News

Hugh Fraser, Managing Partner, is delighted to be attending the Energy Industries Council (EIC)’s ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference Business Breakfast on Monday 4 November, 7-9 am at Pearl Rotana, Abu Dhabi.

A warm welcome to HFI’s October 2024 eNewsbook.  Please click here for the interactive flipbook, and please click here for the static PDF.

HFI is delighted to note the participation of Global Underwater Hub (GUH) at ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference 2024.

As we head towards ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference 2024 on 4-7 November, the Energy Industries Council (EIC) DataStream project database is now tracking over 500 energy projects in the GCC with a total value of almost US$750bn in the period to 2030, underlining the scale of the energy sector opportunities…

HFI wishes to congratulate Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC) on the signing of its new exclusive partnership agreement with Euro Mechanical in the UAE.

It has been a pleasure to support the Global CCS Institute and to chart the Institute’s progress in the MENA region. The Institute is the leading global think tank with a mission to accelerate the deployment of CSS.

A warm welcome to HFI’s September 2024 eNewsbook. Please click here for the interactive flipbook, and please click here for the static PDF.

It was great to catch up recently with fellow GlobalScot, Ingrid Huldal, Director Sustainable Energy Solutions at Expro Group. Ingrid is steering Expro's renewable energy initiatives and leveraging her deep expertise in decarbonization and geothermal energy.

HFI was delighted to catch up recently with Doug Middleton, Regional Director Middle East & Asia of ROVOP, whom HFI has supported in the Middle East since 2017 under our DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) Corporate and Compliance programme.

Last week’s ONS 2024 has kick started the energy sector’s autumn season and we are now only two months away from ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference 2024 in Abu Dhabi, now the world’s largest energy sector exhibition and conference.

Local Partner Ventures (LPVs) play a key role in successful business expansion in the MENA region. HFI’s Establishing, Restructuring and Exiting LPVs in the MENA Region eGuidebook, Autumn 2024 Edition draws on over 20 years of experience and expertise in establishing, restructuring and exiting LPVs.

Great to catch up recently with Colin Maver, a long standing connection who has recently taken on the role of CEO of the Starn Group. Previously Colin held roles as Managing Director at R&M Engineering (Huntly) Ltd. and Director of Dron & Dickson.

Delighted to meet up with Neil Gordon (CEO) and Sam Morrison (CFO) of Sentinel Subsea based in Aberdeen.

It has been a pleasure supporting Net Zero Technology Centre and to meet  Myrtle Dawes, CEO, Roy Stenhouse, Chief Impact Officer and Craig Nicol, UAE Representative of Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC) on the ground as they ramp up in the Middle East.

HFI was delighted to meet up recently with Carl-Petter Halvorsen, VP Business Development, of CSUB in the UAE.

It has been a pleasure to support the Global CCS Institute and to chart the Institute’s progress in the MENA region.  Global CCS Institute is the leading global think tank with a mission to accelerate the deployment of CSS.

The summer weeks have offered up a great opportunity to catch up with some key HF clients and connections including WellBoss, ADS Power Chokes, WellGear, Euro Mechanical, Intervention Rentals, GD Energy Products, Odfjell, Technology and Workover Solutions and to discuss some of the key themes impacting on the Middle East…

A warm welcome to HFI’s August 2024 eNewsbook. Please click here for the interactive flipbook, and please click here for the static PDF.

It is great to support Mark Miller and Chuck Matula of Workover Solutions (WOS) to implement the company’s Middle East business expansion. Mark founded WOS in 2015 and currently serves as CEO and Chuck is VP MENA.

Very pleased to be working with various energy technology providers in the Middle East markets and privileged to be supporting Odfjell Technology following the recent acquisition of McGarian TDC, with Stuart Florance, Paul Toner and Bruce McGarian.

It has been a pleasure catching up with GD Energy Product's Riaz Jumabhoy, Vice President, Eastern Hemisphere, to discuss the MENA market at a time at which Aramco announced it has signed over US$25 bn of deals for its main gas network and Jafurah gas field.

Great to catch up with Phil Scott, Managing Director and Mourhaf Jabri, General Manager, Middle East in a week which has seen some major news for the oil & gas industry, Helmerich & Payne's acquisition of KCA Deutag for almost US$2 billion will have a major impact on the region,…

Delighted to meet up last week with Michael Purkiss, Chief Operating Officer and Ahmed Jasser, Chief Commercial Officer of Euro Mechanical. It has been very much a pleasure to work with Euro Mechanical on recent local partner ventures with HFI clients including Spinergie from France and Cleantek Industries Inc.

Hugh Fraser was delighted to meet up with Jason Watt leading WellGear’s Middle East region activity at their facility in Abu Dhabi recently.

It has been a pleasure to support ADS Services with their Middle East business expansion led by Charlie Orbell, President & CEO based in the US.

Hugh was delighted to meet up this week with Jeff McNamara, President  and Peter Moulsdale, EVP - Eastern Hemisphere of WellBoss to discuss their Middle East business expansion. Jeff is responsible for the vision, strategy, and overall direction of the company.

A warm welcome to HFI’s July 2024 eNewsbook. Please click here for the interactive flipbook version, and please click here for the static PDF version. July has seen Kuwait announce a huge offshore oil and gas discovery in the Al-Nokhatha offshore field, with KPC disclosing an estimated 3.

Coming up on the 3 September, the Energy Industries Council (EIC) is hosting its Middle East Technology Showcase in Abu Dhabi.

Hugh Fraser was delighted to catch up recently with Kevan Goodwin, Regional Sales Manager Middle East at CETCO Energy Services. Kevan and  John Fletcher, Sales Director Eastern Hemisphere are leading regional growth plans.

I am delighted to introduce HFI’s “Establishing a Middle East Regional Presence” eGuidebook. Please click here for the interactive flipbook version, and please click here for the static PDF version.

I was delighted to attend the Energy Exports Conference 2024 earlier this month in Aberdeen which included a series of informative sessions and discussions on carbon capture, offshore wind, hydrogen, and oil and gas.

Please click here for the interactive flipbook version, and please click here for the static PDF version.

HFI is delighted to introduce HFI’s “The Roadmap to Successful Ventures in the Middle East” launched ahead of EIC (Energy Industries Council)’s Energy Exports Conference 2024 being held on 11–12 June in Aberdeen.

I am delighted to introduce our Q2 update of our HFI’s ADVI - Abu Dhabi Ventures Initiative launched in the week of Make it in the Emirates 2024 in Abu Dhabi.

HFI was delighted to attend the bustling Make it in the Emirates Forum 2024 in Abu Dhabi today represented by Hugh Fraser and  Sally Reeves, HFI’s Client Relations Manager.

Hugh Fraser was delighted and honoured to be appointed as a Global Ambassador for EIC (Energy Industries Council) today at EIC Connect in Abu Dhabi.

HFI extends our warm congratulations to owner Bruce McGarian of Aberdeen based McGarian TDC, a firm specialising in the design of whipstocks, casing & packer milling, fishing & remedial products – on the successful sale of the company to Norway’s Odfjell Technology.

Please click here for the interactive flipbook and click here for the static PDF.

