Loss Per Share - Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share for Noble-UK (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Basic
Net loss from continuing operations	$ (1,062,677)	$ (67,068)
Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	0	(3,821)
Net loss attributable to Noble Corporation plc	(1,062,677)	(70,889)
Diluted
Net loss from continuing operations	(1,062,677)	(67,068)
Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	0	(3,821)
Net loss attributable to Noble Corporation plc	$ (1,062,677)	$ (70,889)
Denominator:
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic (shares)	250,047	248,251
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted (shares)	250,047	248,251
Basic:
Loss from continuing operations (usd per share)	$ (4.25)	$ (0.27)
Loss from discontinued operations (usd per share)	0	(0.02)
Net loss attributable to shareholders (usd per share)	(4.25)	(0.29)
Diluted:
Loss from continuing operations (usd per share)	(4.25)	(0.27)
Loss from discontinued operations (usd per share)	0	(0.02)
Net loss attributable to shareholders (usd per share)	$ (4.25)	$ (0.29)