Horizontal Directional Drilling Method Statement in Saudi Arabia
Introduction
Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) has become the preferred trenchless technology for underground utility installation in Saudi Arabia. It enables the installation of pipelines, conduits, and cables beneath roads, railways, waterways, and urban infrastructure with minimal surface disruption.
This method statement outlines the systematic approach, equipment, safety, and quality considerations for executing HDD projects in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Saudi Building Code (SBC) and Saudi Aramco / Civil Defense requirements.
Scope of Work
Horizontal Directional Drilling Method Statement in Saudi Arabia
The HDD method applies to the installation of:
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Oil & Gas Pipelines (steel and HDPE).
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Potable Water and Sewer Lines.
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Telecommunication and Fiber Optic Cables.
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Electrical Power Conduits.
Projects typically include crossings under highways, railways, industrial complexes, and congested urban areas.
HDD Methodology
1. Site Survey & Planning
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Conduct geotechnical investigations (soil composition, groundwater levels).
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Identify underground utilities through as-built drawings and GPR scanning.
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Prepare method statement and risk assessment approved by client/consultant.
2. Setting Out & Mobilization
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Establish entry and exit pits based on alignment.
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Mobilize HDD rig, mud mixing units, recycling system, and tracking devices.
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Install barricades and signage for site safety.
3. Pilot Bore Drilling
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Use directional drilling rig to create a pilot bore along designed alignment.
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Employ guidance systems (walkover or wireline) for precise steering.
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Maintain bore path within tolerance: typically ±50 mm horizontally and vertically.
4. Reaming Process
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Reamers enlarge the pilot hole in stages (e.g., 250 mm → 400 mm → 600 mm).
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Drilling fluid (bentonite/polymer slurry) supports borehole stability and cuttings removal.
5. Pipe Assembly & Pullback
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Weld or fuse pipes into continuous string at the exit side.
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Pull pipe through reamed bore using swivel to prevent torque stress.
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Maintain constant tension and monitor pullback speed.
6. Completion & Restoration
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Conduct hydrostatic pressure testing for pipelines.
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Restore site to original condition (asphalt, landscaping, etc.).
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Submit as-built documentation and quality reports.
Equipment Used
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HDD Rig: Ranging 40–500 tons depending on pipe diameter and length.
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Mud Mixing & Recycling System: Ensures drilling fluid consistency.
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Reamers & Hole Openers: For staged enlargement.
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Tracking Systems: Walkover or gyro for alignment accuracy.
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Swivels & Pullback Equipment: Protects pipe from overstress.
Safety Considerations
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Follow Saudi Aramco Safety Standards and Civil Defense requirements.
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Ensure exclusion zones and proper barricading.
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Monitor drilling fluid pressure to prevent frac-out.
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Provide PPE: helmets, safety boots, gloves, reflective vests.
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Emergency response plan in place for utility strikes or fluid spills.
Environmental Considerations
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Use low-toxicity bentonite/polymer fluids.
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Contain and recycle drilling mud to avoid soil and water contamination.
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Prevent frac-outs near sensitive areas (rivers, wetlands).
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Comply with Saudi environmental regulations.
Quality Assurance & Control
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Pre-work inspection of equipment and pipe materials.
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Continuous monitoring of bore path with tracking reports.
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Testing: Hydrostatic testing, mandrel testing, or CCTV for conduits.
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Documentation: Daily progress reports, QA/QC checklists, as-built drawings.
Advantages of HDD in Saudi Arabia
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Minimal Traffic Disruption: Roads, highways, and railways remain open.
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Cost Savings: Less restoration work compared to open-cut excavation.
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Speed & Efficiency: Faster installation in urban and industrial projects.
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Sustainability: Reduces environmental impact.
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Durability: Pipelines are protected underground from external damages.
DTC’s HDD Experience in Saudi Arabia
DTC has successfully executed HDD projects across the Kingdom, including:
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Pipeline crossings in Dammam Industrial City.
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Telecom conduits for urban developments in Riyadh.
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Waterline installations beneath roadways in Jeddah and Al Khobar.
Our HDD solutions combine modern rigs, precise guidance systems, and trained teams to deliver projects safely, on time, and to international standards.
Conclusion
The Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) method statement in Saudi Arabia highlights a structured approach to trenchless utility installation. By integrating planning, advanced equipment, safety measures, and quality control, HDD has become a cornerstone technology in building the Kingdom’s modern infrastructure.
With DTC General Contracting, clients gain a partner that delivers HDD projects with efficiency, compliance, and sustainability—supporting both urban expansion and Vision 2030 mega-projects.
Call to Action
Looking for a reliable contractor for Horizontal Directional Drilling in Saudi Arabia?
Contact DTC General Contracting today.
📞 +966 566 41 1325
📧 info@dtc.sa
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