ADNOC confirms FID for SARB deep gas development in Ghasha concession

(WO) - ADNOC has taken the final investment decision for the SARB Deep Gas Development, moving ahead with a new offshore platform and an appraisal program designed to lift Abu Dhabi gas supply later this decade. The project sits within the Ghasha Concession offshore of Abu Dhabi, where activity is focused on ultra-deep, high-pressure Herrera-equivalent reservoirs requiring specialized drilling and completion techniques.

The company said the development targets 200 MMscfd of production from four wells located about 120 km from the coast, with gas routed to Das and Das Island facilities for treatment and integration with ADNOC Gas operations on Das Island. The approach relies on spare capacity in existing offshore pipelines to avoid building stand-alone processing equipment at the platform and to manage costs across a mature infrastructure network.

Musabbeh Al Kaabi, ADNOC Upstream CEO, described the decision as part of a broader offshore strategy. Musabbeh Al Kaabi said: “We are pleased to confirm the final investment decision for the SARB Deep Gas Development. This strategic project within the Ghasha Concession reinforces the progress we are making to fully unlock Abu Dhabi’s world-class gas resources, supporting UAE gas self-sufficiency and strengthening the nation’s role as a reliable exporter to international markets.”

Deep gas in the concession is found at depths greater than 4,500 m in high-temperature, high-pressure rock formations that demand erosion-resistant bits, intelligent completions and tight pressure management during drilling. ADNOC said the platform will be operated remotely from Arzanah Island, reflecting industry movement toward digitalized offshore control rooms and longer tie-back wells as primary levers for reducing well time and unplanned events.

The Ghasha Concession remains the center of Abu Dhabi’s integrated gas agenda, with official estimates targeting 1.8 Bscfd of overall output to 2050 from the Hail and Ghasha fields. With a more secure permitting position after the SARB FID, ADNOC will have a freer hand to advance additional licensing and exploration on the block, though Kemp-style conflicts between fishery concerns and petroleum access may still shape the opening of new offshore areas.