HFI is delighted to introduce the Q2 update of our SAVI - Saudi Arabia Ventures Initiative eGuidebook, launched in the week of MEPEC (Middle East Process Engineering Conference and Exhibition) 2024 in Dhahran – the region’s focal point for process engineering technology and know-how.

HFI was delighted to meet Stefan van Diessen, Managing Director and Maarten van Geuns, Manager Sales and Marketing of VertiDrive in April as part of VertiDrive’s Technology Showcase Day in Saudi.

HFI is delighted to introduce HFI’s Oman Ventures Initiative (OMVI) – please click here for the interactive flipbook and please click here for the static PDF. OMVI supports ventures which are centred on advanced petroleum technology and hydrogen and other energy transition ventures.

Following on from OPES 2024 in Muscat last week, it was a pleasure for HFI represented by Hugh Fraser to attend Oman Sustainability Week in Muscat today and to catch up with clients and connections.

HFI was delighted to attend vibrant OPES 2024 in Muscat this week represented by Hugh Fraser and Sally Reeves. It was a great opportunity to catch up with clients and connections old and new.

Welcome to HFI's Establishing, Restructuring and Exiting Local Partner Ventures in the MENA Region eGuidebook, which we have updated for the OPES OMAN Petroleum & Energy Show 2024 being held in Muscat on 22-24 April. You can find the eGuidebook here.

A warm welcome to HFI's April 2024 eNewsbook. Hugh Fraser International was delighted to be part of speaker panel for the EIC (Energy Industries Council) GCC Energy Market and Project Q1 Update webinar.

I am delighted to introduce HFI’s Establishing, Restructuring and Exiting Local Partner Ventures in the MENA Region eGuidebook which we have launched as we head into Q2 2024 – please see the LPV eGuidebook here.

Exciting developments in the energy sector, as Saudi Aramco has allocated an additional US$4 billion in funding over the next four years to its global venture capital arm, Aramco Ventures.

Hugh Fraser was delighted to represent HFI and be part of panel for the EIC (Energy Industries Council) GCC Energy Market and Project Update March 2024 today hosted by Anand Kumar, Business Development Manager and with Wan Afiq Naqiuddin, Energy Analyst – GCC.

Hugh Fraser was a pleased to meet up with Richard Sadler, Group Head of Procurement and Supply Chain for Score Group which has just recently celebrated its 40-year anniversary and is now part of the investment portfolio of private equity group, SCF Partners.

Hugh Fraser International was pleased to attend Day 1 of Oceanology International 2024 today at the ExCel Conference Centre in London, led by Sally Reeves, our Client Relations Manager in her home city.

Delighted to catch recently with John Fletcher, Sales Director Eastern Hemisphere and Kevan Goodwin, Regional Sales Manager Middle East at CETCO Energy Services to track their Middle East expansion.

It has been a pleasure to meet up with various clients and connections in recent weeks and we are pleased to feature Workover Solutions, ContiTech, Maxwell Oil Tools, Ashtead Technology, CSUB, Logan Energy Corp.

Advanced well technologies have been the theme of catch-up discussions with some key clients and connections of late. It was great to meet up with Peter Moulsdale, EVP Eastern Hemisphere of The WellBoss Company to discuss their Middle East expansion.

I am delighted to introduce HFI’s ADVI - Abu Dhabi Ventures Initiative (ADVI).

This week in Dubai World Hydrogen Leaders MENA is taking place from 26-29 February. The event brings together the entire hydrogen value chain across MENA and the rest of the world to accelerate global clean hydrogen development.

HFI was delighted to attend today's Technology & Supplier showcase held in Abu Dhabi, a leading EIC (Energy Industries Council) member company.

HFI is delighted to launch the Q1 2024 edition of HFI’s SAVI - Saudi Arabia Ventures Initiative (SAVI) e-Guidebook.

HFI is delighted to be attending EGYPES2024 being held in Cairo from 19th –21st February with Hadir Helal, HFI’s partner in Helal & Fraser International, a joint venture between Egyptian lawyer, Hadir Helal and Scottish lawyer, Hugh Fraser.

Hugh Fraser International was delighted to meet up with Carl-Petter Halvorsen, VP Business Development of CSUB who has now relocated to the region as part of their business expansion plans.

Delighted to meet the ContiTech Industrial Fluid Solutions team of Jan Egil Hjelle, GM Middle East & Africa, Jakob Høier Nielsen, Sales Excellence Manager and Danko Sumonja, Program Manager, at International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC) 2024 in Dhahran.

It was great to meet with Mark Miller and Chuck Matula of Workover Solutions (WOS) last week ahead of International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC) in Saudi Arabia to track the company’s Middle East business expansion.

It was great for HFI to work with Christoph Raszczyk, General Manager, Maxwell Oil Tools on the company’s Middle East business expansion. Maxwell Oil Tools is a leading designer and manufacturer of advanced composite centralizers and other tools for drilling and tubular applications.

HFI were pleased to catch up with Mukund Puranik, Senior Partner, Singhania & Co this week as India Energy Week (IEW 2024) is underway in Goa, spotlighting India's pivotal role as the world's third-largest energy consumer.

HFI is delighted to see the progress being made to support the energy transition by NZTC through the development and deployment of technologies for an affordable net zero energy industry. Since 2017 the NZTC has leveraged $0. 3bn from industry to deliver 200+ technology projects, unlocking ca.

With the International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC) 2024 now just around the corner, it was a pleasure for HFI to catch up with Steve McLoughlin of Merlin this week in Abu Dhabi. Originating from Perth in Scotland in 2007, the business is reaching out in the Middle East.

The Energy Industries Council, which today launched its latest Inside Energy February 2024 report, is currently tracking over US$220 billion of energy sector projects in the UAE, dominated by ADNOC Group’s investment in the petroleum sector.

HFI was delighted to meet with Jean Cristofari, CEO and Founder of Spinergie last week to discuss the company’s international business expansion.  Spinergie is a maritime technology company specialising in emission reduction, vessel performance and operation optimisation.

HFI was delighted to catch up last week with Phil Scott, Managing Director and Mouhraf Jabri, General Manager Middle East of the Intervention Rentals to discuss the the Middle East business expansion.

HFI was delighted to catch up last week with Sandy Chakravarty FCPA GAICD and Canaan Ridge of the Global CCS Institute and to chart the Institute’s progress in the MENA region.

EIC’s GCC Energy Market Report reported this week that its DataStream project database is now tracking 173 Saudi energy projects with a value of US$211 billion for the period 2023 – 2030, as we hit the road for 2024:-

Oil & Gas (upstream, midstream and downstream) – US$127billion (82 projects);

Power and…

HFI is delighted to congratulate Charlie Topp on the successful acquisition of a majority interest in Fluidtech Engineering LLC www. fluidtecheng. com, based in Dubai. We were privileged to represent Charlie in this new venture which has recently been completed.

The GlobalScot network in the Middle East was called upon to support 19 companies exhibiting as part of the COP28 event in Dubai. The cohort was presenting a range of energy transition technologies with hydrogen, carbon capture, energy storage and tidal power applications.

HFI was delighted to meet this week with Tulika Raj, CEO and Tim Rockell, SVP Business Development with SunGreenH2 at Herriot-Watt University Climate Hub exhibition. SunGreenH2’s ground-breaking technology allows affordable green hydrogen to be used for wide scale adoption.

