MEOG: Tethys begins flow testing at Omani well

Sweden’s Tethys Oil has commenced flow testing at its Kunooz-1 exploration well in Block 58, located in the Sultanate of Oman. The testing, which began on November 27, is set to produce preliminary results within the next two weeks.

In a press release, the company reported that that it has started open hole testing of the Ara/Birba and Buah formations. This process involves nitrogen lifting to establish oil flows from the fractured dolomite limestone. The company’s drilling of Kunooz-1 began in August, targeting a total depth of around 3,900 metres.

The Kunooz-1 well is exploring the Masirah Bay formation, with primary targets being the Buah and Khufai carbonates, situated at depths of 3,500 metres and 3,800 metres respectively. The secondary target is the Ara/Birba carbonates, located around 3,100 metres deep. Oman’s Ministry of Energy and Minerals has extended the initial exploration phase for the Block 58 exploration and production agreement (EPSA) until July 2025.

This well marks Tethys’ first venture in Block 58, which is adjacent to Block 6 – home to the majority of Oman’s remaining oil reserves. Tethys noted that the Kunooz-1 prospect is one of several identified in Block 58, benefiting from its proximity to established play fairways and infrastructure.

According to Welligence Analytics, future developments in Block 58 are expected to be financed through Tethys’ ongoing sale of its 30% stake in the producing Blocks 3 & 4, operated by CC Energy and partners Mitsui & Co. Ltd. Tethys described Kunooz-1 as "the highest profile well in Oman this year," with a notable risk-reward profile. Despite a success chance of just over 20%, the structure could potentially hold over 100mn barrels of oil.

Magnus Nordin, Managing Director of Tethys Oil, highlighted the progress in Block 56, which is moving closer to commercialisation. The company plans to focus on developing the Al Jumd, Sarha and Menna discoveries within the block. The Al Jumd discovery alone has already produced more than 60,000 barrels of oil during extended testing in 2023.

In late 2022, Tethys engaged Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) to conduct a $14mn seismic survey in Block 56. This collaboration includes a 2,018-square km 3D seismic acquisition programme, extending the exploration campaign into 2023.

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