Three Themes Shaping Conversations at OPES 2026
We recently attended OPES 2026 in Muscat, joining operators, contractors, technology providers and industry leaders from across the region to discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of energy.
This year’s event provided an excellent platform to showcase our capabilities and connect with customers and partners. But it also offered valuable insight into the conversations driving the industry forward. Across exhibition halls, conference sessions and customer meetings, several common themes emerged.
From the growing importance of In-Country Value (ICV) and local capability development to the continued focus on operational efficiency, automation and integrated service delivery, the discussions reinforced many of the priorities we are seeing across the market today.
Here are three key themes that stood out to the BENTEC team during OPES 2026.
1. In-Country Value Remains a Strategic Priority
One of the strongest themes at OPES 2026 was the continued emphasis on In-Country Value (ICV). Across Oman, operators and government stakeholders remain focused on developing local capabilities, strengthening domestic supply chains and increasing the value retained within the country.
As projects become more complex and investment continues across the energy sector, there is growing demand for partners that can combine global expertise with local delivery capability.
This extends beyond equipment supply. Customers are increasingly looking for local engineering support, manufacturing capability, maintenance services and long-term partnerships that contribute to sustainable growth within Oman.
At BENTEC, this aligns closely with our investment in local capability through our Nizwa facility, where we continue to expand our ability to support customers with engineering, equipment services and aftermarket solutions delivered closer to where they operate.
2. The Drive for Efficiency Continues
Despite ongoing market opportunities, cost remains a key consideration for operators and contractors alike.
Many conversations centred around improving productivity, increasing operational efficiency and finding ways to do more with existing resources. Customers are seeking technologies, services and operating models that can improve performance while controlling costs.
Automation and mechanisation featured heavily throughout the event, particularly solutions that reduce manual intervention, improve consistency and remove personnel from higher-risk areas of operations.
From rig floor automation to digital monitoring technologies, the focus is increasingly shifting towards solutions that improve both safety and productivity simultaneously.
We are focused on supporting these objectives through advanced rig automation, digital technologies and equipment solutions designed to improve operational performance, enhance safety and help customers achieve more efficient drilling operations.
The future belongs to organisations that can deliver global expertise through local capability.
3. Customers Want Integrated Solutions, Not Individual Products
Another recurring theme was the desire for more integrated delivery models.
Rather than sourcing individual products and services from multiple suppliers, many customers are looking for partners capable of supporting a broader portion of the project lifecycle through engineering expertise, equipment solutions, operational support and aftermarket services.
This trend reflects a wider industry focus on reducing complexity, improving accountability and creating greater efficiency across projects.
At the same time, growing pressure on supply chains and increased market competition are encouraging companies to look for partners that can provide flexibility, local support and long-term service capability.
This is where BENTEC continues to see strong alignment with customer needs. By combining engineering, manufacturing, operational support and aftermarket services, we help customers access a broader range of capabilities through a single partner, supporting them throughout the lifecycle of their assets.
Looking Ahead
While the energy sector continues to navigate market uncertainty, one thing was clear throughout OPES 2026: the industry remains focused on delivering greater value through local capability, operational efficiency and stronger partnerships.
For companies operating in Oman and across the wider region, success will increasingly depend on the ability to combine technology, expertise and local presence to solve real operational challenges and support long-term customer goals.
As these priorities continue to evolve, BENTEC remains committed to supporting customers through local delivery, engineering expertise and integrated lifecycle solutions that help improve performance, reliability and long-term value.
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