Great to be attending COP28 in Dubai with Sally Reeves, HFI's Client Relations Manager. Highlights were touring the Saudi Green Initiative exhibition and meeting old friend Ibrahim Al-Alawi now with TAQA (Industrialization & Energy Services Company) in the Energy Transition Zone.

HFI was delighted to meet this week with Graeme Towndrow, President at Commercial Operations with Integrity Communications Solutions in Colorado. ICS is predominantly a space sector company serving NASA but has now turned its’ expertise to the climate challenge by offering low-cost methane sensors.

The Global CCS Institute is the leading global think tank with a mission is to accelerate the deployment of carbon capture and storage (CCS), a vital technology to tackle climate change and deliver climate neutrality.

COP28 “goes underwater” on 5 December with SUT - Society for Underwater Technology Middle East hosting a seminar at Mubarak Marine, Dubai Maritime City, focussed on the The Nippon Foundation GEBCO - General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans Seabed 2030 project.

Heriot-Watt University hosted a Climate Hub at their Dubai campus to coincide with COP28. Key themes include Coastal Futures, Sustainable Finance, Climate Action Through Partnerships, Decarbonising the Built Environment, Industrial Decarbonisation and Transport and Logistics. There are three exhibitions featuring UK CleanTech Firms, Research and Future Skills.

As we speed towards the start of COP28, HFI is pleased to attend the Energy Industries Council (EIC) "Business Breakfast" in Qatar represented by Hugh Fraser. This event highlighted Worley – Qatar and their current projects and opportunities for engagement.

HFI very much enjoyed the site visit to Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park with Hugh Fraser and Sally Reeves, HFI's Client Relations Manager.

HFI is delighted to announce that Hugh Fraser has been appointed as a specialist consultant to leading Eastern Province law firm AlSuwaiket and AlBusaiyes Co. / شركة السويكت و البصيص للمحاماة  based in Al Khobar and on, a parallel basis, Dr.

With EIC tracking US$200 billion energy projects, Aramco projecting around US$50 billion capex this year and mega projects such as NEOM city driving the energy transition in Saudi Arabia, this was a timely opportunity for HFI to participate in EIC’s KSA Industry Roundtable 2023 - “2024 Energy Industry Outlook: Opportunities,…

It was great for HFI to catch up with Dr. Bader Al Busaiyes of Al Suwaiket & Albusaiyes Law Office and his team in Al Khobar. It was an excellent opportunity to discuss current and upcoming client files in the KSA for our SAVI - Saudi Arabia Ventures Initiative.

IADC Middle East Drilling conference was opened in Al Khobar on 14th November and was introduced by Jason McFarland, President, IADC and Andy Hendricks, Chairman, IADC and CEO, Patterson-UTI. HFI was pleased to be represented by Hugh Fraser.

HFI was delighted to be represented by Hugh Fraser on the EIC (Energy Industries Council) panel session at ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference 2023 on Thursday afternoon, covering the theme of projects delays, challenges and potential solutions.

Day 3 ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference 2023 has put into sharp focus the energy sector’s growing acceptance that Net Zero 2050 is well off track. Diala Hawila of IRENA presenting on the ADIPEC strategic panel on decarbonisation, has pointed out that of the US$1.

Day 2 at ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference 2023 provided further evidence of the ‘bow wave’ of energy projects coming at the MENA region in the period to 2030.

Great start to ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference 2023 - with thanks to OGV Energy for hosting the opening breakfast, for EIC (Energy Industries Council) for their GCC energy market update and Global CCS Institute for their members update.

Very much enjoyed catching up with ex-Wood colleague, Bert Whalley, in #AlKhobar this week to discuss the #Saudi market for pressure control technology. Bert is now Middle East Regional Manager for Cactus Wellhead.

What a great night celebrating the EIC Regional Awards Dinner last week with Sally Reeves and Linda El Orm. Hugh Fraser International was honoured to be nominated as finalists for two award categories: Diversification and Service and Solutions. The awards dinner took place on the historic QE2 in Dubai.

Delighted to catch up with clients and contacts at SPE Offshore Europe 2023 in Aberdeen with Sally Reeves, Mark O'Toole and Hugh Fraser Junior and to participate in the GlobalScot network events. Thanks to all for their insights, good company and hospitality.

It was great to catch up with Frederick Oliver of Rystad Energy last week to discuss the firm’s latest analysis on the renewables and clean energy market in the UAE. The firm’s Energy Transition Outlook report published in July makes insightful reading. https://lnkd.

The EIC (Energy Industries Council) has released its 7th Survive and Thrive report featuring 96 EIC members. HFI is delighted to be included in this annual report and to be nominated in the Middle East regional awards categories for Diversification and Client Services and Solutions.

July has seen some major boosts for the CCS and decarbonisation strands of the energy sector with The Acorn Project Cluster and Viking CCS Cluster in the UK joining the East Coast Cluster and HyNet as the UK’s Track 1 and 2 approved CCS vehicles – CCS is clearly taking…

Cairo hosted a vibrant second Egyptian Mining Forum in July on the banks of the Nile, led by a keynote presentation by Petroleum and Mining minister, Tarek El Molla.

Hugh Fraser International is delighted to congratulate ACE Winches on its further expansion into the Middle East.  

ACE Winches is a specialist in the design, manufacture, and hire of winches, marine deck machinery, and the provision of associated hire personnel, led by Scottish entrepreneur, Alfie Cheyne.

The critical minerals market is seeing unprecedented growth as clean energy demand drives a strong increase in investment, according to the International Energy Agency Critical Minerals Market Review released on 11th July 2023.

The Energy Industry Council-led Energy Exports Conference held recently in Aberdeen was dominated by the ongoing energy sector opportunities in the Middle East and the EIC’s latest GCC project and market update is tracking over US$200bn projects in the UAE, dominated by ADNOC’s capex programme.

Foresight 50 shines a spotlight on compelling climate solutions by recognising Canada’s 50 most investible cleantech ventures. Foresight supports hundreds of companies from across the country in scaling their ventures and raising billions of dollars in capital to support the development of critical solutions.

Puranik & Fraser International were represented at #ETEnergyLeadership by Mukund Puranik and Hugh Fraser, hosted by Energy Times of India. Special guest at the conference was R K Singh, Minister of Power/Minister of New and Renewable Energy.

Egypt’s role as a host for COP 27 has been a catalyst for the government decision of issuing a new bill for a law offering incentives for green hydrogen and its derivatives projects.

Helal & Fraser International law office, established by Egyptian corporate/commercial lawyer, Hadir Helal and Scottish corporate/energy lawyer, Hugh Fraser believes that the Mediterranean and North Africa region offers significant opportunities in energy. The Energy Industries Council is tracking over US$60 billion of energy sector projects in Egypt alone.

HFI Petroleum Legal Solutions was delighted to attend the OWI MENA 2023 and SPE/IADC MENA Drilling 2023 Conferences in Abu Dhabi held back-to-back in May, a great opportunity to catch up with technology clients and to hear updates on new advanced technologies which are driving into the massive Middle East…

HFI Net Zero Technologies is set for a very active June with participation at the EIC’s Energy Exports Conference 2023 in Aberdeen, UK Renewables’ Global offshore Wind 2023 in London, DMG Event’s Global Energy Show 2023 in Calgary and the India Energy Leadership Summit in Delhi as opportunities for net…

The International Energy Agency’s India Energy Outlook 2021 report predicts that India will make up the biggest share of energy demand growth at 25% over the next two decades, as it overtakes the European Union as the world’s third largest energy consumer by 2030.

