First Multilateral Well with Lower Completions in Both Lateral - Case Study of the Most Congested Field in Abu Dhabi

Abstract This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the TAML Level 2 multi-lateral well by the Field Operator, which features a permanent limited entry liner completion in both laterals to enhance the reservoir productivity. The well marks a significant technical achievement for the company by combining two wells from different reservoirs and injecting into both laterals using the same surface well construction. The primary objectives of the project were to drill and complete a dual lateral well with commingled injection at minimum risk and cost and to evaluate and report on its production performance. Notably, the project differed from other multi-laterals drilled by the Field Operator, as it featured lower completions in both laterals, while previously drilled multi-lateral had one of the laterals as barefoot. The project's economic feasibility was evaluated by analyzing the costs related to drilling two different wells versus drilling the wells from the same surface location using a whipstock and completing the well. The alignment between the asset, drilling and completions team, and all stakeholders was essential to ensure that the project's expected risks were accurately assessed. Additionally, a proper anti-collision analysis was crucial, given that the field where the well was planned to be drilled is highly congested, with over 2000 wells already drilled in the area. As a result, special precautions were taken to minimize the ellipse of uncertainty and reduce the risk of collision during drilling. As the first dual lateral with lower completions in both laterals, this project sets a new standard within the company by advancing drilling practices and perfecting hydrocarbon extraction in the realm of multi-lateral wells. The well's success sets a benchmark for the Field Operator to drill more multilateral wells and further advance into TAML Level 4 and Level 5. Overall, the document provides a detailed account of the project's objectives, challenges, and outcomes, highlighting the technical expertise and innovation of the Field Operator team.