The state-owned oil firm of the UAE, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) introduced the first ‘On the go’ station early this year at Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi. Since then the company has set-up several similar facilities across the Emirates, especially in underserved areas.
The Abu Dhabi-based company has more than 400 petrol stations across the UAE and has 17 stations in Dubai but it is projected to raise the number to reach between 25-30 stations by the end of 2020.
Smart construction
The ADNOC’s ‘On the go’ stations can be built in less than four months when compared to the conventional distribution stations which will take up to nine months. This accelerated mode of construction is possible because of its creative and modular design.
The small stations of ADNOC only require land less than 1000 sqm, also the facilities are easy to install as well as to relocate in both urban and remote areas.
“They are also easily adaptable to suit community requirements, whether in type of fuel offered or the convenience store experience. The smaller land plots and construction methods also have a smaller environmental impact of construction, while the finished stations require around 50 percent less power to run.”
Customers’ experience
The customers of UAE have expressed positive reviews about their experience on the ADNOC “On the go” stations since the past few months of its launch.
A customer named Mohammed Qadas defines the new station format as ‘practical’. The reason why he prefers the ‘On the go’ over traditional stations is because of its smaller size, easy access and quick service as well as their convenient locations.
Another customer, Abdullah is fond of the ADNOC Oasis shopping experience at the stations which enables to make orders using a tablet and receive them in the comfort of his car seat.
Safer service
The ADNOC ‘On the go’ stations employ cutting edge digital technologies to make sure of the wellbeing of consumers, Al Ahbabi explains.
“Providing a convenient and safe service has always been our highest priority, particularly now, as consumers are much more aware of how they choose to interact. ‘Adnoc On the go’ stations cater to this demand, by offering a seamless retail experience. This is not only due to their strategic locations but also through the digital options on offer,” states Al Ahbabi.
At the ADNOC Oasis stores, the customers make orders from the comfort and safety of their vehicles, using a tablet. To ensure a contactless payment, they can avail of the services of the ADNOC Distribution app and collect their items from the drive-thru.
Expansion plans
The oil company of Abu Dhabi is working to initiate more ‘On the go’ stations in 2020, to expand the fuel and convenience retailer network in the UAE as well as to upgrade all of the existing ADNOC Oasis stores by the end of 2021, to ensure they meet the needs of its customers.
“As the only fuel retailer to service all seven emirates, our plan to roll out ‘ADNOC On the go’ neighborhood stations is firmly on track, despite the challenges of recent months,” says Al Ahbabi. “It is vital that all businesses and individuals have convenient access to fuel and necessities, as the UAE economy and society continues to rebound from COVID-19.”
The ADNOC Distribution stations have been established to fulfill the current consumer requirements in terms of the location, contactless payment or easy ordering procedures at the convenience store.
“ADNOC ‘On the go’ stations are fast to construct, take up less space and offer fast fuel and retail convenience on or off the beaten track,” Al Ahbabi adds.