Wear a Face Mask

October 28, 2020 Vol. LXXV, No. 42 a weekly Saudi Aramco publication for employees

CTO leads practical low Historic Saudi W Summit Keep COVID- numbers Aramco wins first place for in this carbon energy thinking down KAPSARC issue Ahmad O. Al Khowaiter joined The Women 20 (W20) Summit, As numbers rise in certain Aramco was the first place winner international experts at last week’s hosted for the first time in Saudi countries, we must take heed and of the Decorative Concrete category “Middle East and Africa Energy Arabia and sponsored by Aramco, continue taking precautions to awarded by the American Concrete Week” conference to drive for- brought women’s empowerment keep Covid-19 numbers down. Institute for excellence in the con- ward the energy industry’s low and diversity and inclusion to struction of the King Abdullah Petro- carbon agenda. center stage. leum Studies and Research Center. see pages 6 and 7 see page 2 see page 8 see page 9

Climate change and the rising demand for clean energy were lead topics discussed by president and CEO Amin Nasser at this week’s B Summit, hosted by Saudi Arabia.

see page 3 AI: The new normal Company at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence

revolution see page 5

By wearing a face mask in 2020 we hope to make 2021 face mask free. wear a face mask October 28, 2020 the arabian sun 2 company news Historic Saudi W Summit seeks to inspire, empower women The Women 20 (W20) meeting was hosted virtually in Riyadh as an integral part of the Kingdom’s Group of 20 (G20) presidency by Eamonn Houston Described as an “engagement group,” the W20 was set up in 2015 and functions Participants at the W20 Riyadh — The Women 20 (W20) Summit, independently. Attendees represented G20 meeting spoke hosted for the first time in Saudi Arabia and member countries, including Argentina, on a number sponsored by Aramco, brought women’s Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, of issues, empowerment and diversity and inclusion Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Re- including to center stage. The summit, held virtually public of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Ara- gender equality. on Oct. 21-22, drew influential women and bia, Turkey, the U.K., the U.S., and the Eu- Aramco played men from around the world to speak and ropean Union. a major role in advocate for gender equality. Aramco’s Di- its success. versity & Inclusion (D&I) Division was privi- During Saudi Arabia’s presidency, the W20 leged to play a pivotal role in its success, sought to ensure that gender issues were hosting the highest attended parallel session brought to the center of G20 discussions. and supporting the event on multiple levels. Topics covered at the W20 summit included the policy changes needed to promote the empowerment of women globally in the empowerment key areas of financial, digital, labor, decision had the highest attendance of any session wide range of issues to support women in The G20 is a forum for international eco- making, and entrepreneurial inclusion. at the W20. the workplace and to raise awareness with- nomic cooperation and brings together in the company on the value of achieving the leaders of both developed and devel- gender parity. oping countries from every continent. Its commitment role model members account for around 80% of the Saudi Aramco’s prominent participation Speaking afterwards, Siyam said, “Our Three important takeaways: world’s economic output and three-quar- in the W20 reflects the company’s ongoing goal at Saudi Aramco is to become a glob- ters of international trade. Throughout the commitment to diversity, empowerment, al role model for diversity and inclusion. We • “Empathy is Empowerment”: The year, representatives from G20 countries and inclusion. can achieve this by fostering inclusive envi- COVID-19 pandemic has altered the global gather to discuss pressing financial and so- ronments and deploying initiatives that em- landscape and leadership has changed as re- cioeconomic issues. During the summit, Saudi Aramco host- power women, such as the Leading Nation- sult. Organizations that emphasized empa- ed a panel session under the banner “Em- al Academy, and encouraging educational thy with their employees have yielded posi- powering Women: A Practical Approach,” opportunities for women in Science, Tech- tive results in productivity and engagement. moderated by Reema H. Siyam, Aramco’s nology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics head of D&I. Expert panelists included Ju- (STEAM).” • Involve women in decision making: dith Michelle Williams, SVP, People Sustain- The economic and global health crisis has ability and chief D&I Office at SAP; Dr. Mary impacted women disproportionately, and Meaney, senior partner and leader of Global high-level Aramco engagements greater female representation in decision Organization Practice at McKinsey and Com- Saudi Aramco was a key player in the making will speed recovery from the pan- pany; and Dr. Maria Angelica Pérez, global W20 over the entire year, not just the sum- demic-induced economic downturn. head of D&I at Standard Chartered Bank. mit, with consistent involvement in events such the W20 “Virtual Majlis” hosted by • Promote female role models: Pro- The panelists explored practical ways to Al Nahda Society, Aramco’s W20 Internal moting and highlighting female role models empower women and men through tested Launch Webinar, and the National Dialogue are key to advancing women and empow- methodologies and covered a wide range series. ering them in the Kingdom’s economy. All Dr. Thoraya Obaid chairs the W20, which was of issues from the current COVID-19 pan- sectors have a responsibility to ensure that set up in 2015 with representatives from G20 demic to digital inclusion and “leading These events allowed Aramco the op- their role models are as diverse as the work- countries. with empathy.” The Saudi Aramco session portunity to advise on and contribute to a force itself is. Law Organization named IFLR’s Middle East Corporate In-House Team of the Year On Oct. 14, the International Financial “I am very proud of my team, and of ly so — in my opinion — as an exemplary the transaction, Aramco and the Public In- Law Review (IFLR) publication granted course, what the company was able to transaction in the region and in the world, vestment Fund (PIF) filed for and obtained the company’s Law Organization the Cor- achieve last year. The Law organization is given its massive scale and the innovative antitrust pre-notification clearances in 21 porate In-House Team of the Year in the unique in the region in terms of the depth groundwork that it took to pull it off. The international jurisdictions prior to Aramco Middle East Award. In addition to winning of talent and expertise and this award is acquisition of a majority stake in SABIC acquiring PIF’s 70% interest in SABIC on the Corporate In-House Team of the Year a testament to the company’s great mile- is a huge one as well, requiring extensive June 16, 2020. award, both the initial public offering (IPO) stones and achievements this past year, regulatory clearance and due diligence in and the SABIC acquisition transactions and to Law’s efforts in supporting those numerous jurisdictions in a remarkable The legal team’s tireless work ethic and were recognized as Deals of the Year for achievements, including the IPO. The short period of time.” ingenuity in preparing for and conduct- their respective categories. team was able to support the company in ing the record-setting IPO and the SAB- achieving all these major milestones con- The Saudi Aramco IPO was the largest IC acquisition have been appreciated by IFLR is a leading financial law publication currently, and sometimes, at compressed initial public offering in history. The IPO company stakeholders as well as external in Europe, the U.S. and Asia, providing the timeframes,” said senior vice president involved several innovations — never be- parties. IFLR’s announcement stated that global financial community with legal mar- and general counsel, Nabeel A. Al Man- fore seen in the region — implemented there is “little doubt that Saudi Aramco ket intelligence, as well as highly reputa- sour. over the course of nearly 4 years of exten- had a transformational year,” and that the ble and closely monitored rankings of law sive legal work leading up to the listing. company’s legal team “implemented inno- firms and lawyers. IFLR’s awards recognize He also described what the award While the SABIC acquisition is expected to vations that defined legal developments legal innovations in cross-border transac- means to the company and what it took enhance Aramco’s presence in the glob- relating to regulations for hydrocarbons, tions, and are presented following months to win it. “The award is the ‘cherry on top’ al petrochemicals industry, the sector is capital markets, shareholders, compa- of research and careful deliberation by the for a year full of triumphs and milestones. expected to record the fastest growth in ny and corporate law, public concession publication’s editors and journalists. The IPO has been widely hailed, and right- oil demand in the years ahead. As part of agreements, and tax rules.” the arabian sun October 28, 2020 company news 3 Aramco deepens focus on climate actions, CEO tells B summit • Decarbonization is at core of climate strategy • Produce more energy with less carbon by Scott Baldauf

