Agile Development of Upper Shuaiba Field in North Oman: From Opportunity to First Oil in Under Two Years

Abstract The Upper Shuaiba formation, located in the North of the Sultanate of Oman, consists of complex clinoform structures characterized by their depositional patterns and lateral facies variations. Despite numerous penetrations from lower hydrocarbon-bearing zones, its commercial discovery occurred in the early 2000s. Subsequently, multiple Field Development Plans (FDPs) were formulated to support the development of the Upper Shuaiba fields. Recognizing the potential for standardized and accelerated maturation, a comprehensive Standard FDP was constructed, facilitating efficient development through predefined guidelines. The Phase-A development of the best and thickest rudist clinoform in 2019, using horizontal waterflood linedrive, laid the groundwork for subsequent phases. Phase-B, initiated in December 2022, aimed to achieve Final Investment Decision (FID) by November 2023. The maturation of Phase-B focused on determining the number of wells to be drilled, with all other decisions being predefined or governed by standard FDP rules. Several subsurface risks were identified, including facies distribution, reservoir geometry and thickness, and seismic resolution. The "appraise as you go" philosophy ensured each development phase was contingent on appraisal results, providing flexibility in decision-making. The standard FDP prescribed rule-based well spacing and orientation, considering factors such as rock type, average permeability, net thickness, and stress regime. The operating strategy emphasized maintaining an instantaneous and cumulative voidage replacement ratio of 1.0, with injection operated under matrix conditions to prevent hydraulic fractures. Standardization extended to well types and completion designs, with the Basis for Design describing a phased evacuation scheme centered around a Remote Manifold Station (RMS) and satellite stations. Rule-based production forecasting, integrating Phase-A results and analogue well data, guided development planning and ensured economic viability. Non-technical aspects, including agile working methodologies, a scaled Opportunity Realization process, and a commitment to continuous learning, were critical to the project's success. Synergies with nearby fields further optimized resource utilization and accelerated development. This paper highlights the streamlined decision-making process and key enablers for the agile development of the Upper Shuaiba field, demonstrating how standardization and innovation contributed to the timely achievement of FID and first oil production.