Jafari said the company has developed a digital transformation and AI roadmap in line with national policies, industry requirements and global trends. Drawing on the experience of major international oil companies, the plan is intended to modernize exploration activities and establish a framework for future technology deployment.

A key objective is to address two longstanding challenges: lengthy exploration timelines and data quality. Jafari said exploration projects in undeveloped areas can take up to eight years from geological studies to drilling results. The new strategy aims to cut discovery times by as much as 50% while improving the accuracy of geological, geophysical and reservoir data used in decision-making.

The company is prioritizing AI applications in geophysical data processing and drilling operations. Machine learning tools are expected to improve subsurface imaging, reduce drilling risks and increase operational efficiency. Additional efforts focus on petrophysics, drilling fluids and real-time drilling analysis to better predict formation behavior and mitigate issues such as fluid losses and well-control incidents.

Several operational AI projects are already underway, including the digitization and intelligent interpretation of petrophysical logs. The company is also building a centralized data-management platform designed to integrate, cleanse and organize geological, geophysical and drilling information, creating a foundation for broader AI adoption.

Jafari emphasized the role of Iranian knowledge-based companies and academic experts in developing and implementing the program. Much of the work related to AI, data mining and intelligent systems is expected to be carried out by domestic technology firms.

The initiative supports Iran’s long-term goal of increasing discovered hydrocarbon reserves and strengthening its position within Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. Jafari said Iran currently holds about 208 billion barrels of oil reserves and believes digital technologies can help accelerate exploration and unlock additional resources.

Exploration activities are currently focused on the Zagros region, the Fars High and northeastern Iran, where new gas discoveries and storage opportunities are considered strategic priorities. The roadmap will be implemented in three phases through 2036, progressing from infrastructure development to advanced AI-enabled exploration and predictive, self-improving systems. Officials say the effort is essential for maintaining competitiveness as regional rivals continue investing heavily in digital technologies and AI.