AI-Driven Autonomous Control Rooms Set New Standards for UAE Petrochemical Operations

Powering AI Operations in the UAE

Abu Dhabi-based petrochemical company Borouge is teaming up with Honeywell to pilot AI-powered autonomous operations. This collaboration aims to create the petrochemical industry’s first AI-driven control room capable of full-scale, real-time operation. The proof-of-concept will be rolled out across Borouge’s Ruwais facilities in the UAE, set to become the world’s largest petrochemical site.

Autonomous operations will help Borouge optimise production, cut energy consumption, improve safety, and reduce costs. Both companies will combine their expertise in process technology and autonomous control to deploy advanced machine learning algorithms and Agentic AI solutions.

Driving Efficiency Through AI

This project is part of Borouge's companywide AI, Digitalisation, and Technology (AIDT) programme, which is expected to generate $575 million in value this year. In 2024, Borouge’s portfolio of over 200 AIDT initiatives—including operations, health and safety, sales, sustainability, and product innovation—delivered $573 million in value.

Advanced Systems in Action

Borouge has already implemented the world’s largest Real-Time Optimisation (RTO) system. This system covers three ethane crackers and 20 furnaces, analyzing over 2,500 parameters per minute. The result is instant data-driven decision-making that boosts productivity, optimises energy use, and lowers emissions. It also reduces ethane dumping and maximises resource efficiency, supporting Borouge’s sustainable growth goals.

Additionally, Borouge has invested heavily in its Innovation Centre in Abu Dhabi. Using advanced AI tools, the company accelerates the development of new polymer grades. In partnership with ADNOC AI Lab, Borouge completed its first “Polymer Optimisation” programme, achieving 97% accuracy. This success cut the development timeline from months to weeks.

Leadership Perspectives

Hazeem Sultan Al Suwaidi, CEO of Borouge, said, “Borouge's AIDT transformation programme is setting new standards in operations, innovation, and business performance. Collaborating with global AI leaders like Honeywell accelerates growth, drives efficiency, and enhances shareholder value. This project strengthens Borouge’s competitive edge as we advance our ambitious AIDT roadmap.”

George Bou Mitri, President of Honeywell Industrial Automation for the Middle East, Turkey, Africa, and Central Asia, added, “Integrating AI and automation into core operations unlocks new levels of efficiency, safety, and performance. This agreement demonstrates how applied technology can reshape industrial operations at scale.”

What This Means for Operations Professionals

• Real-time AI-driven control rooms can transform how operations teams monitor and manage complex processes.
• Advanced optimisation systems reduce waste and energy use, directly impacting operational costs and sustainability targets.
• Accelerated product development through AI tools shortens time to market, providing a competitive advantage.
• Collaboration between industry leaders and technology experts is key to delivering scalable AI solutions.

Operations professionals interested in building skills around AI and automation can explore relevant training programs to stay ahead. Courses covering AI implementation and autonomous systems can provide practical knowledge to support initiatives like those at Borouge. For more information on AI courses tailored for operational roles, visit Complete AI Training.