The oil and gas industry is an expensive and important industry globally, because, despite the quest for sustainability, fossil fuels will remain the major energy provider for the next 20 years. The industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, particularly in drilling operations. Real-Time Operations Monitoring (RTOM) has emerged as a disruptive force, as part of the well digitalisation efforts, leveraging IoT-enabled sensors, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence to enhance decision-making, operational efficiency, and safety. This paper critically examines the impact of RTOM in drilling, focusing on its role in predictive maintenance, risk mitigation, cost reduction, and sustainability. This paper integrates literature reviews and conceptual commentary based on author’s industry experience implementing RTOM projects. Through real-time data acquisition and advanced analytics, RTOM optimises drilling performance, minimizes downtime, and improves regulatory compliance. However, the adoption of RTOM presents challenges, including cybersecurity risks, high implementation costs, and integration complexities with legacy systems. Despite these challenges, the future of RTOM is promising, with advancements in AI, edge computing, and blockchain expected to further revolutionize drilling operations. This study underscores the necessity for industry-wide adoption of RTOM to drive efficiency, safety, and long-term profitability in the oil and gas sector.