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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.

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.

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