Operators are under increasing pressure to maximise the performance of existing assets
Integrated Global Services (IGS), a specialist in surface protection and asset optimisation, has released new research stating that a growing share of oil and gas infrastructure across Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is operating beyond its intended design life, increasing focus on performance, reliability and efficiency
The survey of oil and gas leaders and operators found that 46% estimate 10-50% of their assets are operating beyond their original design life, while 14% report this applies to over half of their infrastructure.
Despite this, 83% of respondents said they are either somewhat or very confident in their assets’ ability to meet future demand, emphasising a gap between confidence and operational reality.
Around 65% of respondents reported significant production or throughput losses due to unplanned downtime, highlighting the operational risks associated with ageing assets.
Consequently, operators are placing greater emphasis on maximising the performance of existing infrastructure. Interest in advanced asset integrity and production solutions is rising, especially where there is clear commercial value. 77% of respondents said these solutions are viable if payback is achieved within five years.
Dennis Snijders, director Middle East and North Africa, IGS, said, “This reflects a clear shift in focus across the region. Operators are under increasing pressure to maximise the performance of existing assets. While greenfield projects attract attention, brownfield optimisation is just as critical to meeting future energy demand. The challenge is turning confidence in existing infrastructure into consistent, reliable performance.”
These findings also underline the growing tension between decarbonisation goals and cost pressures. While emissions reduction remains a priority, respondents identified investment constraints as the main barrier, highlighting the need to balance sustainability ambitions with operational and financial realities.
Snijders said, “Saudi Arabia and the UAE operate some of the most advanced oil and gas facilities in the world. As these assets mature and operational demands increase, maintaining reliability while managing cost and emissions becomes more complex. Treating asset integrity as a strategic priority will be critical to sustaining long-term performance.”