Hugh Fraser International was delighted to make a raft of new connections with advanced energy technology providers at the World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi. At the World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi the theme of battery storage technology was prominent.

The International Energy Agency projects that the share of nuclear energy in global electricity production must rise from 400 GW to 1,000 GW by 2050, if net zero emissions targets are to be achieved.

HFI was represented at this week’s WindEurope 2023 in Copenhagen by Managing Partner, Hugh Fraser and Client Relations Manager, Sally Reeves.

India has set down ambitious renewable targets for 2030:  30GW per annum of solar power generation, 80GW wind (onshore and offshore) and 200GW of hydrogen/ammonia, as highlighted at Mercom India Renewables Summit 2023 this month in Delhi.

HFI has boosted its Abu Dhabi Ventures Initiative ADVI team to support clients in their UAE ventures with Manel Sghari  a tri-lingual Arabic, French speaking commercial lawyer joining the existing team of Hugh Fraser, Ramzi Selouan and Linda Al Orm.

As the Egyptian Government announces a new bidding round for 8 mature petroleum field licences in Egypt, with a closing date of 15 June, Helal & Fraser International is spearheading support for oil and gas clients in the region. Read more information about the bid round here.

As India highlights its renewable energy expansion at summits this month, Puranik & Fraser International aims to be driving force for Net Zero Solutions in the region.

As Egypt looks to increase offshore wind energy projects and announces $680m Red Sea wind farm deal, Helal & Fraser International gears up to support energy ventures in the region.

Hugh Fraser International Legal Consultancy is delighted to congratulate Charlie Topp and Derek Grimley on the successful sale of Caley Energy to FourQuest Energy, which completed last week. HFI was privileged to represent Charlie and Derek on the sale side of the transaction.

As India looks to increase offshore wind energy projects Puranik & Fraser International gears up to support energy ventures in the region with Net Zero Solutions. India has a coastline of about 7600 km surrounded by water on three sides and has good prospects of harnessing offshore wind energy.

India’s future prosperity will hinge on affordable, clean and reliable energy. India is the world’s third-largest energy consuming country.

Hugh Fraser International is delighted to support the launch of Adaptive Process Solutions founded by Paul McAlister, James Muir, Robert Marshall and Frank Wurpel. Hugh Fraser International acted in relation to the initial shareholders’, directors and investment agreements.

I am delighted to announce the arrival of four new team members: Sally Reeves joins our management team as Client Relations Manager following a term with California-based AI specialists, SambaNova Systems; Manel Sghari, a French/Tunisian international trade & disputes resolution lawyer, Mark O'Toole, an Irish corporate/commercial lawyer and Niveditta Manoj,…

AI was the centre of attention at GOTECH 2023, with Hesham Zubari, CTO at Dragon Oil, leading panel discussions on the ‘Science of AI Engineering in Energy Mix Application’.

Saudi Aramco has announced massive US$160bn profits for 2022. Aramco’s projects strategies for rollout of new technologies were showcased at MEOSGEO 2023 last month in Bahrain during a series of technical presentations under a joint SPE and EAGE umbrella.

India’s manufacturing sector represents one of the most critical components of India’s growth as the nation grapples with energy security and the energy transition.

Hugh Fraser International has set our sights on the rapidly expanding solar energy sector in the Middle East, India and Africa highlighted at Middle East Energy 2023 conference and exhibition in Dubai and in the Global Market Outlook for Solar Power 2022 – 2026 Report.

Hugh Fraser International’s focus on net zero opportunities in the Middle East is being showcased this week at the Middle East Energy 2023 conference and exhibition in Dubai – key topics being covered are solar technology, green hydrogen, energy storage and energy efficiency.

HFI’s DMCC Corporate & Compliance Solutions service, offering the clear-cut optimum option for early phase business expansion into the Middle East region, has experienced strong growth following ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference 2022 in November.

Hugh Fraser International was delighted to attend the inaugural India Energy Week this week in Bengaluru. Opening the event, Narendra Modi Prime Minister of India stated:

"India’s energy security is important for the global growth, as it is the world's fastest growing economy.

The World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi kicked off the 2003 conference season. It was a welcome opportunity catch up with our colleagues at Castletown Law, led by Andrew Renton, who I have worked with since the days of the Scottish electricity privitisation programme in 1991.

Egyptian corporate/commercial lawyer, Hadir Helal, partner at Open Chance & Associates Law Firm, and Hugh Fraser, former Head of Legal at Wood, have announced the launch of Helal & Fraser International, a joint venture legal and consulting services firm to focus on energy ventures in Egypt, North Africa and the…

Specialist energy lawyer Mukund Puranik, former counsel with Reliance India, and Hugh Fraser, former Head of Legal at Wood Group, have announced the launch of Puranik & Fraser International, a joint venture legal and consulting services firm to focus on offshore wind opportunities in Southern Asia and other energy transition…

Egypt will be in the spotlight between 6 and 18 November, hosting COP27 at the Gulf of Suez. Challenges and opportunities abound as the latest Oxford Business Group Egypt country report records.

I am pleased to provide our latest update for HFI’s clients and connections, as we head towards ADIPEC 2022 in Abu Dhabi next week and COP27 in Cairo the following week.

Global CCS Institute, led by Jarad Daniels, has issued its Global CCS Status of CCS 2022 Report ahead of ADIPEC 2022 and COP27.

Hugh Fraser International is pleased to welcome Scottish Development International SDI and a cluster of Scottish company focussing on net zero technologies back to ADIPEC 2022.

will see 7% growth this year and the SWF Public Investment Fund is driving a raft of US$ billion giga-projects in the kingdom. On the energy front, Saudi Aramco will announce another huge profits haul on 1 November, coinciding with ADIPEC2022.

ADIPEC 2022 will be the centre of attention for the energy sector in the Middle East as we head towards 31 October.

Hugh Fraser International wishes our clients and connections every success at this year’s ADIPEC 2022 in Abu Dhabi.

I am pleased to provide our latest update for HFI’s clients and connections, as we head towards ADIPEC 2022 in Abu Dhabi at the end of October.

HFI’s DMCC Corporate & Compliance Solutions service, offering the clear-cut optimum option for early phase business expansion into the Middle East region, goes from strength to strength with a clutch of new client mandates.

HFIs QATVI - Qatar Ventures Initiative is supporting our clients’ ambitions in the massive Qatar US$80 billion projects market tracked in the latest EIC GCC markets update this week. QatarEnergy’s Ammonia-7 project will see the largest blue ammonia global facility with a capacity of 1.

Aramco’s record Q2 profits of US$48bn have exceeded the combined profits of the supermajors ExxonMobil, Chevron, TotalEnergies, Shell and BP. The upstream focus is all now on expanding the maximum sustainable capacity from 12mbpd to 13mbpd by 2027 with the Marjan and Berri projects leading the way.

