ADNOC has formally launched the next chapter of its Upper Zakum journey, confirming a phased development plan to expand the world’s second-largest offshore oilfield. The objective: sustainably lift production capacity from 1 million barrels per day (b/d) to 1.5 million b/d, using cutting-edge technologies and clean energy integration.

This expansion, announced in July 2025, comes as part of ADNOC’s broader collaboration with strategic U.S. energy partners ExxonMobil and INPEX/JODCO, and reinforces the UAE’s position as a low-carbon energy producer.

What’s in the Expansion?

ADNOC’s plan is structured as a staged field development, designed to boost production while minimizing emissions and offshore impact.

Key Features:

• Production Target: Increase to 1.5 million b/d, up from today’s ~1 million b/d.

• Execution Model: Phased rollout with multiple EPC packages expected across artificial islands, drilling, and infrastructure upgrades.

• AI & Remote Ops: Smart drilling and AI-enabled control systems to enhance efficiency and reduce manpower exposure.

• Clean Energy Grid Integration: Electrification of operations via ADNOC’s low-carbon power sources, part of its emissions-reduction strategy.

Strategic Partners Committed

Long-time partners ExxonMobil (28%) and INPEX/JODCO (12%) are firmly on board. The phased expansion was spotlighted during ADNOC’s joint announcements with U.S. energy firms, which covered collaborative innovation in both upstream technology and sustainable development.

This alignment strengthens ADNOC’s upstream capabilities while fostering new supply chain and digital energy partnerships.

Why It Matters for Contractors and Service Providers

The Upper Zakum expansion presents a pipeline of opportunities for companies positioned across the EPC value chain. Early indicators suggest:

• EPC contractors will be needed for upgrades to artificial islands, subsea tie-ins, and grid electrification.

• Digital service providers will find openings in AI control systems, automation, and offshore digital twins.

• Environmental and marine specialists can benefit from ADNOC’s commitment to minimizing offshore disturbance through artificial island use.

• Manpower, logistics, and support services will be vital during phased rollouts across remote sites.

This is a key moment to engage with ADNOC’s prequalification processes, as the company increasingly favors partners aligned with its in-country value (ICV) and sustainability objectives.

Who are the potential EPC Contractors

Based on EPCIntel.com‘s energy project EPC and FEED contract database, candidates for contract opportunities include:

• Archirodon – Known for its marine construction capabilities and involvement in Middle East island and quay wall projects.

• NMDC - Delivers EPC offshore expertise in subsea pipelines, platforms, dredging, and island construction for oil, gas, and energy projects.

• Petrofac – A strong regional player with a long-standing relationship with ADNOC and extensive offshore experience.

• Target Engineering Construction – A frontrunner given its performance on previous Upper Zakum EPC contracts.

• Technip Energies – Leading the FEED phase and well-positioned to secure a role in EPC, especially for subsea systems or as a consortium leader.

Awards will be split into primary packages, providing opportunities for multiple players and their supporting subcontractors and supply chains.

Looking Ahead

With ADNOC targeting 5 million b/d across its national portfolio by 2027, Upper Zakum will serve as a backbone of that growth. The phased expansion offers a rare blend of scale, innovation, and environmental responsibility—and a major opportunity for suppliers who can adapt to a more digital, decarbonized project model.

For updates on verified award announcements, stay tuned to EPCIntel.com.