More Omani blocks assigned on and offshore

In conjunction with Tethys Oil Oman Ltd.’s Block 49 acquisition, Oman’s Ministry of Oil & Gas has signed agreements on two additional onshore blocks and one underexplored offshore block (OGJ Online, Nov. 13, 2017).

Eni SPA and Oman Oil Co. Exploration & Production (OOCEP) will explore Block 52, which covers 90,760 sq km offshore southern Oman in 10-3,000 m of water. The underexplored block extends from the Al Wusta region toward Dhofar, encompassing the Hallaniyat Islands.

OOCEP Chief Executive Officer Isam Al Zadjali said the joint venture plans to conduct a 3D seismic survey and drill one exploration well, according to the Times of Oman. Eni’s subsidiary Eni Oman BV will operate Block 52 with an 85% stake, while partner OOCEP will hold the remaining 15% interest. Eni has further agreed to assign 30% interest in Block 52 to Qatar Petroleum, pending required approvals from the Omani government.

Oman’s Ministry of Oil & Gas also awarded two additional onshore blocks. Occidental Oman and OOCEP will explore the 1,185-sq-km Block 30 and ARA Petroleum has been awarded the 8,528-sq-km Block 31.

Winners were awarded the four oil blocks following the 2016 bidding round (OGJ Online, Dec. 14, 2016).

Contact Tayvis Dunnahoe at [email protected].