to the 90th anniversary of the foundation
of Scuderia Ferrari underscores the
strong link that has always existed
between Ferrari’s track and road cars.
A brilliant encapsulation of the most
advanced technologies developed in
Maranello, the SF90 Stradale is also the
perfect demonstration of how Ferrari
immediately transitions the knowledge
and skills it acquires in competition to its
production cars.
The SF90 Stradale has a 90° V8 turbo
engine capable of delivering 780 cv, the
highest power output of any 8-cylinder
in Ferrari history. The remaining 220
cv is delivered by three electric motors,
one at the rear, known as the MGUK
(Motor Generator Unit, Kinetic) due
to its derivation from the Formula
1 application, located between the
engine and the new 8-speed dual-clutch
transmission on the rear axle, and two on
the front axle. This sophisticated system
does not, however, make for a more
complicated driving experience. Quite
the opposite, in fact: the driver simply
has to select one of the four power unit
modes, and then just concentrate on
driving. The sophisticated control logic
takes care of the rest, managing the flow
of power between the V8, the electric
motors and the batteries.
The SF90 Stradale is also the first
Ferrari sports car to be equipped with
4WD, a step necessary to allow the
incredible power unleashed by the hybrid
powertrain to be fully exploited, ensuring
the car has become the new benchmark
for standing starts: 0-100km/h in 2.5 sec
and 0-200km/h in barely 6.7 seconds.
Ferrari’s engineers were able to further
broaden the spectrum of dynamic
controls by introducing the full-electric
front axle, known as the RAC-e
(electronic cornering set-up regulator).
As well as exclusively providing
propulsion in electric drive, the two front
motors independently control the torque
delivered to the two wheels, extending
the concept of Torque Vectoring.
Fully integrated into the car’s vehicle
dynamics controls, the RAC-e governs
the distribution of torque, making driving
on the limit much simpler and easier.
Another major innovation is the steering
wheel which now has a touchpad and
a series of haptic buttons that allow
the driver to control virtually every
aspect of the car using just their thumbs.
The central instrument cluster is now
entirely digital with the first automotive
application of a 16” curved HD screen
which can be fully configured and
controlled using the controls on the
steering wheel.
POWERTRAIN
The SF90 Stradale is the first ever
Ferrari to feature PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid
Electric Vehicle) architecture which sees
the internal combustion engine integrated
with three electric motors, two of which
are independent and located on the front
axle, with the third at the rear between
the engine and the gearbox.
The internal combustion engine and
the electric motors work in synergy
to unleash an incredible 1,000 cv
which means the SF90 Stradale sets a
whole new benchmark in terms of its
performance and innovative content not
just with regard to the Ferrari range, but
also its competitors.
INTERNAL COMBUSTION
ENGINE
Thanks to its 780-cv power output, the
turbo V8 featured in the SF90 Stradale
raises the bar for the performance limits
achievable by this type of architecture.
The starting point was the F154 family
engine which has won the International
Engine of the Year award for the fourth
consecutive year, an unprecedented
achievement for any power unit.
Together with its 195 cv/l specific
power output, which is the highest in
the segment, the engine also delivers
800 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. To
deliver this extraordinary result, Ferrari’s
engineers focused on several different
areas of the engine, starting by increasing
its capacity from 3,902 cc to 3,990 cc
thanks to a larger bore of 88 mm.
The intake and exhaust system was
completely redesigned and now features
a new, narrower cylinder head with a
central injector and the adoption of 350-
bar GDI, another first for a Ferrari V8.
To improve the internal fluid dynamics,
not only was a larger diameter intake
valve adopted but the ducts are all
horizontally lined up at engine head
height; the turbo charger assembly has
been lowered while the exhaust line is
higher, as testified by the fact that the
tail pipes are now in the upper section
of the rear bumper. The turbos are now
equipped with electronically-controlled
wastegates to improve catalyser heating
and new compressor volutes to optimise
fluid-dynamics.