Saudi Aramco has announced a major blue hydrogen project with the news that 5m to 9m tpa CO2 storage facility at Jubail, the largest of its kind in line with the Kingdom’s National Hydrogen Strategy.

In the latest boost to the UAE’s hydrogen economy, Helios Industry, a TAQA and ADQ (Abu Dhabi Ports) JV is developing the UAE’s first renewable ammonia plant at KIZAD Abu Dhabi using ThyssenKrupp’s electrolysis technology.

QatarEnergy has also updated its sustainability strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions with flagship projects to deploy CCS technology to capture over 11 mtpa by 2035, eliminate routine flaring, limiting methane emissions and developing over 5GW of solar capacity.

ADNOC’s gas masterplan seeks to play a significant role in the UAE’s energy sufficiency and to support international energy security including through the expansion of ADNOC’s liquiefied natural gas (LNG) capacity.

Saudi Aramco’s latest Sustainable Report highlights the huge opportunities for advanced technology and know-how providers within aramco's operations and projects.

July has seen Shell announce that its has joined Qatar Energy’s massive North Field Expansion project alongside Exxon, ConocoPhillips, Total and ENI. The project will see production increase to 126 mtpa, passing the global LNG crown back to Qatar.

Hugh Fraser International has announced a major expansion of its ADVI - Abu Dhabi Ventures Initiative - legal service to support technology and know-how providers to expand in the UAE.

 

Hugh Fraser International teamed up with Calgary-based Rainmaker Global Access to provide a new specialist support service for Canadian companies seeking to benefit from the US$630 billion energy market in the Middle East being tracked by the Energy Industries Council, and in the surrounding regions of India, Caspian/Central Asia, Eastern…

Hugh Fraser International has announced a major expansion of its International Local Partner Solutions (ILPAS) service with the addition of new core team members and an expansion of its international legal alliance network.

Very much enjoyed catching up with Rashid Al Shukeilly of Leaders Oilfield Equipment in Abu Dhabi today to discuss the ADNOC technical challenges and drilling opportunities publications.

May has certainly come in like a lion, and it was great to catch up with USA clients and connections at OTC 2022 in Houston and to contribute to the Energy Transition Zone (ETZ) peer-to-peer Middle East event in Aberdeen.

Hugh Fraser International Net Zero Legal Solutions will support Aurum Exploration Services in their Middle East and Africa business operations.

HFI Petroleum Technology Legal Solutions is delighted to be appointed to support Romar Abrado’s Middle East business expansion. Led by Jason Broussard and Alan Shanks, Romar and Abrado are portfolio companies of EV Private Equity and merged in late 2020.

It is an exciting time for offshore wind with the recent award of option agreements in Scotland for 75GW of new generating capacity, over 50% of which is for floating facilities – the key to rapid internationalisation of this NW Europe dominated industry into deeper water global locations.

Hugh Fraser International is pleased to support the roll-out of Scotland-based ThinJack Ltd internationalisation plans. ThinJack Ltd provides technology-driven products and services including high-pressure component separation of seized wellheads and their valve covers and side outlet valves.

Congratulations to the Scottish companies participating on the SDI hydrogen UAE trade mission last week. Partly hosted at the UK pavilion as part of Expo 2020, the events included a GlobalScot roundtable with Scottish Minister, Ivan McKee MSP, and Murray Bainbridge and James Keating of SDI.

Hugh Fraser International’s focus on net zero opportunities in the Middle East had focussed this week on the Middle East Energy 2022 conference and exhibition in Dubai – key topics being covered are solar technology, green hydrogen, energy storage and energy efficiency.

Hugh Fraser International is following up on the successful EGYPS 2022, IPTC 2022 and Subsea Expo 2022 events with participation at a series of net zero and petroleum technology events during March - a great chance to catch up with clients and connections.

Hugh Fraser International is looking forward to an intensive week coming up with Global Underwater Hub’s Subsea Expo 2022, the International Petroleum Technology Conference 2022 and the SPE’s CCUS 2022 Conference all being hosted.

As EGYPS2022 enter Day 2, accelerating the energy transition will be at the heart of EBRD’s new 5 years programme for Egypt. In 10 years, over US$8 billion has been invested in 145 projects in Egypt, in sustainable infrastructure, renewables capacity and CO2e emissions reduction.

Hugh Fraser International’s Petroleum Legal Solutions focus on the MENA region ramps up this month with two key flagship conferences – EGYPS 2022 is being held in Cairo during 14-16 February and IPTC2022 is hosted in Riyadh during 21-23 February, following on from the pivotal IKTVA 2022 conference held in…

2 February saw the introduction of the UAE’s new Federal Employment Law, replacing legislation from the early 1980s.

The UAE has announced that a 9% corporation tax will be apply to year ends falling from 1 June 2023 onwards. The tax will apply to “onshore” businesses and free zone companies not doing business in the country will remain with zero corporation tax.

As the World Future Energy Summit WFES 2022 enters its final day a new joint report entitled “Renewable Energy Market Analysis: Africa and its Regions” has been published by the International Renewable Agency (IRENA) and African Development Bank (AfDB).

WFES 2022 heads into Day 2 with Egypt’s energy transition progress high on the agenda. 2016 saw a major turnaround in Egypt’s fortunes with a US$5 billion IMF loan stabilising the economy under the Al Sisi government.

QatarEnergy has celebrated the first anniversary of its final investment decision on the US$30 billion North Field Extension programme with the award of major EPCI contract to McDermott International, Ltd.

2022 has started positively in Saudi Arabia with the award of a US$2. 2 billion for the Zulal offshore field to NPCC of the UAE.

Abu Dhabi is pushing forwards with its dual objectives for petroleum and clean energy growth.

The United Arab Emirates has set the scene for 2022 with a massive legislative programme instituting key reforms in areas such as employment law, electronic transactions, data protection regulation and intellectual property law.

HFI has launched its new UAE Employment Law and Practice Guidance 2022.

HFI wishes to congratulate Sparrows Group on the expansion of their UAE business with a new facility and branch registration in Abu Dhabi as well as the extension of its local partner arrangements with Abu Dhabi Oilfield Services (ADOS).

Hugh Fraser International congratulates the management team at Dron & Dickson on the recent successful sale of their UAE business to Proserv Middle East.

I am pleased to provide an update on major client initiatives by Global CCS Institute, Air Drilling Systems (ADS) and MNB Precision in the United Arab Emirates, together with major new HFI initiatives for Saudi Arabia, India and Egypt.

The Global CCS Institute has launched its 2021 annual report, highlighting the criticality of the CCS contribution needed for the climate change challenge. There are now 27 operational facilities with a capacity of 40 million tonnes per annum with 106 new facilities are in the pipeline.

On September 22, 2021, the Government of India (Indian Government) has announced that it has opened for International Competitive Bidding (ICB) 15 Coal Bed Methane (CBM) Blocks (Special CBM Bid Round-2021).

Coventry-based MNB Precision has completed the first phase of its international business expansion strategic plan with the establishment of MNB Precision International at the DMCC free zone in Dubai in the UAE.

On September 22, 2021, the Government of India (Indian Government) has announced that it has opened for International Competitive Bidding (ICB) 15 Coal Bed Methane (CBM) Blocks (Special CBM Bid Round-2021).