Through a year of challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and an economic slowdown, Aramco has remained commit- ted to producing more energy with less carbon emissions. This was the message from Aramco president and CEO Amin Nasser at the B20 Summit, hosted by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh on Oct. 26-27.

In a panel discussion on the topic of “Reinvigorating the Battle to Save the Planet,” Nasser said that Aramco is working across its value chain to help the energy industry reduce carbon emissions, build up a climate friendly circular economy in the Kingdom, and to provide sustainable energy supplies that will improve economic opportunities and the quality of life for generations to come. saving the planet “COVID-19 is the biggest global shock to the global economy since World War II,” Nasser said. “The economic impact has been very tough on young people, women, and people in developing countries. President and CEO Amin Nasser was joined by a distinguished panel in a discussion on the topic of “Reinvigorating the Battle to Save the Planet” at the B20 Summit. “The response by many governments around the world has been equally quick, with economic stimulus and financial sup- “In the energy sector, the investments emissions from over 2,000 sources across port,” Nasser added. “This support also should be broad-based and balanced. our operating facilities. involves actions or investments to build a More attention is focused on new ener- • Using unmanned aerial vehicles cleaner and more sustainable future.” gy, climate-related projects, and the circu- equipped with advanced optical gas imag- lar economy, but existing energy sources ing cameras to further minimize emission To reduce emissions at The goal of producing energy to meet should also be included because they will leakages. global demands does not have to work be part of the global energy mix for de- • Developing a homegrown algorithm to a faster pace, the focus against the shared responsibility of reduc- cades. That is how you grow real green predict and minimize the need for gas flar- shouldn’t only be on ing carbon emissions, which are a con- resilience, sustainable communities, and ing, which is a source of emissions. Through tributing factor in climate change, Nasser jobs,” the CEO added. it and other flare minimization initiatives, new energy sources and said. we have managed to reduce flared gas, which was already small, by around 60%. technologies. That is of “To reduce emissions at a faster pace, technology as a driving force course desirable, but the focus shouldn’t only be on new energy Technology and digitalization are key “Looking more broadly outside Aramco, sources and technologies. That is of course tools in helping the company not only to similar technologies could help in making let’s also focus on desirable, but let’s also focus on lowering remain a competitive source of energy to a real difference to reduce or eliminate the carbon footprint of existing energy the world, but also to reach its goal of cre- emissions,” he said. lowering the carbon sources because they are a significant part ating a more climate friendly world, Nasser footprint of existing of the global energy system, and will be added. for decades,” Nasser said. B voice of business energy sources because “Even before COVID-19, digitalization Other members of the panel included Aramco is focusing on several areas to and new technologies were becoming Adam Sieminski, president of the King they are a significant create a sustainable energy future: common practice in the workplace,” Nass- Abdullah Petroleum Studies Advanced Re- part of the global energy • Making oil cleaner, starting with one er noted. “COVID-19 has only accelerated search Center in Riyadh; Patrick Pouyanné, of the lowest carbon intensities in the the transformation.” CEO of Total; and Emma Marcegaglia, for- system, and will be for world, and then working on advanced mer CEO of ENI and Designated Chair of engine fuel systems of the future that will “Through big data, analytics, and arti- B20 Italy. The moderator for the panel dis- decades. emit a lot less carbon for every mile driven ficial intelligence (AI), we are improving cussion was Manar Al Moneef, president • Promoting the “noncombustible” uses seismic processing, oil recovery, well pro- and CEO of Onshore Wind Business, GE — Amin Nasser of oil, such as turning it into chemicals ductivity, and lowering costs,” Nasser said. Renewable Energy, UAE. and materials, which emit a lot less carbon “Our investment in smart technologies than oil’s used as fuels has made it possible for our upstream oil The B20 is the voice of business to the • In addition to cleaner “refinery-based carbon intensity to be among the lowest G20, also known as the Group of 20, materials,” we are working on “chemi- in the world. Our goal is to become the an international forum for the govern- cal-type” fuels from oil, such as hydrogen world’s most digital energy company. And ments and central bank governors from and ammonia continued investments are critical to get- 19 countries and the European Union. At • Increasing our gas supplies and partic- ting us there and our strategic goal is to G20 conferences, global leaders gather to ipation in renewable projects in the King- produce more energy with less carbon.” address common challenges and to build dom. consensus and commitment for solving The CEO shared a few examples of how those challenges. In addition to the B20, Doing our part in all parts of our opera- Aramco is applying digitalization and oth- Aramco organizations participated in the tions is not only good for our bottom line er technologies like AI, including: Women 20 (W20) Summit, which works to and for our customers, it also is good for • Developing a greenhouse gas emis- foster gender equality and women’s eco- the planet, Nasser said. sions analytical solution that monitors nomic empowerment. October 28, 2020 the arabian sun 4 company news Ithra launches Alsharqiya Gets Creative campaign

