Egypt’s oil sector received a boost on Tuesday as the “Belayim offshore 133” well in the Sinai region commenced crude oil production at an initial rate of 1,500 barrels per day (bpd), the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources announced.
The well, located in the Belayim Marine field, is the first output from Eni’s new investment program in Egypt, aimed at enhancing domestic oil production and supporting energy security.
The well was drilled and brought online by Petrobel, a joint venture between Egypt’s General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC) and Italy’s Eni. Petrobel has historically been a key player in the Gulf of Suez, Sinai, and Delta regions, and this latest development represents the first tangible results of Eni’s renewed investment commitments in these strategic areas. Under the agreement signed with EGPC, Eni pledged to inject new capital and technology into exploration and production activities to boost output and optimize field performance.
Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Karim Badawi, monitored the launch of drilling operations for the “Belayim offshore 133” well late last year, highlighting the strategic importance of the project in Egypt’s broader energy agenda. “This well demonstrates the potential of our offshore Sinai fields and the value of international partnerships in developing our hydrocarbon resources,” he said.
The ministry stated that initial production indicators have been encouraging, with opportunities to further increase output through enhanced operational efficiency and field optimization. Early assessments of the Belayim Marine field suggest substantial untapped potential, which could support Egypt’s efforts to meet rising domestic energy demand while reducing reliance on imported crude.
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As part of the ongoing operational plan, the “Trident 16” drilling rig currently stationed in the Sinai area is being relocated to drill a new well, “Belayim offshore 131,” signaling a sustained push to expand production in the region. The deployment of advanced drilling technology and targeted investment is expected to enhance recovery rates, extend the life of the fields, and strengthen the country’s energy infrastructure.
The start of production from the “Belayim offshore 133” well aligns with Egypt’s strategic priorities to develop domestic crude oil supplies, reduce the import bill, and secure stable energy for local consumption. Analysts note that the Sinai region has long been recognized for its hydrocarbon potential, and renewed investment by international operators such as Eni is expected to unlock additional reserves.
Petrobel’s operations in Sinai are part of a broader initiative by the Egyptian government to attract foreign investment in the energy sector. By partnering with global companies, Egypt aims to leverage international expertise, advanced technology, and capital to boost exploration and production while enhancing operational efficiency in mature fields.
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The “Belayim offshore 133” project also demonstrates the effectiveness of Egypt’s regulatory framework in supporting foreign partnerships, ensuring operational transparency, and promoting long-term energy development. The successful launch of this well is expected to encourage further investment from international oil companies in the Gulf of Suez, Sinai, and Delta regions.
Eni’s commitment to Egypt comes at a critical time as the country works to balance rising domestic energy demand with sustainable development objectives. By expanding crude production, the company and its partners contribute to local supply stability, create employment opportunities, and enhance the country’s energy security profile.
The ministry emphasized that continued exploration and production initiatives in the Sinai region will remain a priority, with further drilling campaigns and investment programs scheduled for the coming months. If production from new wells is optimized, Egypt could significantly reduce its crude imports and strengthen its position as a regional energy hub.
The “Belayim offshore 133” well, producing 1,500 bpd initially, marks a promising start for Eni’s renewed investment program in Egypt, offering both immediate output and the potential for long-term production growth in one of the country’s most important oil-producing regions.