US-based, ADS Services, a leading integrator of next-generation drilling and completion technology, is launching ADS International at the DMCC free zone in Dubai as a platform for its Middle East expansion. Based in Midland, Texas, ADS is a leading provider of critical pressure control equipment and services.

Hugh Fraser International (HFI) has upgraded its Saudi Arabia Ventures Initiative (SAVI), following Saudi Aramco’s announcement in August that annual profits had increased by over 300% to U$25. 5 billion.

HFI is pleased to be appointed as legal advisors to Seagull Petroleum & Mining, a new venture launched by Hesham El-Meligy and Brian Smart, targeting gold mining ventures in former Equinor executive El-Heligy’s home country of Egypt.

The IEA India Special Report 2021 reports that: India is the world’s third largest energy consuming country, thanks to rising incomes and improving standards of living. Energy use has doubled up since 2000 with 80% of demand still being met by coal, oil, and solid biomass.

I am delighted to confirm, following the issuing of new licences from Dubai Economic Development Department and the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department, that HFI’s Dubai-based Hugh Fraser International Legal Consultancy practice officially re-opens on 19 September to coincide with Gastech 2021 and SPE ATCE 2021 both being held…

HFI has been delighted to support UK-based MNB Precision’s expansion into the Middle East. The company has now reached agreement on commercial heads of terms for a new joint venture with Sigma Engineering for the United Arab Emirates, marking the company’s first overseas venture.

“India’s future prosperity will hinge on affordable, clean and reliable energy” – How the FDI framework will work in India’s burgeoning energy sector

Hugh Fraser International (HFI) in association with Metwand Chambers Law Office in Mumbai, has released the second article in its “Roadmap to Successful Ventures in India” programme.

I am pleased to announce that HFI has launched our upgraded dual language agency agreement for Middle East ventures. The new document is built on specialist contract automation software and reflects 20 years’ of know-how and experience in formulating, re-booting and terminating local partner agreements in the region.

Hugh Fraser International (HFI), in association with Metwand Chambers Law Office in Mumbai, has launched its “Roadmap to Successful Ventures in India” programme which will feature a series of briefings, guidance memos and webinars on the topic.

HFI has announced a major push to support clients on energy ventures in the burgeoning India market. A new legal network alliance partnership has been announced with Mukund Puranik, ex counsel with Reliance Industries, who is based in Mumbai.

HFI is among 61 businesses featured in the latest edition of the “Survive and Thrive” Report published today by EIC, the fifth in the series.

I am delighted to announce that Linda Al Orm has been appointed as General Manager of HFI Bridgehead Solutions based in Dubai.

I am pleased to announce that the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department has approved the re-launch of Hugh Fraser International Legal Consultancy as an independent specialist law firm in Dubai.

ICPC, led by Canadian oilfield services entrepreneur, Stan LaMascus, General Director, David Barker, and several experienced technical experts, is ramping up for growth in the Middle East and Central Asia.

Key themes from last week’s EIC-led Energy Export Conference included the ongoing roll-out of Aberdeen’s Energy Transition Zone in the North East of Scotland.

HFI Net Zero Legal Solutions (N-ZELS) is welcoming next week’s EIC (Energy Industries Council) led Energy Export Conference. This marks the start of a series of net zero focussed initiatives over the summer culminating at the GASTECH 2021 conference which will now be held in Dubai in September.

IAS International Oil & Gas Consultants DMCC, the talent management, competence and performance Improvement experts, are launching their new IASsure service designed to help SMEs develop a Competence Management System.

Safehouse Habitats Ltd is gearing up for growth in Abu Dhabi with the signing of a new joint venture arrangement with Euro Mechanical Electrical & Contracting Company, focussing on its hot work pressurised welding habitats which provide safe working environments without disrupting production activities.

Praxis Completion Technology will shortly be ready to launch its new Saudi Arabian business venture, focussed on in-country service activities for advanced intervention tools.

Scottish-based Intervention Rentals is ramping up for Middle East growth with the establishment of Intervention Rentals International at the @DMCC Free Zone in Dubai and the appointment of Phil Scott to drive the expansion. The company is a leading supplier of drilling and well service equipment.

The Global CCS Institute has established an office in Abu Dhabi as part of its ongoing support for supporting communities in accelerating CCS deployment.

Net Zero Legal Solutions, the energy transition division of HFI Consulting International has completed the establishment of a foreign branch of the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute in the Masdar City Free Zone (MCFZ) in Abu Dhabi.

HFI Petroleum Technology Legal Solutions is delighted to congratulate Praxis Completion Technology on the establishment of their new Saudi Arabian business, launched in January following Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA) approval and Ministry of Commerce registration.

HFI Consulting International is pleased to announce the roll out of our HFI Petroleum Technology Solutions for Qatar energy business ventures in collaboration with our local partners in Doha.

New Saudi Arabia initiative for World Oil Technology Award winner AccessESP

HFI Petroleum Technology Legal Solutions extend our congratulations to AccessESP on the establishment of their new business in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

HFI Consulting International extends our congratulations to the leadership team at Flowline Specialists Limited on the completion of the sale of the business to Motive Offshore Group Ltd, backed by EV private equity group, on 30 November.

HFI Petroleum Technology Legal Solutions heads out for EIC Connect Saudi Arabia. I am pleased to announce HFI’s return to the EIC (Energy Industries Council) fold after a gap of two years, commencing with our participating at the EIC Connect Saudi Arabia virtual conference next week on 24/25 November.

DMCC leads the way for Middle East petroleum technology options

HFI believes that one of the strongest offerings to emerge over that decade for Middle East business structures has been the DMCC free zone option.

Why DMCC companies can add value to Middle East business ventures

The Middle East region will continue to offer major opportunities to the petroleum sector for the next generation.

HFI Consulting International is pleased to announce the launch of its DMCC Plus+ Corporate & Compliance Solutions service. This will focus on the use of DMCC free zone entities in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates for client Middle East regional and wider international business group structures.

A milestone declaration has been signed by eight Baltic Sea countries - Poland, Germany,

Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia – to accelerate the build out of new offshore wind capacities in the Baltic Sea.

As the use of hydrogen is expected to grow in the global energy system,

this world-first represents a significant opportunity to showcase the potential of hydrocarbons as a reliable and affordable source of low carbon hydrogen and ammonia.

A roadmap for delivering an integrated net zero energy system for the North Sea has been unveiled by the Oil and Gas Technology Centre (OGTC). It’s believed that the opportunities which new technologies will bring will generate more than £2. 5 trillion for the UK economy.

Achieving international climate goals is dependent on dramatically scaling up clean energy technologies and energy innovation will be crucial. The IEA ‘Energy Technology Perspectives’ 2020 report outlines how we need a radical transformation in the way we supply, transform and use energy.

The last two weeks have brought a distinct downturn in confidence as politicians have conceded that COVID-19 is heading for its second wave.

Saudi Arabia’s fiscal balance challenges look set to receive some respite with the Energy Minister Abdulaziz Bin Salman predicting oil demand to return to 97% of pre-pandemic levels by Q4 2020.

The Energy Transition Alliance (ETA), formed by The Oil & Gas Technology Centre (OGTC) and the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult, will collaborate with the energy industry to drive a focused, funded programme to develop advanced technologies, including the next generation of hydrogen production and floating offshore wind.