Dhahran — The King Abdulaziz Additionally, the campaign seeks to ty into educational curricula. Students will Center for World Culture (Ithra) is build bridges with innovators, creatives, then present either tangible products or launching the Alsharqiya Gets and talents to inspire the Eastern Province working ideas such as hackathons, proj- Creative campaign, which will toward unleashing its creative potential. ects, forums, or panel discussions, all of take place from Oct. 25-31. Participation among individuals and busi- which will be shared on social media using This initiative is a communi- ness owners will be encouraged so they #Alsharqiya_Gets_Creative. ty-based cultural and cre- may formulate unique ideas, depending ative campaign that will on the nature of their work. University and college students will ex- coincide with the third year perience and implement various forms ,of Ithra’s Tanween creativity By launching campaigns related to the of creativity, regardless of specialization #اﻟﺸﺮﻗﻴﺔ season, the largest creative creative economy, Ithra seeks to instill cre- by proposing a creative project of their #Alsharqiya_ event in the Kingdom, un- ativity as a catalyst for the creation of job choice. The small projects category can in- Gets_ der the slogan “The New opportunities, a contributor to social cohe- clude any form of creative endeavor that _ﺗﺒﺪع Creative Next — Creativity is the Way sion and sustainable human development, highlights the diversity and versatility of Forward.” and a vital source for economic transfor- creativity, regardless of products or ser- mation and social and economic progress. vices. As part of Ithra’s vision to de- This is of particular importance as research velop the creative industry in Sau- indicates that the creative industry is one Finally, the impact of creativity within di Arabia, Alsharqiya Gets Creative of the world’s most rapidly growing eco- the community will be discussed on social strives to make the Eastern Province the nomic sectors, and a transformative tool media platforms through sessions and di- Over 40 entities foremost destination for creativity in the for generating income, jobs, and exports. alogues related to the importance and im- to participate in Kingdom, to enhance the creative spirit in pact of creativity. Creativity Week. society, and to encourage talented people According to UNESCO, the creative in- to innovate and to think creatively. dustry recorded annual revenues of $2.25 trillion and scientific exports exceeding Approximately 60 Over 40 government and private en- $250 billion, and is expected to make up teachers will out- tities, 60 teachers from the educational to 10% of GDP. The creative economy line creativity maps sector, and several universities, colleges also creates approximately 30 million jobs for their students and social platforms will participate in the worldwide, half of which employ women. through educa- campaign as ambassadors in an effort to The campaign also strives to enhance cre- tional platforms. activate the creative spirit of community ativity, a vital pillar of Ithra’s vision, as sup- members and support a stimulating envi- ported by the entire Center through the ronment conducive to talent discovery and annual Tanween season. The creative development. industry is one of the world’s most The campaign also strives to support Education Sector rapidly growing innovation and youth through various Creativity Week will be initiated by economic creative initiatives, ideas and materials, teachers who have been specifically sectors. which will be shared on social media using trained by the Center to stimulate creativ- the hashtag #Alsharqiya_Gets_Creative ity among students by integrating creativi- throughout Creativity Week. The creative economy contributes about 30 million jobs worldwide.

your voice The ticking clock

Time is a strange thing. We get de- for granted. We assume there will al- Let’s wake up and realize that now lusional, delaying important things in ways be a time to say “thank you,” is the time to take action while the our lives, thinking that we have all “sorry,” or a simple, “I love you,” clock is still ticking. Time to take every eternity to do them. We lead our lives until a moment of truth is upon us, chance that comes our way to appre- in a reckless way, failing to realize which is our death. It takes away the ciate people in our lives. Time to show the fact that time is running out and opportunity from us to express our our gratitude and apologize wherever slowly slipping through our hands. feelings. and whenever it’s due.

We have many people in our lives, We face a moment when we wish Let’s make a pledge never to take each deserving some kind of human to have a little more time in our lives. things for granted anymore. Remem- courtesy from us. Nevertheless, we Time to be more susceptible and ber to take a moment every single day often fulfill our relationships and ob- more responsive to our fellow be- to thank and appreciate the people ligations casually. Without realizing ings. If only we had expressed our- around us. by Mahvish Baig that with each passing day and with selves openly and appreciated things Dhahran each tick of the clock, a part of us is around us more. Wishing we had tak- Let us work together toward show- [email protected] gone. en care of people around us a little ing our emotions and never lose more than we actually did. The iro- our priorities or get lost in the daily Many times, the daily grind takes ny of the fact is that once the clock grind of our lives. Let’s take charge Your Voice reflects the thoughts and opinions of the writer, and not necessarily those of the its toll on our relationships. We start stops, we have no chance to do any- of our lives while the clock is still publication. taking people and things around us thing about it. ticking. the arabian sun October 28, 2020 company news 5 AI Global Summit: for the good of humanity by Michael Ives

On Oct. 20 and 21, Aramco participated in the Global AI (Artificial Intel- ligence) Summit, hosted virtually from Riyadh.

Guided by the theme “AI for the Good of Humanity” and hosted by the Saudi Data and AI Authority and sponsored by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the summit highlighted that a new normal is shaping the world, with AI at the center.

Bringing together some of the world’s leading decision makers, technologists, innovators, and investors, the Global AI Summit was a unique global platform to explore what the new global era means to AI, how AI’s transformational potential can be best used to create a better future for all, and what this means for policy and decision makers interested in leveraging that potential, for the good of humanity.

