SAOGE 2008 officially kicks off

The Saudi Arabian Oil & Gas Conference & Exhibition (SAOGE), held under the High Patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed Bin Fahad Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, Governor of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, was officially inaugurated by Mr. Zareeb Saeed Al-Qahtani, the Under Secretary of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.

Attracting high level technical experts and key industry professionals from around the globe, the attendees will be given the opportunity to delve into the various issues, updates and advancements across all sectors of the oil and gas industry via a host of technical sessions that will take place over the three day conference.

Mr. Abdulla Abdulaziz Al-Naim, Vice President, Petroleum Engineering at Saudi Aramco gave the key note speech at the conference. "This conference has attracted a diverse and dynamic group of business leaders, professionals and scientists, bringing them together in one of the most important spots in the world for energy and the home of Saudi Aramco, the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia."

"The exchange of information, ideas and viewpoints is essential for the continued growth of the industry, and SAOGE represents an excellent venue for just that," concluded Mr. Al-Naim.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Piero Zipoli, President, IES said, "I would like to thank everyone for joining us at this momentous event. It is a privilege for us to welcome so many local, regional and international visitors and we are looking forward to the topical discussions and technical presentations on the key issues facing the oil and gas industry today. With so many industry leaders in the same place at the same time, the take home benefits achieved through this conference should be exceptional."

SAOGE 2008 is taking place at the Dhahran International Exhibition Centre from the 17th to 19th November.