The re-engineering goes well beyond
fluid-dynamics: the rationalisation of the
layout has resulted in both a lower centre
of gravity, thanks in part to the adoption
of a smaller-diameter fly wheel, and a
reduction in overall weight thanks to the
use of Inconel instead of steel for the
exhaust manifold. Meticulous attention
was lavished on sound quality when
redesigning the exhaust system and the
result is fuller, richer harmonics across
the entire frequency range.
7 YEARS MAINTENANCE
Ferrari’s unparalleled quality standards
and increasing focus on client service
underpin the extended seven-year
maintenance programme offered with
the SF90 Stradale. Available across the
entire Ferrari range, the programme
covers all regular maintenance for the
first seven years of the car’s life. This
scheduled maintenance is an exclusive
service that allows clients the certainty
that their car is being kept at peak
performance and safety over the years.
This very special service is also available
to owners buying pre-owned Ferraris.
Regular maintenance (at intervals of
either 20,000 km or once a year with
no mileage restrictions), original spares
and meticulous checks by staff trained
directly at the Ferrari Training Centre
in Maranello using the most modern
diagnostic tools are just some of the
advantages of the Genuine Maintenance
Programme. The service is available
on all markets worldwide and from all
Dealerships in the Official Dealership
Network.
The Genuine Maintenance programme
further extends the range of after-
sales services offered by Ferrari to
satisfy clients wishing to preserve the
performance and excellence that are
the signatures of all cars built at the
factory in Maranello which has always
been synonymous with leading-edge
technology and sportiness.
HEALTH
SULTANATE TO HOST
AHWP ANNUAL MEET
FROM NOVEMBER 11
The Sultanate will host the 24th Asian
Harmonisation Working Party (AHWP)
annual meeting accompanied by a
Medical Device Exhibition at Grand
Millennium Hotel, in Muscat from
November 11 to 14.
Organised by the Ministry of Health
(MOH), represented by the Directorate-
General of Pharmaceutical Affairs and
Drug Control (PADC), around 250-
300 participants including regulators
from more than 30 countries along
with representatives from IMDRF
(International Medical Device
Regulators Forum), ISO (International
Standards Organisation), APEC (Asia
Pacific Economic Cooperation), World
Health Organisation, APACmed (Asia
Pacific Medical Technology Association)
and others are expected to attend the
event. More than 60 expert speakers will
be addressing the meeting that will have
a full day of capacity building sessions.
According to Dr Mohammed Al Rubaie,
Director General of Pharmaceutical
Affairs and Drug Control at the Ministry
of Health, the meeting, which will be
attended by health experts will raise
the awareness level among health
staff on the importance of monitoring
the problems associated with the
usage of medical devices, supplies
and products. It will shed the light on
the latest developments on medical
device guidance documents through the
updates from the AHWP 9 Technical
Dr Mohammed Al Rubaie Faiza Al Zadjali
working groups covering Pre-marketing
of General Medical devices, In Vitro
Diagnostics and Software as a Medical
Device, Post-Market, Clinical Evidence
for Performance and Safety, Quality
Management System: Audit, Assessment,
Operation & Implementation, Medical
Device Standards, Unique Device
Identification and Nomenclature.”
The objective of the event is to ensure
the advancement of global healthcare,
creating a link between the leaders
and players of the healthcare industry,
building capacity of both regulators and
industry to foster innovative regulatory
solutions for medical technology
advancements, besides providing
an in-depth knowledge on the latest
medical innovations. The event will
also provide a platform to share the
latest in the medical device regulations,
discuss current issues in the medical
device sector and promote international
harmonisation and convergence and
promote research into quality and
safety improvement and networking
opportunity amongst leaders and key
stakeholders of the healthcare industry.
The organising committee comprises
among others Ali M. Al Dalaan, Vice
President – Medical Device Sector
of Saudi Food and Drug Authority as
AHWP Chair, Mohammed Al Rubaie,
DGPA & DC, Ministry of Health- Oman,
Faiza Al Zadjali, DGPA & DC, Ministry
of Health-Oman and Gao Guobiao,
AHWP Vice Chair.
