Hydrocarbon Potential of the Underexplored Cretaceous Plays Offshore Moroccan Southern Atlantic

Summary The Dakhla Atlantique block, spanning ∼109,000 sq km offshore southern Morocco, remains an underexplored frontier for hydrocarbon exploration. This study evaluates the potential of Cretaceous plays using an extensive seismic dataset (∼13,000 km of 2D and ∼6,000 sq km of 3D seismic). The stratigraphic framework reveals two key phases of clastic input: Lower-Mid Cretaceous deepwater turbidites and a Campanian-Maastrichtian interbedded slope turbidite system. Geochemical analyses and Petroleum System Modelling indicate an active petroleum system, with thermally mature Albian-Turonian source rocks that are modelled as generating light oil (>30° API). The primary play types include Campanian slope turbidites and Maastrichtian structural traps. A prominent Campanian lead, identified within the 3D seismic volume, exhibits a distinct fan geometry with a pronounced amplitude anomaly in its updip portion. Maastrichtian leads include two 4-way dip closures, with one showing geophysical evidence of a nearby hydrocarbon seepage on the seabed. While seismic data limitations necessitate cautious interpretation, cumulative Play Risk mapping highlights Upper Cretaceous plays as promising targets. Ongoing exploration efforts continue to refine these leads, underscoring the Dakhla Atlantique block’s potential as a significant hydrocarbon province.