Saipem sells its shallow-water offshore drilling business in Saudi Arabia to ADES for $285 million
Type: Sale · Technology: Oil Gas · Country: Saudi Arabia · Value: $285M · Announced: 2026-06-24
Saipem has signed a binding sale and purchase agreement with ADES Saudi Limited Company to transfer its shallow-water offshore drilling business in Saudi Arabia for $285 million. The assets includes Saudi Arabian Saipem Limited (SAS), which operates three owned jack-up rigs (Perro Negro 7, 8, 10) and two leased rigs (Perro Negro 11, 13) serving shallow-water fields. The transaction is slated to close in the third quarter of 2026, subject to customary conditions precedent and regulatory approvals. By divesting the shallow-water portfolio, Saipem will sharpen its focus on deep-water and harsh-environment offshore drilling, aligning with its industrial plan. ADES, an international drilling operator, will expand its presence in the Saudi market, adding the jack-up fleet to its existing capabilities. Moelis & Company UK LLP acted as financial advisor to Saipem, while Clifford Chance and AS&H Clifford Chance provided legal counsel on the sale.
Counterparties
- Saipem (Seller)
- Moelis & Company UK LLP (Legal Buy)
- ADES Holding (Parent Company)
- Clifford Chance (Legal Sell)
- Saipem International B.V (Seller)
- AS&H Clifford Chance (Legal Sell)
- ADES Saudi Limited Company (Buyer)