A wide range of talks, panel sessions and town halls sought to deliver concrete recommendations on how to de- velop impactful national AI strategies in a post-recovery context and insights into AI innovations and investment trends. During the AI Summit, Ahmad A. Al Sa’adi noted that Aramco recognized early on the importance of utilizing and leveraging advanced technologies to The summit illustrated how data and best manage the Kingdom’s hydrocarbon resources. AI are massively transforming the world we live in, from businesses to industries, — was unparalleled at that time. Cur- to human lives. rently, TeraPOWERS, a trillion cell model incorporating AI, to further increase hy- AI in action at Khurais leveraging advanced drocarbon recovery as well as discovery, At Khurais, Saudi Aramco has We recognize the need is already in operation.” deployed 40,000 sensors covering technologies more than 500 oil wells over a huge Senior vice president of Technical Ser- for creating an Al Sa’adi also noted that similarly, in geographical area. With predictive vices, Ahmad A. Al Sa’adi, highlighted Aramco’s surface operations, early de- models designed to forecast well in his speech to Summit delegates that appropriate technology ployment of neural networks and infer- behavior, Aramco is able to take nations who understand the power of ential models in refineries planted the real-time action to control and transforming data into useful knowl- enabled collaborative seed for contemporary advancement in optimize production. With this edge will enjoy a strong and prosperous the use of AI and machine learning at technology, we have been able to future. “In fact, there is a marathon un- environment for our the company. reduce overall power consumption derway involving the world’s foremost teams to continue the by 18%, reduce maintenance costs economic powers to take the lead in by 30%, and cut inspection times by this area,” he said. AI technology three pillars around 40%. Al Sa’adi pointed out that Aramco Al Sa’adi noted that the Kingdom of innovation. continues to progress its digital trans- Khurais recently became Aramco’s Saudi Arabia was blessed with massive formation journey, where data and in- second facility, after ‘Uthmaniyah, to hydrocarbon resources and Aramco — Ahmad A. Al Sa’adi frastructure are cornerstones for digital receive the prestigious World recognized at an early stage the impor- transformation, built around three pil- Economic Forum Global Lighthouse tance of leveraging advanced technol- lars: Award for being a leader in the ogies to best manage these resources. adoption and integration of cutting- simulate our reservoirs at the highest 1. Data and Infrastructure edge technologies of the Fourth “Back in the 80s, we built a flagship resolution possible. This effort — under- 2. Technology Industrial Revolution. reservoir simulator, called POWERS, to taken with the aid of supercomputing 3. Capabilities Building

data and Infrastructure As a result of deploying more than fast track AI solutions’ development 100,000 Internet of Things and smart and deployment. devices, virtual reality solutions, cybersecurity operations, and data an- capability building alytics, Al Sa’adi highlighted that the Al Sa’adi noted Aramco’s focus on company’s data storage capacity will building capabilities and developing tal- quadruple by 2025. In addition, the ent to take the full advantage of digi- company has invested in a world-class, talizing. “We have already started sev- scalable data center and its comput- eral programs, including hosted master ing infrastructure will increase by four degrees with KAUST, Georgia Tech, and times. IE University in Spain,” he said.

technology In closing, Al Sa’adi noted that Saudi “On the technology front,” Al Sa’adi Aramco has both a progressive AI strat- said, “we recognize the need for creat- egy and an active execution program ing an appropriate technology enabled leading to real results, while creating collaborative environment for our teams economic value. to continue the AI technology innovation.” He noted that the company has “I’m proud that Aramco and the King- Incorporating AI, Aramco’s TeraPOWERS simulator is a next generation numerical simulator that established the Fourth Industrial Revo- dom are at the forefront of the AI revo- enables solving of trillion-cell reservoir and basin models to aid exploration in discovering new oil and gas fields and reservoir management to significantly increase hydrocarbon recovery. lution Center to foster innovation and lution,” he said. October 28, 2020 the arabian sun the arabian sun October 28, 2020 6 company news company news 7 CTO leads practical low carbon energy thinking Hydrogen: Energy carrier for both power and mobility

