Aramco and Microsoft: Partnering to develop industrial artificial intelligence

In a strategic move aimed at reshaping the digital future of the energy sector, Saudi Aramco , the global energy giant, and Microsoft , a leading technology company, signed a memorandum of understanding to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence solutions in the industrial sector. This agreement reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for digital innovation, in line with the goals of Vision 2030.

Strategic partnership to support digital transformation

This memorandum establishes a new phase of cooperation between the two parties, as Aramco seeks to leverage the Microsoft Azure cloud platform to develop advanced, AI-powered industrial solutions. The goal extends beyond simply improving operational efficiency; it also aims to enhance reliability and security in complex industrial processes. This step is an extension of Aramco's ongoing efforts to utilize Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies to boost performance and reduce carbon emissions.

Pillars of the agreement and areas of cooperation

The memorandum of understanding focuses on several key areas to ensure maximum benefit from emerging technologies, including:

• Digital sovereignty and data security: Working to develop cloud solutions that ensure data storage and processing within the Kingdom, which enhances digital sovereignty and is in line with national regulatory regulations.
• Collaborative Innovation: Exploring opportunities to develop shared intellectual property in the field of industrial artificial intelligence, which opens the door to marketing these solutions globally.
• Developing national competencies: Launching specialized training programs to qualify Saudi personnel in the fields of artificial intelligence engineering, cybersecurity, and data governance.

Executive Leadership Vision

Commenting on the collaboration, Ahmed Al-Khowaiter , Executive Vice President of Technology and Innovation at Aramco, affirmed that the company seeks to lead the digital transformation in the energy sector by building a smart and secure work environment. He noted that the partnership with Microsoft will contribute to a qualitative leap in efficiency and innovation while maintaining the highest security standards.

For his part, Brad Smith , Vice Chairman and President of Microsoft, explained that the collaboration aims to move artificial intelligence from the experimental stage to actual application at the heart of operational processes, stressing the importance of building a digital infrastructure that supports sovereignty and responsible innovation.

Expected impact locally and globally

This partnership is expected to contribute to strengthening the Kingdom's digital economy by creating new jobs requiring advanced technical skills, as well as supporting local content through the involvement of Saudi technology integration companies. Globally, these solutions will provide a model for integrating artificial intelligence into heavy industries and energy, thereby enhancing Aramco's global competitiveness.