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Egypt: assessment of unconventional oil resources

This dossier follows studies and proposed trials of Egypt’s unconventional oil resources, distinguishing geological potential, economic feasibility and actual production.

Last updated : 1 key moments
Egyptian flag, August 2003. Archive image; it shows neither drilling nor the 2026 meeting.
Egyptian flag, August 2003. Archive image; it shows neither drilling nor the 2026 meeting. — Alessio Nastro Siniscalchi / Wikimedia Commons — CC BY-SA 2.5 IT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5/it/ — 5 août 2003, sans modification.

Where things stand

On 30 October 2026, the ministry announced a review of NESR studies of the Western Desert and preparations for assessment through pilot wells. No new commercial output is established.

Reported information

Egypt considers pilot wells to assess unconventional oil

Egypt’s Petroleum Ministry announced on 30 October 2026 that it had reviewed NESR studies of unconventional resources in the Western Desert. The proposed next phase includes pilot wells to assess technical and economic feasibility.

Egyptian flag, August 2003. Archive image; it shows neither drilling nor the 2026 meeting.
Egyptian flag, August 2003. Archive image; it shows neither drilling nor the 2026 meeting. — Alessio Nastro Siniscalchi / Wikimedia Commons — CC BY-SA 2.5 IT https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5/it/ — 5 août 2003, sans modification.

According to the statement, the studies concern selected concessions where oil is trapped in low-permeability rock. Specialised techniques, including hydraulic fracturing, may be required; the stated potential remains subject to field testing.

Minister Karim Badawi and NESR chief Sherif Foda planned coordination with the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation and the relevant operators. The announcement provides no estimate of commercially recoverable reserves or secured additional production.

Sources 3