The current fiscal challenges facing Saudi Arabia have been manifested with the recent sharpening of the taxation tools. A number of key areas will demand closer planning and compliance scrutiny by technology and services providers conducting business in or into the Kingdom.

On behalf of HFI Consulting International can I extend our thoughts and best wishes to Beirut and Lebanon following yesterday’s horrendous explosion at the port of Beirut.

Water Innovation 2050 is an alliance of 19 UK water companies which have developed a draft water innovation strategy for the sector. The strategy looks ahead and provides a roadmap for the UK water sector to collaborate and innovate to meet the challenge of the future.

Early stage businesses who have found difficulty with their routes to investment following the COVID19 pandemic are being offered three forms of support by the Scottish Government.

A hydrogen strategy has been launched by the EU as part of efforts to achieve the European Green Deal and to enable a clean energy transition. Renewable electricity is expected to decarbonise a large share of EU energy consumption by 2050, but not all of it.

New strategies for energy system integration and hydrogen have been announced by the European Commission. Europe’s Green Deal and the EU’s post COVID recovery plans.

The Middle East is providing a major shot in the arm for technology providers with the announcement that Saudi Aramco Energy Ventures has launched a new US$500 million investment fund.

The Scottish Government has launched an export strategy entitled ‘Scotland – A Trading Nation’ which sets out plans for growing Scotland’s exports to add around £3. 5 billion to GDP and create 17,500 more jobs.

I am writing to you in response to your letter of 20 January 2020 when you asked for feedback and recommendations from the GlobalScot Network in relation to your roll out of the “A Trading Nation” strategic initiative.

The former Michelin factory site in Dundee, which is being developed into an innovation park for advanced manufacturing and technology, has signed a memorandum of agreement with the University of Dundee.

Six Danish groups – including Maersk and DFDS, are behind a project which aims to see green hydrogen deliver 250,000 tonnes of fuel each year by 2030. The coalition marks the shipping industry’s direct involvement in the development of zero emission fuels.

A new plan has been launched by the SCDI outlining a ‘green recovery from the COVID 19 pandemic.

Lawyer and Middle East business expert Hugh Fraser has been inducted into a global networking initiative set up to help Scottish firms break international markets.

Garron Point Community Ventures is supporting the Gravitate North East project which aims to make a 45km area of Durris forest in Aberdeenshire into a high quality, high adventure outdoor activity centre. Proposals include mountain bike trails, a chairlift, ziplines and climbing areas.

Crown Estate Scotland which manages Scotland’s seabed has announced the first round of offshore wind leasing in Scottish waters for more than a decade. This will enable innovative offshore renewables to build the next generation of offshore windfarm.

A project to increase the value of adventure tourism in Aberdeen City and Shire over the next decade has been funded by Opportunity North East (ONE), Scottish Enterprise and Aberdeenshire Council. The project will enable the delivery of new land and coastal activities and enhance the local wellbeing economy.

The German government plans a €9billion investment in hydrogen with the country’s National Hydrogen Strategy. At the launch of the strategy document economy minister Peter Altmaier called the strategy a “quantum leap” towards Germany becoming a world leader in hydrogen technologies. Read more here

A multi-million pound fund to support businesses in the oil, gas and energy sectors in the over the next five years has been announced by The Scottish Government (12 June 2020). The investment underpins the ambitions to become a world leader in the transition to net zero.

In response to the ongoing global crisis resulting from COVID-19, we would like to reassure clients of our ability to provide a seamless, uninterrupted continuity of service within the framework of government policy and recommendations.

By Adrian Phillips, subsea expert for Bridgehead Ventures Subsea Middle East

Subsea energy-focused operators seeking to expand should be eyeing Saudi Arabia as the region pushes boundaries to bolster its oil and gas supply ambitions.

A new business model aimed at helping energy-focused firms expand into the Middle East has been launched by HFI Consulting International following an extensive two-year industry consultation.

The start of a new year often signifies a period of new energy: a time when we focus on goals and aspirations for the coming 12 months and map out the journey we need to take in order to reach them.

With over 2,200 exhibiting companies within 23 country pavilions, over 1,000 guest speakers and an audience of more than 145,000 there is no question that the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) is now the world’s largest energy event.

By Graham Berry, specialist business consultant

It’s always an exciting time in Aberdeen when Offshore Europe is in town – and this year was even more so, with it being the first time the event was held at the city’s new exhibition centre, P&J Live.

By Adrian Phillips, chairman Society for Underwater Technology Middle East

Exploration and production budgets in the Middle East have been squeezed in recent years, but new data suggests that energy firms in the region are ready to increase their offshore spending once again.

By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly article outlining HFI’s new approach to helping businesses establish a presence in Abu Dhabi through our innovative Bridgehead Cluster Ventures (BCV).

By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly article outlining HFI’s new approach to helping businesses establish a presence in Abu Dhabi through our innovative Bridgehead Cluster Ventures (BCV). This week I am discussing participating companies, and the roles of local partners, general managers and HFI.

By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly article outlining HFI’s new approach to helping businesses establish a presence in Abu Dhabi through our innovative Bridgehead Cluster Ventures (BCV). This week, I am discussing how BCVs will operate in practice.

By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to the first in my new weekly series examining a new and innovative project being pioneered by HFI – the bridgehead cluster venture (BCV). Just as the name suggests, BCV is about bringing business together and collectively working towards success.

By Graham Berry, specialist business consultant

Permanent well abandonment consists of cutting the production string around 10 to 15 feet below the seabed.

Rolling Out Innovative Business Structures to Succeed

By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly note with some personal views on what does/does not work when structuring business ventures in the Middle East region.  

My tenth and final theme is “Rolling Out Innovative Business Structures to Succeed.

A consultation has been launched on innovative proposals to create a collaboration venture aimed at boosting Scotland’s export performance and helping SME oil and gas service companies expand in the challenging Middle East market.

Isolating the Reasons for Failed Ventures
By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly note with some personal views on what does/does not work when structuring business ventures in the Middle East region.  

My ninth and penultimate theme is “Isolating the Reasons for Why Ventures Fail”.

By Graham Berry, specialist business consultant

The first wells were drilled in the North Sea in the 1960s and 1970s, transforming it into one of the world’s leading oil-producing regions. But now, half a century later, many of those initial wells are coming to the end of their lifespan.

Choosing Acquisitions to Fast(er) Track
By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly note with some personal views on what does/does not work when structuring business ventures in the Middle East region.  My eighth theme is “Choosing Acquisitions to Fast(er) Track”.

Laying the Foundation Stones for Equity Joint Ventures
By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly note with some personal views on what does/does not work when structuring business ventures in the Middle East region.  My seventh theme is “Laying the Foundation Stones for Equity Joint Ventures”.

Tackling Localisation and In-Country Value
By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly note with some personal views on what does/does not work when structuring business ventures in the Middle East region.  My sixth theme is “Localisation and In-Country Value (ICV)”.

Managing Credit and Payment Risks
By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly note with some personal views on what does/does not work when structuring business ventures in the Middle East region.  My fifth theme is “Managing Credit and Payment Risks”.

