ADIPEC 2023 - Hunting's Strategic Expansion in Dubai: Insights from Graham Goodall

Can you tell me more about the new facility?

The new facility will be situated within the manufacturing zone of Jebel Ali Freezone (JAFZA). The facility will be a purpose built on a 14,000 SQM plot, where we will construct a 3700 SQM custom built warehouse, yard and office space that will focus on the manufacture of Well Intervention and Surface Well Testing Products while continuing to support OOR operations and all other Hunting product lines in the region. We expect the site will be fully operational by Q3/2024.

The facility will bring additional capacity and capabilities that will allow Hunting to increase manufacturing, operational through put (output?) and after sales support ultimately providing a more efficient and higher level of service delivery to our customers in the region.

What does this facility mean for customers?

The new facility will enable Hunting to expand on our existing Well Intervention and Organic Oil Recovery product ranges that we currently supply from our UAE facility, while also allowing us to increase capacity and provide regional bases for other product lines. We will be adding the manufacture of Surface Well Testing products to our manufacturing capabilities which will allow us to support our clients across the MENA region. Having these products manufactured in the region will significantly reduce lead times for customers.

As part of our growth plan, we're expanding our SWT product fleet for rental, including servicing and aftersales support. This regional hub will enhance our service to new and existing EMEA customers.

How does the opening of the new facility align with the company’s growth strategy?

The Middle East is a key strategic growth area for the company and the construction of the new facility in Dubai, plus the expansion plans in Saudi Arabia, demonstrate the commitment we have to the MENA region as part of our recently announced 2030 vision. [Hunting] regards the Middle East region as an important part of the company’s future growth, and all product lines have objectives to increase activity in the region. The new flagship facility in Dubai will lay the foundation for that growth.

What are our environmental commitments with the new facility?

The facility has been designed specifically with a number of sustainability and carbon reducing features that will ensure we are providing a safe and comfortable working environment for our employees as well as building a facility that is focuses on reducing water and electricity consumption.

Key Features:

• Solar Panels will be installed on the roofline which in turn will be returned to the grid.
• Fully Airconditioned Warehouse to ensure our employees are working at a comfortable temperature.
• Atmospheric water generation system that will be reused within the facility for air conditioning and water supply.
• Grey Water Treatment Plant.

How will the new facility support the economy and community?

Due to the expansion, we will need to staff up accordingly across many technical disciplines and plan to increase our headcount by at least 50% over the next two years. Hunting is a great place to work and provides a secure and supportive workplace in our community. Our culture encourages collaboration, growth, and work-life balance. As an employer, we prioritise the well-being and professional development of our employees, ensuring they feel valued and motivated.