BackARO and Saudi Aramco Launch Pilot Program for SAIRO, a Smart Rig Optimization Platform
Dhahran, Saudi Arabia – September, 2025 – ARO and Saudi Aramco today announced the signing of a Trial and Evaluation Agreement to pilot the Saudi Aramco Intelligent Rig Optimizer (SAIRO), a proprietary software solution developed by Saudi Aramco to enhance drilling performance through data-driven insights.
The SAIRO system is designed to process drilling rig sensor data, calculate performance indicators, and deliver advanced visualizations that support monitoring, optimization, and efficiency improvements in drilling operations. Under the agreement, ARO will gain access to SAIRO to evaluate its functionalities, usability, and potential operational benefits in real-world offshore drilling environments.
The field trial, which will run for six months, aims to validate SAIRO’s ability to enhance operational performance, safety, and cost efficiency across drilling activities. Saudi Aramco will provide technical expertise and support throughout the trial period, while ARO will integrate the solution into its high-specification jack-up rigs.
Dr. Ashraf M. Altahini, VP of Upstream Digital Center at Saudi Aramco, said:
“We are excited to pilot SAIRO with ARO, leveraging data-driven insights to enhance drilling performance, safety, and efficiency, and driving innovation in offshore drilling operations. This collaboration not only validates the solution's potential, but also showcases Saudi Aramco's commitment to digital excellence, and harnessing cutting-edge technology to optimize operations, deliver greater value, and ultimately shape a sustainable energy future.”
Mohamed Hegazi, CEO of ARO, added:
“ARO is proud to stand at the forefront of offshore innovation, supporting the building of a future where the region’s energy ambitions are realized through smarter, safer, and more sustainable practices.”
Following the successful completion of the trial, both parties may explore entering into a licensing agreement to extend the use of SAIRO within ARO Drilling’s operations.
