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

Badawi announced the completion of drilling operations of Zohr-9 well via the Saipem 10000 drillship with full adherence to safety standards and the planned timetable.

This step builds on the achievements of the Zohr-6 well and aligns with the field’s development plan. It shows the potential for future expansion phases of Zohr natural gas field, said the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources. 

Eni resumed drilling activities in the Zohr field in early 2025 and began operations at the Zohr-13, Zohr-6, and Zohr-9 wells in February 2025.

Zohr field, the largest gas discovery ever made in Egypt and in the Mediterranean Sea, is located within the offshore Shorouk Block. The Block’s ownership is divided between Eni (50% stake), Rosneft (30%), bp (10%) and Mubadala Petroleum (10%).  The project is executed by operator Petrobel (joint venture between Eni and EGPC) on behalf of contractor Petroshrouk.

The Ministry has also revealed that drilling operations for the new exploratory gas well, Denise W-1X, began on October 28 in the Denise development area off the coast of Port Said in the Mediterranean Sea. Operated by Petrobel, the well is drilled by the Egyptian rig  El-QAHERII, owned by the Modern Drilling Company (MDC), at a water depth of 98 meters and targeting a total depth of over 4,200 meters.

Badawi emphasized that intensifying drilling and developing new wells in Eni’s concession areas reflects the company’s confidence in the investment climate in Egypt’s oil and gas sector. It also shows Eni’s serious commitment to injecting new investments and strengthening its partnership with Egypt.

Badawi explained that such steps represent a tangible outcome of the Ministry’s recent policies to stimulate investments and eliminate challenges for partners.