Qatar Free Zones Authority
Gulf Drilling International (GDI) – Qatar’s Leading Offshore & Onshore Drilling Company
1. Introduction
Gulf Drilling International (GDI) is Qatar’s first and leading drilling services provider, specializing in offshore and onshore drilling operations. Established in 2004 as a subsidiary of Gulf International Services (GIS), GDI plays a crucial role in supporting Qatar’s oil and gas industry, particularly in offshore exploration and production.
GDI operates a fleet of advanced drilling rigs, providing high-quality, safe, and cost-efficient drilling solutions to QatarEnergy, Qatargas, North Oil Company, and international oil & gas companies.
2. Key Services & Operations
GDI is involved in a wide range of drilling and well services, including:
1. Offshore Drilling
- Operates jack-up drilling rigs for oil and gas exploration in Qatari waters.
- Works with major operators in offshore fields such as North Field and Al Shaheen.
- Provides workover and well intervention services to maintain offshore production.
2. Onshore Drilling
- Deploys land rigs for oil and gas exploration across Qatar.
- Supports QatarEnergy’s onshore gas and condensate projects.
3. Accommodation & Support Services
- Provides offshore accommodation rigs for oilfield workers.
- Offers maintenance and logistics support for drilling operations.
4. Well Services & Engineering Support
- Delivers well completion, testing, and intervention solutions.
- Conducts drilling optimization and performance enhancement.
3. Safety & Environmental Commitment
GDI follows strict safety and environmental standards, ensuring:
- Zero Harm Policy – A strong focus on health, safety, and environmental (HSE) best practices.
- Advanced Blowout Prevention Systems – Reducing the risk of well blowouts and oil spills.
- Energy Efficiency & Emission Reduction – Implementing eco-friendly drilling technologies.
- ISO & Regulatory Compliance – Adhering to ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, and Qatari environmental laws.
4. Contribution to Qatar’s Oil & Gas Industry
- Supports Qatar’s LNG & Oil Production – Essential to offshore and onshore exploration.
- Enhances National Energy Security – Provides critical drilling infrastructure for domestic and export markets.
- Develops Local Workforce – Invests in Qatari talent through technical training and employment programs.
- Boosts Qatar’s Economic Diversification – Strengthens the country’s industrial capabilities.
5. Future Expansion & Growth
- Fleet Modernization – Upgrading rigs with advanced automation and AI-driven drilling systems.
- Sustainable Drilling Innovations – Exploring low-carbon and eco-friendly drilling methods.
- Regional Expansion – Targeting new opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
6. Conclusion
GDI is a key enabler of Qatar’s energy ambitions, providing world-class drilling solutions that support the country’s oil & gas production, economic growth, and energy security. With technological advancements and sustainable operations, GDI is well-positioned to lead Qatar’s drilling industry into the future.