EXHIBIT 23a

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on Form S-8 of our reports dated February 27, 2009, relating to the consolidated financial statements of Rowan Companies, Inc., and the effectiveness of Rowan Companies, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting, incorporated by reference in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Rowan Companies, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2008.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
 

Houston, Texas 

May 4, 2009