The oil and gas sector in the UAE is a powerhouse, fueling both the nation’s economy and the global energy market. The top 10 oil and gas companies in UAE command a covering 85% of the country’s fossil fuel exploration, extraction, and exportation.
As a key member of OPEC (Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries), the UAE’s economy has long been anchored in oil and gas, much like other members of this influential group.
Despite recent efforts to diversify its economy through sectors like tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and trade, the UAE still relies heavily on the reinvestment of funds generated from oil and gas projects.
This sector remains the economic backbone of the country, creating thousands of job opportunities for both locals and expatriates.
In this post, we’ll dive into the top oil and gas companies in the UAE, highlighting their size, influence, and the employment benefits they offer.
Many multinational firms, especially from the United States and Europe, have established joint ventures with local oil and gas companies in the UAE. However, our focus here is on the local giants, leaving out the foreign firms partnered with UAE-based companies.
top 10 oil and gas companies in UAE
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ABU DHABI NATIONAL OIL COMPANY (ADNOC);
ADNOC is not just the largest oil corporation in the UAE; it’s a global giant in the petroleum industry.
Since its establishment in 1971, ADNOC has grown to become a dominant force in the Gulf region, with operations extending across Asia, North America, and Europe. The company offers a wide range of upstream and downstream services, from oil field exploration and refinery processes to storage and supply solutions.
ADNOC’s production capacity is staggering, averaging over 3.5 million barrels of oil and 10.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day.
With a diverse workforce representing more than 100 nationalities, ADNOC employs over 50,000 people worldwide.
The company is known for adhering to local labor laws and providing exceptional employment opportunities, making it a top choice for anyone looking to work in the oil and gas industry.
2. EMIRATES NATIONAL OIL COMPANY (ENOC);
Established by the Dubai government in 1993, Emirates National Oil Company LLC (ENOC) has been a key player in the exploration, production, supply, refining, trade, marketing, and retail of oil and gas.
ENOC employs around 9,000 people and serves customers in more than 60 countries. With over 30 companies under its umbrella, ENOC specializes in sectors such as storage, processing, aviation, and sales.
3. ABU DHABI NATIONAL ENERGY COMPANY (TAQA);
TAQA, another Abu Dhabi-based oil and gas giant, is publicly listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX).
The company is a top utility provider in the MENA region and offers services in 11 countries. These services range from power generation and oil and gas exploration to water desalination, pipeline construction, and underground storage.
TAQA’s workforce consists of over 2,000 employees from 30 different nationalities, reflecting its commitment to diversity and excellence. The company is a strong contender for anyone seeking a career in the oil and gas industry.
4. EMDAD SERVICES LLC
Founded in 1979, Emdad Services LLC is a leading provider of upstream and downstream hydrocarbon integration services.
The company also specializes in geological data management. Emdad’s ISO 19001 certification, obtained in 2001, underscores its commitment to quality and excellence in the oil and gas sector
5. EMARAT;
Established in 1981, Emirates General Petroleum Corporation, commonly known as EMARAT, is a market leader in the distribution of petroleum products and commercial fuel.
EMARAT supplies high-quality petroproducts to public, private, and corporate clients across the UAE. The company operates modern service stations and manages large storage facilities in Jebel Ali, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and other emirates.
6. DUBAI PETROLEUM ESTABLISHMENT
Dubai Petroleum Establishment (DPE) has been a cornerstone of the UAE’s oil and gas industry since 1969, the year of the first commercial oil export from the offshore Fateh field in Dubai.
As one of the oldest companies in the sector, DPE operates several oil and gas fields across the country.
DPE is known for its employee-centric approach, encouraging continuous learning and career development. Many professionals consider DPE a desirable place to work, thanks to its strong emphasis on personal and professional growth.
7. AL MASAOOD OIL & GAS;
Al Masaood Oil & Gas has been a prominent player in the UAE’s oil and gas sector since its founding in Abu Dhabi 50 years ago.
The company has expanded its operations beyond the UAE to the Middle East, North Africa, the Eastern Mediterranean, and South Asia.
Al Masaood offers equitable work opportunities for both experienced professionals and young talents, making it a top choice for those seeking a career in the oil and gas industry.
8. SHARJAH NATIONAL OIL CORPORATION
Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC) is one of the most reliable energy suppliers in Sharjah and operates throughout the UAE.
While the Sharjah government holds the majority of SNOC’s shares, the company is involved in a wide range of activities, including oil and gas exploration, production, processing, exportation, and LPG gas storage.
9. Dana Gas
Dana Gas, established in 2005, is one of the newer players in the UAE’s oil and gas industry.
Despite its relatively recent entry into the market, Dana Gas has made significant strides, employing over 1,100 people from 17 different nationalities across the MENA region. The company’s diverse workforce and innovative approach have been key to its success.
10. Crescent Petroleum Company
Crescent Petroleum Company, founded in 1971 in Sharjah, is a subsidiary of the Crescent Group. The company operates both upstream and downstream in the UAE and on four other continents.
Crescent Petroleum oversees various aspects of the oil and gas business, including statistics, financial and operational risk management, and staff supervision.
Conclusion
The UAE is home to hundreds of national and international oil and gas companies. While many foreign firms operate in the country through partnerships with local companies, the top 10 listed here are the UAE-based giants that dominate the sector.
If you’re considering a career in oil and gas, these companies offer some of the best opportunities in the region, with competitive salaries, robust employment benefits, and a commitment to employee development.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, these companies provide a solid foundation for growth and success in the ever-evolving oil and gas industry