The Asian Harmonisation Working
Party (AHWP) was established as a
non-profit organisation in 1996. Its goals
are to study and recommend ways to
harmonise medical device regulations in
the Asian and other regions and to work
in coordination with the International
Medical Device Regulators Forum (
IMDRF) and other related international
organisations aiming at establishing
harmonised requirements, procedures
and standards. The Working Party is a
group of experts from the medical device
regulatory authorities and the medical
device industry. Membership is open to
those representatives from the Asian and
other regions that support the above stated
goals. AHWP has more than 30 member
economies including Brunei Darussalam,
Cambodia, Chile, Chinese Taipei, Hong
Kong SAR, China, India, Indonesia,
Jordan, Kazakhstan, Bahrain, Saudi
Arabia, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia,
Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Kenya,
Singapore, South Africa, Kuwait,
Sultanate of Oman, Tanzania, Thailand,
United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, Yemen
and Zimbabwe.
BADR AL SAMAA NIZWA
UPGRADED TO ADVANCED
MULTI-SPECIALITY HOSPITAL
Board of Directors of Badr Al Samaa Group, Dr. V T Vinod, Abdul Latheef and Dr. P A Mohammed with dignitaries at
the launch of the advanced multi-specialty Hospital in Nizwa.
Badr Al Samaa has launched its
advanced multi-specialty Hospital in
Nizwa. This hospital holds the record of
being the first and only hospital currently
in the private healthcare sector in Al
Dakhiliya Governorate.
HE Dr. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Hamad
Bin Hilal Al Saadi, Governor of Al
Dakhiliyah, who was the chief guest,
inaugurated the hospital. Dr. Mazin
Jawad Al-Khabouri, Director General
of Private Health Establishments was
the guest of honour. HE Sheikh Rashid
Bin Said Al Kalbani, Wali of Nizwa
and Dr. Abdel Salam Ali Gamil, DG –
Healthcare Services, Nizwa were among
the other dignitaries present. Haitham
Rafi, the musical sensation of Oman,
performed live at the event along with
other local singers.
Dr. Mazin Al Khabouri, DG – PHE, in his
speech said, “It is satisfying to see how
Badr Al Samaa group has become Oman’s
largest private healthcare group from a
single polyclinic when I took over as DG-
PHE. Their quality has reached superior
levels, JCI accreditation of two of their
hospitals is the testimony to this fact.”
Abdul Latheef, Dr. V T Vinod and Dr. P
A Mohammed in a joint statement said,
“We are happy to announce the launch of
this hospital, it will prove a boon to the
people of Al Dhakiliya and address their
healthcare needs in a much better and
convenient way.”
This centre will be a strategic referral
centre in private healthcare sector and
would cater to masses with its quality
services. The hospital has tie-up with all
major insurance companies for cash-less
treatment. Badr Al Samaa has signed
exclusive contracts with many oil and
gas companies and established clinics
in areas like Duqm, Khazzan and so on.
The hospital will also be a referral centre
for advanced care for these off-shore
clinics. To mark the occasion, Badr Al
Samaa Hospital, Nizwa offered free
consultations from June 26 to 28, 2019
in all specialties, while consultations in
Cardiology, Urology and Dermatology
were available until July 2. The
expanded facilities include state of the
art imaging equipments and services
with provision for cardiac care, all major
and minor surgeries. Two state-of-the-
art renovated operation theatres have
been launched, equipped to handle
all kinds of General, Orthopaedic,
Urological, Neurological, Gynaec, ENT
and Ophthalmic cases. In addition,
Labour Suite, CCU, MICU, Neonatal
Intensive Care Unit (NICU) are also
available. The hospital has the first of
its kind Lasotronix Laser System for the
treatment of proctology and varicose
veins. Plans are on the anvil to add CT
and MRI along with Physiotherapy
services soon.
“The people of Nizwa and peripheral
areas will now have access to
superior healthcare services at their
door-step. . The centre will act as a
dependable referral centre for general
practitioners, clinics and other
polyclinics in the region.”
Badr Al Samaa, Sohar is going to be
the biggest green field project from the
group and is expected to be operational
by the end of 2019. It will serve as
a referral centre for entire Batinah
region. New facilities are planned in
Suwaiq and Al Mabella, Muscat and in
other parts of GCC.

