ADNOC Secures $60B in US Deals to Boost AI-Driven Energy Projects
The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has entered into several agreements with top US energy companies through the UAE-US business dialogue graced by US President Donald J. Trump.
These agreements have the potential to unlock $60 billion worth of US investment in UAE energy projects over the duration of the initiatives.
Among the key agreements is a landmark field development plan with ExxonMobil and INPEX/JODCO to expand the capacity of Abu Dhabi’s Upper Zakum offshore field.
In addition, ADNOC has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with Occidental to study enhancing the Shah Gas field's production capacity, from 1.45 bscfd to 1.85 bscfd of natural gas, as well as expediting the implementation of advanced technologies.
Commitment to Energy Security and Market Stability
These joint ventures reaffirm both the UAE and the US' mutual interest in securing global energy security and stabilizing the energy markets. The UAE's investments in the US energy sector are expected to amount to $440 billion by 2035 as part of the UAE's $1.4 trillion investment program in the US.
H.E. Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO, said, “The deep-rooted bilateral relationship between the UAE and the US is underpinned by our shared commitment to enabling energy abundance and we are reinforcing this commitment through these agreements with US energy majors.”
He added, “We see significant opportunities for further UAE-US partnerships across the energy-AI nexus and we look forward to working with our American partners to unlock long-term sustainable value and drive socioeconomic progress.”
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XRG Targets US with DAC Investment and Energy Expansion
ADNOC’s XRG is prioritizing US investments across gas, LNG, chemicals, and infrastructure. It signed a deal with Occidental’s 1PointFive to explore a Texas DAC project removing 500,000 tons of CO₂ annually.
XRG may fund up to a third of the project. Separately, EOG Resources secured the first US-awarded unconventional oil concession in Abu Dhabi, with ADNOC overseeing exploration.
ADNOC will oversee exploration activities and has the option to join the subsequent production concession.
Upper Zakum’s phased development will use AI and advanced tech to boost capacity while cutting emissions through remote operations and clean energy integration. Shah Gas field will also expand to support UAE industry and increase LNG exports.
