Drilling results from the exploratory well Sirius‑1X, which is located in the North‑East Alameya block in the Mediterranean Sea and operated by Shell, show encouraging preliminary indications after reaching the target depth of 2,115 m. This improves the prospects for developing new gas resources in the Sirius exploration interval.
Following these results, an early development decision could be reached in 2027. The Sirius-1X discovery is currently planned to begin production by 2029. This will serve as a subsequent phase to the development of the Mina West field.
The well marks the first exploratory project executed by Shell in 2026. It is part of a broader Shell’s strategy to expand exploration and production (E&P) activities within its Mediterranean concession areas in Egypt. The drilling of Sirius and Mina West 2 wells come withing the framework of this strategy.
Earlier this year, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Karim Badawi inspected drilling operations in the area. The visit was part of ongoing efforts to increase domestic natural gas production. Badawi previously noted the importance of reviewing development work to ensure energy security
Shell and its partner, Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company (KUFPEC), collaborated with the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS) to optimize the strategy. By utilizing data collected from the Mina West 2 well in obtaining the geological and technical data needed for drilling the Sirius-1X site, the partners achieved significant cost savings. As a result, no additional data‑collection well was required.
Operations are currently continuing at the Mina West 2 well to prepare for the start of production. Officials expect this field to come online before the end of the current year.
In February, Shell Egypt announced the commencement of its 2026 Mediterranean drilling campaign following the arrival of the Stena IceMAX drillship. Operated by Stena Drilling, the vessel will execute a multi-well drilling program, starting with the Mina West development wells and the Sirius exploration prospect, followed by the Velox exploration well.
Shell operates with a 60% stake in the North East Amriya area in partnership with KUFPEC, holding 40%.