lowering emissions from the existing ener- amount of space, and to efficiently and energy transition impact The world will continue to depend on gy industry in the short to medium term, effectively store and transport hydrogen, of COVID- crude oil — an essential part of modern would certainly pay back. it needs to be shrunk into liquid or com- life — to provide energy, construction and pressed hydrogen. Indications are that COVID-19 has reduced household materials, and personal items I don’t want to get Pointing to the potential for total world- the planet’s greenhouse gas emissions, but such as fabric for clothing. wide emissions reduction from existing Al-Khowaiter said hydrogen becoming this pause in economic growth is an unrealis- ahead of the good technology, Al-Khowaiter said this “could transportable was significant, “Instead of tic strategy for the world’s energy transition. The petroleum industry is an important have an immediate impact, and reduce being produced and consumed in the same part of the solution to meet the climate things we are doing in emissions globally, at a very large scale.” location, what we are seeing for the first Even so — just as testing times bring the goals of the Paris Agreement. time is hydrogen becoming a tradable com- best of the human spirit to the fore — the the traditional energy “I don’t want to get ahead of the good modity.” pandemic’s disruption and its ongoing en- Siemens Energy hosted the Middle East things we are doing in the traditional en- durance, has the world seemingly thinking and Africa (MEA) Energy Week conference industry, and say we ergy industry, and say we are just going to Adding that blue hydrogen was achiev- more clearly about energy sustainably. from Dubai, and participating on the panel are just going to replace everything with blue,” he added. able by oil and gas processing, Al-Khowait- alongside Al-Khowaiter was Morocco’s ener said, “We have most of the hydrogen Supplying clean energy affordably and re- ergy minister, HE Aziz Rabbah, Germany’s replace everything production already, what we need to do is liably is a collective challenge for our world; head of energy policy, Thorsten Herdan, lightest element can add the decarbonization option, which is however, there is no single and simple solu- Mubadala Aerospace executive director, with blue (hydrogen). energize lighter footprint very much a possibility given the technolo- tion to decarbonize the world’s energy sys- Badr Al-Olama, and Siemens EVP New En- Hydrogen, a primary component of oil gies are now mature.” tems. ergy Business, Armin Schnettler. — Ahmad O. Al-Khowaiter and gas, is a clean and affordable energy carrier for both power generation and road transportation. Sustainable fuel Al-Khowaiter said it was exciting to see a new energy carrier integrating with the tra- for the future ditional hydrocarbon-based energy system. In 2019, Aramco inaugurated Saudi Arabia’s first hydrogen fuel cell vehicle “This is the idea of bringing together, in fueling station at Dhahran Techno Val- a transitionary way, the green and blue [hy- ley Science Park. drogen], and really the conventional fossil fuels and the new energy world,” he said. The company is using the fuel sta- Global use of hydrogen is expected to grow as a sustainable large-scale energy supply, and at last week’s “Middle East and Africa Energy Week” conference, Aramco chief technology officer Ahmad O. Al-Khowaiter participated on a panel discussing how the public and private sector can work tion to test-drive a fleet of hydrogen together to enable the large-scale industrialization of hydrogen. Aramco, a leading global producer of oil cars. and gas from the world’s largest reservoirs, already owns and operates the significant The study is an important step to- infrastructure needed for the safe and ward making oil-to-hydrogen a reality. by Janet Pinheiro Al-Khowaiter, who participated in a panel way among the upbeat thinking of the abundant production of hydrogen. discussion and delivered an impactful mes- three-day virtual conference, Al-Khowait- Hydrogen and fuel cell technologies International experts from across the sage about the practical reality of decar- er explained how replacing the world’s Al-Khowaiter said Aramco was looking at are well positioned to be part of the energy value chain connected virtually at bonizing the world’s energy systems. capital-intensive energy system requires the business case for the large-scale supply solution toward reducing carbon emis- last week’s “Middle East and Africa Energy significant time and investment. of hydrogen, and said existing infrastruc- sions and addressing climate concerns. Week” conference to drive forward the en- Hydrogen — our planet’s lightest and ture should be leveraged as much as pos- ergy industry’s low carbon agenda. most abundant element — was consistent- While championing the case for hydrogen sible. Examining the practicality of hydro- ly highlighted as a key enabler of a more as a prominent low carbon energy vector gen for mobility use could be a sig- With COVID-19’s disruption to the ener- sustainable future during the experts’ talks on the sustainability horizon, Al-Khowaiter “We are doing a lot of research, basically nificant contribution toward a clean, gy sector bringing the world’s sustainability on the pace and mix of tomorrow’s energy cautioned that building a new energy sys- looking at the whole chain, from produc- secure, and affordable energy future. goals to a defining moment, the confer- transition. tem as large as the existing system was a tion, to transport, which is the biggest chal- ence energy visionaries’ thinking was both massive undertaking. lenge,” he said. Aramco continues to be focused crisp and collaborative. on creating breakthrough low carbon big impact from practical “I don’t want to get ahead of ourselves technologies and solutions. Among the energy shapers was Aram- actions now in saying we are going to get there in 30 transporting hydrogen co’s chief technology officer, Ahmad O. As hydrogen enticingly weaved its years,” he said, adding that focusing on Like any gas, hydrogen takes up a huge

Conceptual Flow Diagram of “Blue Ammonia” Supply Chain Demonstration Ammonia low carbon energy possibilities (Duration: August 2020 – October 2020) N2 50 kW Micro Gas Turbine Aramco delivered a powerful message “We took natural gas, converted that Natural (Koriyama, Japan) Gas N about our planet’s energy transition to ammonia, captured the carbon diox- H2 Blue 2 Instead of being + when last month it shipped to Japan a ide, sequestered the carbon dioxide in Ammonia Hydrogen CO Ammonia H2O new and cleaner fuel source for gener- our enhanced oil recovery project, and 2 Plant, Jubail H produced and Plant, Jubail 2 MW Gas Turbine ating electricity. therefore, transferred what is called H (Yokohama, Japan) blue ammonia — low carbon ammonia consumed in the The 40-ton shipment was for ze- — to Japan for use in power genera- ro-carbon power generation by a power tion,” he said. hydrogen molecule same location, what CO2 Capture Co-ﬁring in a Boiler station in Japan. Plant, Jubail (Aioi, Japan) “Once the hydrogen has been decar- we are seeing for the It demonstrates the possibilities of bonized, it really doesn’t make any dif- ammonia as a decarbonized energy ference whether it is green or blue.” first time is hydrogen Utilization commodity. N Since 2014, Japan has worked toward becoming a tradable Al-Khowaiter described Aramco as a hydrogen-based society to establish a H Enhanced Oil Recovery Methanol H commodity. Pilot Plant, ‘Uthmaniyah Plant, Jubail Hydrocarbons are a reliable and affordable source of low carbon hydrogen and ammonia, and “setting the course” by investing in the more sustainable energy sector. Saudi Aramco: Company General Use first blue ammonia Aramco’s significant processing, pipeline and refining infrastructure — and expertise in carbon transportation of decarbonized energy capture — means the company is well placed to feasibly contribute to a hydrogen-powered low ammonia through hydrogen. — Ahmad O. Al-Khowaiter shipment carbon economy. H molecule October 28, 2020 the arabian sun 8 company news Staying vigilant, keep COVID- numbers down

One thing the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us is that Saudi Aramco, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, are capable of amazing things when they put their minds to it.

Eight months of vigilance and hard work have paid off. If current trends continue, the worst could be behind us.

Those are the key words: “if current trends continue.”

Across the world, we can see the news reports of a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic striking just as the flu season begins. In the U.S., the pandemic hit a record peak of 82,900 new cases in a single day on Oct. 23. Across Europe, daily new case rates are rising to their highest levels since the springtime peaks, and in countries such as Russia, Poland, Greece, and the Czech Republic, the daily rates for new cases have sur- passed the springtime levels and are con- tinuing to rise.

Globally, COVID-19 has struck 42,670,015 individuals since the outset of the pandemic, and 1,146,063 people have died, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. The hardest hit nations so far are the U.S., India, and Brazil, with total deaths of 225,229, 119,014, infection rates are the result of discipline we cannot afford to become complacent. every one of us taking this coronavirus and 156,903, respectively. and hard work, in following the behav- The suffering we see in other nations — seriously. iors we all learned from the beginning of some of the richest in the world — is For the moment, there are no signs of a the outbreak: avoiding large gatherings, something we must strive to avoid. Each person who works here is valuable. second wave in Saudi Arabia. Our falling wearing masks, washing our hands and We are all contributing to the success of a maintaining good hygiene, and maintain- The only way to prevent a second company that produces energy that pow- ing a physical distance from each other wave of COVID-19 here in the Kingdom ers the global economy. We all have fami- new of at least 2 meters. is to remain vigilant against the coro- lies who love us and depend on us, and we navirus both at work and in our home can share with our family members the re- Coronavirus The results of our good discipline are lives; to remain resilient in maintaining minder to stay safe at home and in public. (COVID-) tangible and impressive. the behaviors that have kept us and our families and friends safe for the past We have come so far, and achieved so page But as some of our favorite restau- eight months; and to remind others, much. Let’s keep up the efforts that have rants, cafes, and night spots open up, gently, that all of our safety depends on kept us safe, and reach our goal together. Yanbu’ Refinery hosts Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign by Fadia Bandar and Raghad Alghamdi thanked the team for their efforts to host such an important program, especially Breast cancer is the most commonly oc- during the current COVID-19 pandemic. curring cancer in women, and the second most common cancer overall. Among At the conclusion, Al-Shami handed out women, breast cancer continues to be the prizes to the competition winners and rep- most frequently diagnosed cancer, and the resentative gifts to all the attendees fol- second leading cause of cancer death in lowed by cutting the cake to document this women. successful and educational event.

As Breast Cancer Awareness month, Oc- The female attendees were each handed tober serves as a reminder for all women to a giveaway present selectively picked by the conduct their annual screening in the hope event organizers. Overall, the that by doing so, early detection will lead to event was a success, and more positive outcomes in the fight against the management, along breast cancer. with the assessors, tive measures. In addition, Mahjoob gave ager Abdulatif S. Al-Shami delivered the shared their appre- On Oct. 13, 2020, with the extended a live demonstration on how to conduct closing remarks and thanked the attendees ciation and positive support of Johns Hopkins Aramco Health- a self-check. Later, the female attendees for their interest to attend such an import- feedback toward care, the Yanbu’ Refinery Department host- enjoyed their time by participating in fun ant program. Al-Shami provided additional the effort and sup- ed a Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign competitions and winning prizes. thanks to Mahjoob for her valuable partici- port that was given for Yanbu’ area female employees. The pation, effort, and input. to the cause. The at- main objective of this campaign was to To disclose the attendees’ privacy, the tendees left the cam- educate and spread knowledge on breast campaign included a private booth for a The King Abdulaziz Quality Assessment paign with a valuable cancer causes, symptoms, and benefits of one-on-one Q&A session with the doctors. Team attended the program’s closing and message to pass on to early detection. To add a twist to the event, Mahjoob in- their loved ones. troduced Kamboucha tea and highlighted The event began with opening remarks its benefits and uses, and its relation to our by the campaign organizers, followed by overall health. an interactive lecture given by one female guest doctor, Dr. Hadeel Mahjoob. The lec- Yanbu’ Refinery management joined the ture highlighted causes, symptoms, stages rest of the attendees toward the end of and types of treatment and some preven- the program where Yanbu’ Refinery man- the arabian sun October 28, 2020 company news 9 Aramcons win ‘Absher Hackathon’ to improve MOI services

Three Aramco employees achieved to share their digital identity with third a first place finish in the Absher Hack- parties securely and privately. The Min- athon, which was held on Oct. 9-10 by istry had been looking for better ways the Ministry of Interior (MOI). to share an individual’s identity information, enhancing the protection of indi- The Hackathon strived to empower viduals from identity theft and possible young talents in employing recent tech- blackmailing. This solution maintains nologies to improve MOI services. High- data integrity while enabling citizens to lighted technologies included artificial share selective information with third intelligence, Internet of Things, Big Data, parties via the Absher application and drones, and Blockchain. thereby prevent the leakage of unsolic- ited data. The recognized Aramco team includ- Hussain A. Alaidarous Faisal A. Julaidan Yasir M. Ghunaim ed Hussain A. Alaidarous, an IT systems The award was presented by the Dep- analyst from the Area Information Tech- uty Minister of the Interior, HE Dr. Nasser nology Department (AITD), Faisal A. Ju- Department (COD), and Yasir M. Ghu- The winning team implemented a bin Abdulaziz Al Daoud, and HRH Prince laidan, a computer operating system naim, an engineer from the Process and proof of concept solution using Block- Bandar bin Abdullah Al Mishari, Assistant specialist from the Computer Operations Control Systems Department (P&CSD). chain technology that allows citizens Minister of Interior for Technology Affairs. Concrete achievement, Aramco collects major concrete construction award Dhahran — Aramco was honored last ners across various award categories from edge Center, the Energy Computer Center, week by the American Concrete Institute low-rise, mid-rise, high-rise, infrastructure, the Conference Center Auditorium, the (ACI) for excellence in the construction of repair and restoration, to decorative con- Research Library, and Musalla. the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and crete. Research Center (KAPSARC). The company The design concept of the center is a cel-

was announced as the first place winner in The company’s nomination of projects to lular, partial modular system that integrates Congratulations! June 11, 2020

the Decorative Concrete category on Tues- this prestigious award started in 2019 by different buildings as a single assembly Dear Applicant,

Your project, King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and day night at the ACI’s 2020 virtual Con- Engineering Services as an initiative to pro- with interconnecting public spaces. The Research Center, was awarded the Decorative Concrete First Place Winner of category, for ACI's 2020 Excellence in Concrete Construction Awards ! vention Excellence in Concrete Construc- mote excellence in the local construction main building consists of a basement and ACI and the International Project Awards Committee would like to invite you to Gala on Monday evening, attend ACI’s Awards October 26, 2020 in Raleigh, North Carolina to receive your award be recognized and honored . You will tion Awards session. industry in collaboration with Project Man- three floors of a concrete framed structure. by your peers for your outstanding work. Please do not communicate or disclose your winning status until after the Gala.

The Gala will take place at the Raleigh Convention Center – Ballroom C agement and with the ACI Saudi Arabian The building envelop consists of a steel formal (i.e. Suit and tie/cocktail dress). . Dress attire will be business Event schedule for the evening of Monday, October as follows: 26, 2020, is The awards event, which was held virtu- Chapter. Winning the award is recognition structure covered by glass fiber reinforced • Awardee Rehearsal: TBD • Doors Open & Reception: 7:00 pm • Dinner & Awards Presentation: 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm ally this year, honors the visions of creative by the construction industry for innovation concrete cladding panels and glazing. • Red Carpet Interviews: 10:30 pm - 11:30 pm

A dynamic digital projects throughout the global concrete and creativity in projects executed by Ar- video display of your beautiful work will be the highlight of the evening and will be presented by our Emcee. Suspense will build throughout the evening announcement of the in anticipation of the overall “Excellence” award project winner. design and construction community. They amco. This engineering masterpiece employs a Attached to this letter, you will find specific details on complimentary tickets, accommodations, and convention registration. As soon as our convention logistics have been finalized for the day of the event, recognize concrete projects at the fore- variety of sustainable building techniques you will also be provided with an event itinerary explaining pick up photos and interviews; and review time for badges/tickets; schedule for of seating and placement for awards acceptance . front of innovation and technology and “We are pleased to receive this pres- and advanced technologies and has Again, congratulations and I look forward to meeting you!

highlight these projects to inspire excel- tigious award in recognition of Aramco’s achieved LEED Platinum certification from Emily Fogleman lence in concrete design and construction. creativity and innovation in developing the U.S. Green Building Council. Chapter Activities Coordinator

and executing complex industrial and infrastructure projects,” said Ahmad A. Al These awards are shared by the project’s creativity and innovation Sa’adi, senior vice president of Technical partners, including architecture and design The ACI Excellence in Concrete Con- Services. firm ZAHA-HADID, ARUP Engineering, struction is a prestigious award that rec- general and concrete contractor Drake & ognizes concrete projects at the forefront KAPSARC is a premier, globally recog- Scull International, and concrete suppliers of innovation and technology, and show- nized center for energy and environmen- Al Kifah, ETE, and Saudi Ready mix, and cases these projects to inspire excellence in tal research and policy studies. The center the ACI Saudi Arabian Chapter for tremen- concrete design and construction around covers an area of 70,000 m2, and includes dous support and collaboration endorsing the world. ACI recognizes project win- five buildings, namely the Energy Knowl- the nomination. October 28, 2020 the arabian sun 10 community Fall Migration 2020 Catch the action at Al Ahsa’s birdwatching hotspots

by Gregory R. Askew

With COVID-19 still limiting travel, migratory birds tease us with the purest symbol of what’s been curtailed for so many of us — the freedom of movement. Yet one unexpected gift of the pandemic-era lockdowns has been a renewed awareness of the wonders of the natural world around us. In these quieter mo- ments, while the human world waits, we have an opportunity to bear witness to an incredible natural occurrence, one that has been happening annually since time immemorial.

Every year, hundreds of millions of birds, representing nearly 300 species, tran- sit through Saudi Arabia along the Afri- can-Eurasian flyway. This spectacular year- ly passage is currently under way, as adult birds and their offspring head toward non-breeding sites in southern Arabia and Africa. Some areas in the Kingdom are even A garden warbler, a hospitable enough to encourage them to plain, unassuming, but winter here. sweet little songster, at Al Asfar Lake. One need not have special knowledge or skills to catch the action. Smaller migratory birds, like hoopoes, bee-eaters, swallows, One of the A male and wagtails can be encountered in and resident black Eastern black scrub robins redstart around the landscaping in residential areas at Al Ahsa perched atop or at work sites, refueling for the next leg National Park. a tamarisk of their journey. tree in Al Ahsa National Looking up, especially in October, you Park. just might spy larger birds, such as storks, eagles, and falcons, gaining height from uplifts of warm air rising from the desert floor. However, for those looking for a chance to re-connect with nature and more deeply immerse themselves in the wonder and beauty, Al Ahsa plays host to some of the best birdwatching spots in the King- dom, including Al Asfar Lake, Al Ahsa Na- tional Park, and Al Uqair Beach.

The permanent water and thick vegeta- prey calling the Kingdom home during the Less than an hour to the east of Al Hofuf witness a huge flock of Socotra cormorant, tion make Al Asfar Lake one of the most winter. is Al Uqair, a tiny, unpopulated port on the a threatened diving bird only found in the productive hotspots in the whole country. Arabian Gulf. Visit in the morning and you Arabian Gulf and the Arabian Sea, in search The mud flats, shoals, and shallows attract If you find yourself desperate for a stroll just might find the undeveloped stretches of good fishing. thousands of wading birds, such as sand- beneath the trees, Al Ahsa National Park in either direction all to yourself. The odd pipers and plovers, many of which have is the place to go. The extensive plantings clusters of trees running along the coast The theme of this year’s World Migratory the longest annual migrations in the bird and adjacent scrubby desert are a veritable are popular with many of the bird species Bird Day (October 10) was “birds connect world, using Saudi Arabia as a stopover on magnet for migrant birds like shrikes, war- that can be seen throughout the Kingdom our world.” Sure, birds transcend national their way to the southern hemisphere and blers, flycatchers, redstarts, and wheatears. during their migration. boundaries. However, at a time when so back. Meanwhile, the reeds, rushes, and This is also the best place in the Eastern Later in the season, the gray hypocoli- many of us are aching to see family and tamarisks around the lakeshore offer cover Province to see the black scrub robin, an us can be seen eating dates from the wild friends back home, getting outside to enjoy and sustenance for familiar Eurasian birds energetic resident species with a comically palms that grow nearly up to the water’s the natural world can also help us connect like the blackcap and common nightingale. long tail. As the park is a popular picnicking edge. The tidal flats and lagoons near the to a deeper sense of well-being, so critical If you’re lucky, you just might spot a steppe spot, the best time to visit is early morning, port are good places to look for shorebirds during these difficult times. Birds can help eagle, an impressive yet endangered bird of especially on Fridays. and waders, and just offshore, you might re-connect us with ourselves.

An immature greater spotted eagle at Al Asfar A female gray hypocolius breakfasting on last The familiar Eurasian hoopoe is a common yard A stunning European bee-eater, a regular Lake. season’s dates at Al Uqair Beach. bird during migration. passage visitor to the Eastern Province. the arabian sun October 28, 2020 health page 11 To protect you … a shot against the flu The flu season is upon us, and this year its arrival coincides with the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a lot to process when it comes to talk of vaccines, prevention, and Flu Prevention during Coronavirus Pandemic awareness, while keeping an eye out for COVID-19. What should you do differently Fall and winter months bring the flu season. in 2020 to ensure your own safety and that Here is what you need to know to protect you and your family from the u and COVID-19. of the people you love? Taking time out of his busy schedule as John Hopkins Aramco Healthcare’s (JHAH) incident commander and director of Infec- FLU COVID-19 tion Control, Dr. Jaffar Al-Tawfiq answers PREVENTION your most pressing flu questions: Flu shot. A flu shot protects you and your Physical distancing, mask wearing, family from the most common strains of and frequent hand washing helps Does the flu vaccine protect me from the flu. Visit JHAH.com to nd out where, to prevent COVID-19 and also COVID-19? when, and how to get your u shot. protect against the flu. The flu vaccine is meant to protect you from influenza (the flu) and has been prov- SYMPTOMS en to decrease your risk of catching the flu Flu and COVID-19 and possible hospitalization. There are a few Flu and COVID-19 can have similar symptoms. Call a doctor or health care center if you have any of these symptoms: suggestions in the scientific literature that the influenza vaccine may indirectly activate • Stuffy or runny nose • Muscle or body aches • New loss of taste or smell the immune system; however, further stud- • Cough • Nausea or vomiting • Shortness of breath or difculty Diarrhea New fatigue/feeling tired breathing ies are needed. • • • Fever or without energy • Sore throat • Headache Is it possible to get the flu and COVID-19 at the same time? WHAT TO EXPECT Yes, patients may be infected with re- Fever and aches should end within five days. Some people may not experience any spiratory viruses (such as influenza) and symptoms. For mild cases, recovery can COVID-19 simultaneously. Coughing and fatigue can last about two weeks. Speak to your doctor if symptoms get take up to two weeks, in severe COVID-19 worse. Severe cases may lead to cases recovery can be up to six weeks or Why is it more important for me to hospitalization or death. more. COVID-19 may also lead to lasting get the flu vaccine during the COVID-19 organ damage, hospitalization, or death. outbreak? This year, the COVID-19 public health crisis TREATMENT means that avoiding an unnecessary hospital stay is more important than ever. Taking the Rest, a fever reducer, such as ibuprofen, and an Mild cases: rest, fever reducers, and flu shot can help protect you against the flu antiviral medicine to reduce the amount of time cough medicine. and decrease the risk of being hospitalized you have the flu and prevent complications. Serious cases: hospitalization, breathing because of the flu. support with a ventilator or other therapies. I’m practicing physical distancing, do I CAUSE still have to get vaccinated against the It is caused by several different This disease is caused by a flu? influenza viruses that change each coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, Yes, physical distancing is a preventive year, which is why there is a new which emerged in 2019. measure for both COVID-19 and influenza, vaccine each u season. yet the risk for COVID-19 and the flu is very much still there. The influenza vaccine will provide additional protection for you and those around you. This year, the COVID-19 public health crisis means that avoiding an unnecessary hospital visit or inpatient stay due to the u is more important than ever. Why get the flu vaccination? As reported by the Saudi Ministry of Health (MoH), the seasonal influenza “flu” Sources: Dr. Jaffar Al-Tawfiq, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare (JHAH); JHAH Marketing and Communications; Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2020. affects 600 million people globally, and is fa- tal in around 500,000 cases per year.

Who is at a higher risk for health complications from the flu? • People aged 65 years and older • Pregnant women • Children between 6 months and 23 months of age. (WHO) recommend that everyone aged six For the full schedule and locations, please er. Get the flu shot, stay safe and comforted People of any age who have chronic med- months and older get the flu vaccine to pre- visit our JHAH.com Flu Vaccination webpage. knowing that we at JHAH continue to pri- ical conditions such as heart, lung, liver, or vent infection from the influenza virus or to oritize the safety and well-being of you and kidney disease are also at a higher risk for reduce the severity of the illness. If you are visiting a JHAH facility, please your family. flu complications. People who have sup- follow the guidance on our “Safe at JHAH” pressed immune systems from chemother- How can I protect myself and my fam- webpage and continue to observe the 3 Ws: apy treatments for cancer, or people who ily from COVID-19 when heading out to • Wear a mask take immunosuppressive medication, such take the flu vaccine? • Watch your distance as prednisone, are also at a higher risk. To make getting the flu shot safer and eas- • Wash or sanitize your hands frequently. ier, JHAH is providing more locations outside Should my family get the flu vaccine? our hospitals to get vaccinated than ever be- During these unprecedented times, extra JHAH and the World Health Organization fore, including a drive-through option. protection against disease can be a lifesav-

The Arabian Sun is a North Admin Building, Room AN-1080, Publishing director: Meteb Al-Qahtani Articles and coverage can be Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi weekly publication issued C-05A, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia Editors: Jamsheed Din, Todd Williams, requested through CRM. Aramco) is a joint stock company, with free of charge by the Telephone (013) 876-0374 William Bradshaw Correspondence may be addressed to certificate of registration number Corporate Communication Email: [email protected] Editorial staff: Musherf Alamri, the editor, North Admin Building, 2052101105, having its principal office Support Department for ISSN: 1319-156X Eamonn Houston, Scott Baldauf, Room AN-1080, C-05A. at P.O. Box 5000, Dhahran, Postal Code Saudi Aramco employees. Articles may be reproduced provided Dalia Darweesh and Rawan Nasser. 31311, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and The Arabian Sun is credited. Designer: Husam Nasr. with fully paid capital of SAR 60,000,000,000. the arabian sun October 28, 2020 12 Fall Migration 2020 Catch the action at Al Ahsa’s birdwatching hotspots see page 10

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Fields of lavender

Sara M. Alkazzaz captured this panoramic view of a field of lavender in Provence, France, two years ago with her Nikon D810 camera. Alkazzaz is a process engineer in the Digital Transformation Department. She has been with the company for five years.