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Two SANAD Drilling Rigs to Resume Operations in Saudi Arabia by Mid-2026

The SANAD drilling joint venture will resume operations with two suspended rigs, expected to restart in March and June 2026, with contract extensions equal to the suspension period.

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SANAD, the land drilling joint venture operated by Nabors Industries Ltd. in Saudi Arabia, has received official notices to bring two previously suspended rigs back into service. These rigs, which had their operations temporarily halted, are set to restart in March and June 2026, respectively.

Contracts Extended Based on Suspension Duration

In line with the terms agreed upon, the duration of the original contracts has been extended for periods equivalent to the downtime. No financial details regarding the amounts or the commercial conditions associated with these extensions have been disclosed. SANAD, which is co-owned by Nabors and Saudi Aramco, represents one of the largest land drilling operators in the Kingdom.

Anthony G. Petrello, Chairman and CEO of Nabors, stated that “the return to work of these rigs is a welcome event in this key market.” Although the initial reasons for the suspension of operations have not been specified, the gradual restart of these assets suggests a stabilization or adjustment of local demand for drilling services.

Strategic Positioning in the Saudi Market

The resumption comes amid ongoing adjustments to investments in the hydrocarbon sector in Saudi Arabia, which continues to align with national production priorities. SANAD, formed as part of a strategic agreement between Nabors and Saudi Aramco, plays a central role in the execution of long-term projects within the country.

Present in more than 20 countries, Nabors Industries Ltd. specializes in drilling technology and operates a significant fleet worldwide. The company remains active in providing technological solutions across drilling, automation, engineering, and energy-related digital services.

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