Egypt Discovers New Gas Layer at Zohr-9 | Boosting Output by 70 MMCF/D

 Egypt Confirms New Gas-Bearing Layer at Zohr-9, Boosting Output by 70 MMCF/D

Egypt has successfully discovered a new gas-bearing layer at the Zohr-9 well in the Mediterranean Sea, with an estimated production of 70 million cubic feet per day (mmcf/d), according to Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources.

The drilling operation at Zohr-9 was carried out by the Saipem 10000 drillship, following strict safety standards and the planned schedule. This achievement builds on the success of Zohr-6 and supports the field’s development plan, opening opportunities for future expansion in the Zohr natural gas field.

Zohr Field Overview

The Zohr field is the largest gas discovery in Egypt and the Mediterranean Sea, located in the offshore Shorouk Block. Ownership is shared between Eni (50%), Rosneft (30%), BP (10%), and Mubadala Petroleum (10%).

The field is operated by Petrobel, a joint venture between Eni and EGPC, with Petroshrouk as the contractor. Eni resumed drilling in early 2025, working on Zohr-13, Zohr-6, and Zohr-9 wells since February.

New Drilling at Denise Development Area

In addition, the Ministry reported that drilling for the Denise W-1X exploratory well began on October 28, 2025, off the coast of Port Said in the Mediterranean Sea. The well is operated by Petrobel using the El-QAHERII rig, owned by the Modern Drilling Company (MDC), reaching a total depth of over 4,200 meters at a water depth of 98 meters.

Investment Confidence in Egypt’s Energy Sector

Minister Badawi highlighted that the intensified drilling and development of new wells in Eni’s concession areas demonstrates confidence in Egypt’s oil and gas investment climate. These steps reflect Eni’s commitment to new investments and its strong partnership with Egypt.

He also noted that these achievements are direct results of the Ministry’s policies aimed at stimulating investment, removing operational challenges, and supporting sustainable growth in Egypt’s energy sector.