Onshore and offshore drilling company Arabian Drilling has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with offshore drilling contractor Shelf Drilling to form a strategic alliance aimed at enhancing international offshore drilling services.

The alliance will enable Arabian Drilling to leverage Shelf Drilling's broad international operating platform and its diverse customer relationships, according to a press release posted on Zawya.

In turn, Shelf Drilling plans to utilise Arabian Drilling's high-specification jack-up rigs to fulfil specific customer contract requirements.

According to the companies, this collaboration is expected to bolster the service offerings to clients and augment their competitive edge in the offshore drilling sector.

Shelf Drilling is a shallow-water offshore drilling contractor operating across multiple regions including India, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, the North Sea, South East Asia and West Africa.

Shelf Drilling CEO Greg O’Brien added: “The alliance marks a significant step in our commitment to delivering operational excellence and best-in-class services to our customers.

“By leveraging Shelf Drilling’s extensive international presence, unique focus on safety and fit-for-purpose business strategy with Arabian Drilling's premium jack-up rigs, we are well-positioned to unlock new opportunities in our core markets and drive value for our stakeholders.”

Established in 1964, Arabian Drilling operates in Saudi Arabia’s drilling sector and has a fleet of onshore and offshore rigs serving the oil and gas industry.

Arabian Drilling CEO Ghassan Mirdad said: “The alliance gives us a clear path to execute our strategy to develop an international footprint. Shelf Drilling’s expertise and international presence will bring our advanced, high-specification rigs to new markets.

“We see a strong cultural fit and a common focus on the highest health, safety and environmental standards. The alliance is an exciting new opportunity to create value.”