ADVANCEMENTS in geospatial technologies and applications were the focus of the ongoing three-day 11th GIS National Symposium in Dammam that will conclude today (April 13). The GIS Symposium is the largest regional conference of its kind, bringing together researchers, academics, specialists and students to discuss emerging trends in geomatics, geospatial analysis and practical applications of new technologies to increase productivity and improve efficiency. Fahad E. Al Helal, Vice President, Project Management at Saudi Aramco, discussed Saudi Aramco's use of innovative geospatial information services (GIS) to support various company core operations. He said: "Saudi Aramco is committed to supporting company business interests using GIS applications for land encroachments, land reservation, land records, and land advisory. This includes conducting site-selection analysis for company projects and pipeline." Al Helal noted that data capturing and processing through geomatics operations utilize the latest in global navigation satellite systems, laser scanning, and conventional equipment. These technologies provide precise and accurate geospatial information and mapping products for planning, engineering design, construction, exploration, facility maintenance, and management of Saudi Aramco's lands and assets. Al Helal encouraged participants to recognize the importance of committing to the Saudi geomatics sector in Saudi Arabia. "Saudi Aramco believes that with the right expertise, commitment and collaboration, we can further advance our national GIS infrastructure and our country as a whole by improving the business environment and developing the necessary capabilities to increase the quality and reliability of our services in Saudi Aramco which is one important aspect of Vision 2030." The annual forum was held under the patronage of Prince Saud Bin Nayef Bin Abdulaziz, governor of the Eastern Province, and organized by The Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University in Dammam. Saudi Aramco was the official sponsor of the symposium.
