Kuwait Gulf Oil Company (KGOC), in collaboration with Saudi Arabian Chevron, has initiated a 3D geophysical data processing project aimed at boosting oil production in the Wafra Joint Operations area. The project utilizes advanced technologies and expertise from Viridian, a global leader in geophysical data solutions, to enhance reservoir identification and improve extraction efficiency.
Currently, the Wafra operations produce approximately 178,000 barrels of crude oil per day. The new initiative targets an increase to over 250,000 barrels per day within two years. By applying sophisticated 3D processing techniques, the project seeks to interpret complex subsurface geology more accurately and reduce data distortion, thereby facilitating precise mapping of oil reservoirs. This precision is expected to lower operational risks and improve drilling success rates, contributing to significant cost savings by minimizing reliance on traditional exploratory methods.
The joint venture aligns with both Kuwait’s and Saudi Arabia’s strategic goals of optimizing economic returns from their shared resources while maintaining adherence to international quality standards. Officials suggest the project will support sustainable production practices, advance operational efficiency, and strengthen energy security for both countries.
Additional progress within the Wafra Joint Operations was highlighted in a recent report from Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) covering 2025 activities. The report noted seismic data analyses and geological studies that contributed to production increases in several fields. Specifically, six wells in the Arq field's Burgan reservoir added 2,700 barrels per day, while six wells in the Wafra field’s Hartha reservoir generated an additional 2,400 barrels per day following well revitalization efforts.
Further development efforts included the initiation of a water-flooding phase involving polymer injection in the Eocene II reservoir, part of an enhanced oil recovery (EOR) strategy. This was supported by an upgrade of the associated water disposal infrastructure to enhance operational efficiency.
The report also detailed environmental advancements resulting from the partnership between KGOC and Saudi Arabian Chevron. Surplus gas from joint operations was redirected to Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) for optimal utilization instead of being flared. This initiative contributed to a significant reduction in gas flaring rates, decreasing from 61 percent in 2022 to 46 percent in 2025, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve environmental performance in the region’s oil production activities.