EXPERT SPEAKERS TO PARTICIPATE IN WORLD
HEAVY OIL CONGRESS FROM SEPTEMBER 2
Over 100 expert speakers from around
the world are set to participate in the
10th World Heavy Oil Congress &
Exhibition (WHOC), from September
2 to 4 at the Oman Convention &
Exhibition Centre.
The Congress and Exhibition, which
is being held in Oman for the second
year running, is supported by Oman’s
Ministry of Oil and Gas and hosted by
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO).
Organisers are expecting to welcome
over 500 delegates from 80 companies
from more than 40 countries. This
year’s Congress will focus heavily
on the role of global collaborations
and governmental policy-making in
the future of Heavy Oil, as well as
the importance of harnessing new
technologies and innovations.
The Congress will include a two-day
strategic conference and three-day
technical conference alongside a three-day
international exhibition. The event will
include panels, interactive sessions, and
networking opportunities with top oil and
gas industry leaders, technology providers
and professionals from around the globe.
Jiří Hájek, Director of Development and
Innovation, and Vice Chairman of the
Board of Directors at Unipetrol, who
will be speaking at the event, expressed,
“It’s a pleasure to be taking part in this
congress, alongside some of the leading
industry veterans and top contemporary
thinkers. We expect to engage in a
meaningful discussion on how to
meet increasing demand for higher
quality products, and keep refinery
technologies and infrastructure updated
to upgrade heavy oil efficiently. We will
also be putting our heads together on
sustainability concepts and innovations,
40 July, 2019
HEAVY OIL
which is increasingly important in
today’s world.”
The Strategic Conference will host
five panel sessions and four roundtable
discussions on the entire heavy oil
value chain. Other speakers in the
conference will include Girish Srinivas,
Vice President, TDA Research; Junaid
Ghulam, Field Development Manager,
Petroleum Development Oman; and
Dr Saleh bin Ali Al Anboori, Director
General of Planning & Studies, Ministry
of Oil & Gas, Sultanate of Oman;
amongst others.
The Technical Conference Committee
examined 255 individual papers and
selected submissions showing technical
experience for eight specialist categories,
including two newly added categories;
Project Management & Operational
Excellence, and Maintenance & HSE.
From these, 110 papers were selected
and will be presented to over 3,000
international experts and specialists.
Last year’s Congress included a panel
featuring HE Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad
Al Rumhy, Oman’s Minister of Oil &
Gas, and HE Shaikh Mohammad bin
Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Oil of the
Kingdom of Bahrain.
The event is conducted under the
auspices of the Ministry of Oil and
Gas, hosted by Petroleum Development
Oman, and sponsored by JP Global
Digital as Gold Sponsor and Maha
Energy as Silver Sponsor. Ysaac
Coronado, President & CEO and Co-
founder, JP Global Digital, said “JP
Global Digital, the leading provider
of end-to-end 3D digital solutions for
the oil & gas Industry, is proud to be
a Gold Sponsor of the World Heavy
Oil Congress and Exhibition 2019.
The event provides exposure to a vast
network of businesses and SME’s,
increasing awareness of the latest trends
in technology. WHOC brings together
O&G leaders as we enter the 4th
Industrial Age”
Petroleum Development of Oman
(PDO) is supporting the Omani Local
Community Contractors (SLCCs/LCCs)
Pavilion in 2019, housing 24 exhibitors
showcasing their products and services
at the event. Through this Pavilion and
as part of its In-Country Value (ICV)
strategy, PDO aims to support and
showcase SLCCs/LCCs to other operators
across Oman. PDO is committed to
maximizing local vendors’ engagement
and services as well as improving the
capacity and capability of Omani people
in order to secure sustainable commercial
benefits for the Sultanate.
The exhibition is open to all participants
including government representatives,
project owners, consultants, contractors,
and investors to meet, do business, and
maximise the evolving opportunities
in the heavy oil sector both across the
Middle East and globally.
Petroleum Development Oman, JP
Global Digital and Maha Energy will
exhibit at the event alongside HEMA
Energy, Metscco, Nuhas Oman and
Vanguard Oil Tools & Services to
name a few.
Jiří Hájek Ysaac Coronado