Borouge and Yokogawa trial AI-powered control room in Ruwais facility
Borouge announced a collaboration with Yokogawa UAE Industry to conduct a proof-of-concept for AI-powered autonomous control room operations at its world-class Ruwais facility in Abu Dhabi.
The initiative will see Yokogawa, a leading provider of advanced automation technologies and solutions across the Emirates, deploy AI-based systems capable of analysing vast streams of operational data, identifying patterns, and predicting anomalies. This capability is expected to enable faster corrective actions, significantly reducing the risk of unplanned shutdowns while optimising efficiency and plant performance.
Hazeem Sultan Al Suwaidi, Chief Executive Officer of Borouge, said: "As we progress our AI, Digitalisation and Technology (AIDT) transformation programme, our goal is to deliver an AI-powered autonomous control room at what will be the single largest petrochemical site in the world, enabling Borouge to accelerate growth and create lasting value for shareholders.”
The proof-of-concept will explore the potential of autonomous control rooms to transform industrial operations. Unlike conventional control rooms, which primarily monitor systems and react to incidents, autonomous control rooms harness artificial intelligence and automation to anticipate issues and implement corrective measures proactively.
Norinao Sato, President and CEO of Yokogawa Middle East & Africa, commented: "An AI-powered control room is a next generation operational hub that leverages artificial intelligence, machine learning and automation to optimise decision-making, automate processes, enhance safety and boost efficiency sustainably, transforming the control room from a reactive monitoring station to a proactive, intelligent command centre.”
The collaboration is part of Borouge’s wider strategy to integrate artificial intelligence and advanced technologies across its operations. The company is targeting $575 million in value generation by 2025 through its digital transformation and technology partnerships. By the end of the second quarter, Borouge had already delivered $307 million in value against this target.
This move underscores Borouge’s commitment to strengthening operational resilience, maximising efficiency, and positioning itself as a global leader in petrochemical innovation, while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a hub for advanced industrial technologies.
