At its operating Yakoot exploration well in Egypt's southern Gulf of Suez, in the North West El Amal Concession, Neptune Energy has begun drilling operations. It is Neptune's first operational well in Egypt.

 

The 365 square kilometre (141 square mile) North West El Amal offshore concession is situated around 105 kilometres (65 miles) north-west of Hurghada and 42 kilometres (26 miles) south-east of Ras Gharib.

 

With a final target depth of roughly 3,600 metres, the operation is being carried out with the ADM-8 rig, which is operated by ADES.

 

Neptune received the exploration permit for the North West El Amal Concession in February 2019 and advanced 3D seismic data in 2020.

 

Alexandra Thomas, managing director of Neptune Energy in Egypt, said "Drilling the Yakoot prospect is a significant milestone for Neptune in Egypt, and we are grateful for the support of the Egyptian Petroleum Ministry as well as the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation."