Block 18 Located in the Southern Sea of Oman
Oman’s Ministry of Energy and Minerals has announced the launch of a new package of oil and gas concession blocks, marking a strategic move to attract foreign investments. The announcement was made at the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) International Conference, hosted by Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre on Monday, September 30, 2024.
Speaking at the conference, Mohsin bin Hamad Al Hadhrami, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, highlighted the ministry’s adoption of a new approach to investment in Oman’s oil and gas sector. He emphasized that this initiative aligns with the ongoing efforts to boost foreign investments and foster stronger partnerships with OQ Exploration and Production, the national operator.
According to Al Hadhrami, the new approach is designed to optimize the development of Oman’s energy resources through efficient and innovative methods. The package includes several concession areas, both offshore and onshore, with Block 18 being one of the most prominent.
Block 18, located in the southern Sea of Oman, spans approximately 21,140 square kilometers, making it one of the largest offshore concession blocks in the country. The area is rich in untapped hydrocarbon resources, offering significant potential for exploration and development, both in conventional and unconventional oil and gas resources.
Al Hadhrami also stressed that this new strategy enhances investment opportunities while contributing to sustainable development in Oman’s energy sector, aligning with the Sultanate’s broader strategic objectives. Key measures introduced include a contractual system based on concession fees and provisions for integrated gas exploitation projects, which further enhance the attractiveness of these investment areas.
Oman’s new investment framework reflects its commitment to advancing the energy sector, creating a conducive environment for international investors, and maximizing the potential of its natural resources.