During the recent Global AI Summit (GAIN) held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh, Aramco unveiled a series of ambitious initiatives aimed at integrating advanced digital solutions across its operations. These initiatives mark a significant step in Aramco’s strategy to utilize cutting-edge technologies such as Generative AI and the Industrial Internet of Things (IoT), driving substantial enhancements in its industrial processes and commercial practices.
Ahmad Al-Khowaiter, Aramco’s EVP of Technology & Innovation, emphasized the transformative impact of these technologies: “Aramco is at the forefront of deploying these technologies on an industrial scale, significantly enhancing our operational efficiency and reinforcing our commitment to innovation and the Kingdom’s vision of becoming a global leader in AI.”
Strategic Collaborations to Boost AI and Supercomputing
The summit was also a platform for Aramco to establish key partnerships, evidenced by Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) signed with several leading tech companies. Collaborations with Cerebras Systems and FuriosaAI aim to explore advancements in supercomputing and AI technologies. An MoU with Rebellions will potentially integrate their Neural Processing Unit chips into Aramco’s data centers to boost digital infrastructure and AI-driven innovations.
Furthering its commitment to enhancing AI capabilities, Aramco signed another MoU with SambaNova Systems to accelerate AI innovation and adoption across the Kingdom.
Pioneering AI Applications and Infrastructure
A highlight of the summit was Aramco’s announcement of deploying one of the region’s first AI supercomputers, equipped with high-performance NVIDIA GPUs. This supercomputer is set to revolutionize tasks such as drilling plan analysis and geological assessments, with a focus on recommending strategies to minimize carbon intensity in well placements.
Edge AI and Digital Innovations
In collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, Aramco is pioneering the deployment of industrial generative AI solutions ‘on the edge’, enhancing facility monitoring, predictive maintenance, and the utilization of autonomous drones.
These initiatives are part of a broader strategy that includes the launch of the Saudi Accelerated Innovation Lab (SAIL) and the Global AI Corridor, aiming to convert innovative ideas into functional products and establish a robust ecosystem for AI development.
Moreover, the Eye on AI Program was introduced to foster strong AI cybersecurity governance and equip users with essential cybersecurity skills, addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