Avoiding the Taxation Traps
By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly note with some personal views on what does/does not work when structuring business ventures in the Middle East region.  

My fourth theme is “Taxation”.

Personnel Contracts
By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly note with some personal views on what does/does not work when structuring business ventures in the Middle East region.  

My third theme is senior “Personnel Contracts”.

Free Zones
By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to my weekly note with some personal views on what does/does not work when structuring business ventures in the Middle East region.  

My second theme is “Free Zones”.

Commercial disputes: time consuming, costly and a drain on energy that no one wants to have to deal with. But clashes over contracts – or rather failure to abide by their terms – is a daily reality for businesses of all shapes and sizes.

Working with Local Partners
By Hugh Fraser, managing partner

Welcome to the first in my new Roadmap Series, with some personal views on what does and does not work when structuring business ventures in the Middle East region.  

My first theme is local partners.

The offshore wind revolution in the UK rolls ahead with the last month’s announcement of a £250 million sector deal to drive capacity to 30 GW by 2030 and a third of UK electricity to be sourced from this capacity.

HFI Consulting International has supported oil and gas supply chain firm Flowline Specialists in the successful relocation to a new base in the Middle East.

The Lebanon International Oil & Gas Summit being held in Beirut on 2-4 April will serve as a range finder on the progress being made with the country’s current Second Licensing Round.

HFI Consulting International is pleased to have acted for consultancy firm Integrated Advisory Service (IAS) on a management buy-out from its owners Drilling Systems.

South Africa’s offshore oil and gas prospects were given a major shot in the arm last month by the major Total gas and condensate discovery in the Outeniqua Basin.

The prospect of further subsea opportunities in the Middle East was re-stirred last week with the announcement that Aramco has discovered large quantities of gas in the Red Sea.

The Middle East Oil Show (MEOS) returns to Bahrain during 18-21 March. As an SPE event in that location, MEOS has long been recognised as a dual opportunity to update on developments in the Saudi oil and gas market and the latest news on advanced oil and gas technology.

A major expansion into the Middle East for remote operated vehicle (ROV) specialist ROVOP has been facilitated by HFI Consulting International. HFI provided a full package of legal and consultancy services to ROVOP, which has now become the largest independent operator of its type in the region.

Ambitious targets have been set for the UK’s oil and gas supply chain to double the value of its £11bn export market in the next two decades.

The CEO of the Global CCS Institute, Brad Page, writing in the Institute’s The Global Status of CCS Report 2018 asserted that “2018 may well be the year that the stars started again align for CCS…for the first time in quite a long time, we have seen decisive action from a…

HFI is pleased to announce that Brandon Malone has joined the HFI team with effect from 1 January 2019 as a senior legal advisor. Brandon is the founder of niche dispute resolution legal practice Brandon Malone & Company.

The World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2018 published by Mycle Schneider in September presents a hard-hitting critique of the status of and prospects for nuclear power.

Norway’s strategic approach to its petroleum sector continues with the recent announcement that Equinor is to drill 3,000 wells during the next two decades.  

Norway’s continued investment in exploration and development will see production rise back over 4 million barrels per day oil equivalent by 2020.

The UK’s OGA has recently launched the UK’s 31st licensing round. But the relative ongoing performance of the Norwegian and UK oil and gas sectors’ contribution to their respective government’s finances still raises serious cause for concern. The UK Office for Budget Responsibility is projecting tax receipts of £0.

This week’s Singapore International Water Week has a strong focus on renewable energy desalination (REDSAL) as the world’s water experts meet and debate in the city state. According to the International Desalination Association, global desalination capacity now at over 100 million cubic metres per day.

North Sea-based subsea companies will discover how to unlock a growing number of opportunities in the offshore Arabian Gulf at a key presentation being staged by HFI Consulting International.

The MENA region never ceases to push out major news which impacts on the international energy matrix and recent weeks have been no exception.

The scale of opportunities for the subsea sector in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region will come under the microscope at an event being hosted by Subsea UK and HFI Consulting International next month.

By Hugh Fraser

The HFI Consulting International story comes full circle this month as the team returns to OTC Houston. But while this preeminent industry event celebrates 50 years of bringing innovation to the energy sector, HFI will be marking the first anniversary of the announcement of our return.

You have the product, you’ve tested the market.  The time is right to take your business to the next level. And when you want to explore the options for expanding internationally, it’s important to consider all feasible sources of funding and support.

As far as launchpads for global wind initiatives go, this coming week’s Subsea Expo may not appear an obvious choice. But the help, knowledge and support offered by HFI Consulting International and its new offshore wind service could be just what many delegates are looking for.

An innovative and pioneering collaboration venture that will help Scottish firms gain a foothold in the fast-growing Saudi Arabian oil and gas market has been launched by HFI Consulting International.

HFI Consulting International is pleased to announce that Singapore-based Andy Ang has joined HFI’s Bridgehead Energy Consultants and will be working in tandem with HFI Legal Consultancy’s alliance partners for ASEAN, Peter Dorasaimy Law Firm.

HFI Consulting International is extending its Saudi Arabian Ventures Initiative (SAVI) to cover opportunities arising in the Red Sea and Western Saudi Arabia. This is in addition to its existing focus on oil and gas opportunities in the Eastern Province, where Saudi Aramco is based.

HFI Consulting International has launched a new collaboration with Energy Business Catalyst (EBC) – a consultancy with deep-seated knowledge of both subsea oil and gas and offshore wind projects.

HFI Consulting International has further expanded its worldwide team of experts, with two leading figures from the energy industry in Scotland and the Middle East joining its global network.

Aberdeen-based Helideck Certification Agency – a firm which has been with us since the first incarnation of HFI – has signed contracts to establish a new venture in the United Arab Emirates.

It was clear during last week’s SPE Annual Technology and Conference and Exhibition that the oil industry’s innovators have not been resting on their laurels during the downturn and have maintained a focus on R&D.

Where energy is opportunity: the strapline of Saudia Arabia’s national oil company Saudi Aramco could not be more fitting than at the present time. The Kingdom continues to make hefty strides towards economic reform, reducing its resilience on oil exports and tapping into alternative energy sources.

HFI Consulting International has gone on record many times about the importance it places on making connections and building relationships.  We are committed members of the EIC and we are proud to announce that we have also now joined Subsea UK.

HFI has now started to focus on opportunities arising for its clients in the ASEAN region (Association of South East Asian Nations) which draws together 10 developing economies in the region – Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Brunei, Philippines, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.

In 2003, Graham Berry became one of the first clients of what was then a new and embryonic venture in the Middle East – the original HFI Consulting.

Middle East business expansion specialist HFI Consulting International has launched a new service to help energy and water firms develop joint ventures in the wake of major plans to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy.

Middle East business expansion experts HFI Consulting International has made a key appointment to its legal management team as it prepares for its formal relaunch. Malcolm Kelly, who amassed over 20 years of experience with global engineers Weir Group, has joined the team as a senior legal consultant.

Lawyer and Middle East business expert Hugh Fraser has been inducted into a global networking initiative set up to help Scottish firms break international markets.

A Scots lawyer whose expertise in international law and business has helped ambitious energy-focused firms break into new markets in the Middle East is relaunching the consultancy that made his name.