SNOC unveils 3D Seismic Survey to spot new reserves

SHARJAH National Oil Corporation (SNOC) has announced the launch of 3D Seismic Onshore Survey in the Emirate of Sharjah. Seismic surveys help in identifying potential deep reservoirs of oil and gas. The seismic survey will cover an area of approximately 500 square kilometers, located 40 kilometers southeast of Sharjah City from Al Soyouh in the north and Al Madam in the south, according to SNOC. Most of this area had not been covered by earlier 3D seismic surveys. The survey is expected to be completed by the end of December this year. Hatem Al Mosa, CEO of Sharjah National Oil Corporation, said this is the first exploration activity since SNOC was established by an Amiri decree. “SNOC is mandated to identify and quantify all possible underground structures that may contain oil or gas in the Emirate. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the federal and local government authorities both in Sharjah and Dubai for their exemplary cooperation with SNOC to facilitate all the activities associated with this survey,” Al Mosa said. Masoud Al Hamadi, Exploration and Production Manager of SNOC, said the 3D seismic survey uses latest technology and techniques to ensure high data quality. “The seismic survey consists of introducing vibrations on the surface. The reflection of these vibrations from various layers of rock beneath is picked up and measured by thousands of sensors laid across the desert. These sensors are connected with a network of cables tens of kilometers long, transmitting data to a data processing center. The data is then analyzed with the help of super computers, converting it into a geology map of the rock layers below and identifying the potential reservoirs,” he added. According to SNOC officials, undertaking such a survey involves dealing with a raft of challenges as the area includes massive infrastructure as well as populated areas, not to mention the wildlife protected areas. The survey has to be undertaken in close coordination with all parties involved to avoid accidental cutting of any survey cables or destruction of the sensors, they said. Oil was discovered in the Emirate of Sharjah in 1960s. Oil production in Sharjah began commercial quantities in early 1974. Production volume increased with the discovery of two fields in Al Sajaa area in 1980 and 1982. The oil wealth has played a significant role in the economic development of the Emirate. — SG