BP strikes gas again! El Fayoum-5 discovery set to boost Egypt’s energy future

BP has successfully wrapped up drilling at the El Fayoum-5 gas discovery well in the North Alexandria Offshore Concession. This marks the final well in the company’s four-slot drilling campaign in the West Nile Delta and signals continued investment in Egypt’s natural gas production.

The El Fayoum-5 well, drilled using the Valaris DS-12 rig, was spudded on 14 February 2025 and reached a measured depth of approximately 2,900 meters. The well encountered four prospective Messinian gas reservoirs with a total sand thickness of 50 meters. These results add to BP’s ongoing efforts to expand gas output in Egypt and reinforce its role as a leading energy player in the region.

How Will The El Fayoum-5 Discovery Be Integrated Into BP’s Infrastructure?

BP has outlined plans to integrate the El Fayoum-5 discovery into its existing West Nile Delta (WND) Gas Development infrastructure. This move is expected to streamline production and optimise output from the new well. The discovery follows BP’s successful drilling of the El King-2 well in the North King Mariout Offshore Concession, marking its second consecutive gas find in recent months.

With Raven Infills Phase 2 already contributing to production, BP has emphasised its strategy of fast-tracking recent discoveries, including El King and El Fayoum, for early integration into its infrastructure. The company’s approach aligns with its broader goal of expanding upstream operations and optimising its portfolio globally.

What Is The Significance Of The West Nile Delta Gas Development?

The WND Gas Development is a series of offshore gas condensate fields situated in Egypt’s North Alexandria and West Mediterranean Deepwater concessions. This project plays a key role in supporting Egypt’s domestic energy supply and enhancing its natural gas output.

The Raven field, which represents the final phase of the WND project, commenced production in early 2021. Its initial development included eight subsea wells located up to 65 kilometers offshore, at water depths ranging from 550 to 700 meters. BP, as the operator, holds an 82.75% stake in the project, while Harbour Energy owns the remaining 17.25%.

What Does This Mean For Egypt’s Natural Gas Production?

BP’s ongoing discoveries and infrastructure expansions underline Egypt’s position as a key player in the global energy market. With natural gas being a major component of Egypt’s energy strategy, new offshore finds such as El Fayoum-5 contribute to sustaining production levels and meeting domestic demand.

The country has been increasing its natural gas exports, with a focus on liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments to Europe and other international markets. The integration of new discoveries into BP’s existing facilities is expected to enhance efficiency, reduce development time, and maximise resource recovery.

What Is BP’s Long-Term Strategy In Egypt?

BP has maintained a strong presence in Egypt for several decades, with a focus on upstream oil and gas exploration and production. The company has consistently invested in new projects to enhance output and has been a major contributor to Egypt’s energy supply.

With the successful drilling of El Fayoum-5, BP continues to demonstrate its commitment to expanding its Egyptian operations. By leveraging existing infrastructure, the company aims to accelerate the commercialisation of new discoveries while supporting Egypt’s long-term energy security.

BP’s completion of drilling at the El Fayoum-5 gas well marks a significant step in strengthening Egypt’s natural gas sector. The well’s successful results, combined with BP’s strategic integration plan, highlight the company’s continued investment in Egypt’s offshore energy reserves. As the country positions itself as a key natural gas exporter, discoveries like El Fayoum-5 will play a crucial role in shaping its energy landscape in the years ahead.