Harnessing Egypt’s energy potential by advancing regional goals in the Mediterranean

In an exclusive interview with EGYPES News, Wail Shaheen, Vice President bp Egypt highlights how bp’s operations in Egypt—powered by advanced technology, strategic partnerships, and robust infrastructure—support the country’s transformation into a regional energy hub while driving resource monetisation and expanding access to both regional and global markets.

1. How does bp’s work in Egypt influence its broader regional goals across the Mediterranean?

We believe Egypt’s energy capabilities extend far beyond its national borders. With over 60 years of successful operations and in partnership with the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, bp is actively contributing to Egypt’s energy development by addressing immediate energy needs while supporting the country’s long-term vision of becoming a regional energy hub.

Egypt’s strategic location, extensive infrastructure, and export facilities create a robust platform to monetise resources both within Egypt and the region. The country’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regional collaboration offer investment opportunities, particularly in the Mediterranean, where abundant gas reserves are available. These efforts also enhance access to both regional and international markets.

bp plays a vital role in advancing this vision, leveraging state-of-the-art technology such as ocean bottom node technology, deep knowledge of the Mediterranean basin, established in-country facilities, and strong regional presence and partnerships. A recent example of this is our new joint venture with ADNOC, Arcius. This JV is established to maximise Egypt’s gas resources while capitalising on regional growth opportunities, reflecting our commitment to fostering Egypt’s potential as a regional energy hub. 

bp’s steadfast support and ongoing commitment to Egypt’s energy sector underscore our confidence in the country’s energy potential.

2. In partnership with the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, what is bp doing to increase production within Egypt helping to ensure pragmatic, secure and sustainable energy development for its people and industries?

In partnership with the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, bp has been contributing to Egypt’s energy development for over 60 years. We are addressing immediate energy needs while advancing the country’s long-term goal of becoming a regional energy hub.

Currently, we are accelerating the Raven infill wells project, which aims to add 200 mmscfd of gas by Q1 2025. This project involves drilling additional wells in the Raven field, including a two-well tie-back in the West Nile Delta block and laying around six kilometers of flexible pipes and subsea structures. The additional production will help meet Egypt's gas needs.

We are also moving forward with exploration activities in Al-King and Fayoum 5, with both programs set to begin in due course. Our work in the Mediterranean, including exploration in North King Mariout and Northwest Abu Qir, reflects bp’s ongoing commitment to Egypt’s energy sector.

It’s also important to highlight bp’s role in applying cutting-edge technologies, such as Ocean Bottom Node (OBN) seismic technology, which is crucial for improving exploration efficiency and minimising environmental impact. These advancements not only boost production but also uphold the highest safety and environmental standards.

Beyond securing Egypt’s energy supply, bp is investing in developing the next generation of Egyptian energy leaders. In 2019, we launched a "Middle Management" program to fast-track promising leaders in the energy sector. The program includes job shadowing, leadership training in bp’s UK offices, and academic opportunities at Manchester University. Additionally, bp supported the second phase of the Ministry’s Executive Development Program in collaboration with the American Chamber of Commerce in Egypt in 2021.

These efforts underscore bp’s strategic role in driving Egypt’s energy progress and advancing its vision for a sustainable, secure, and prosperous energy future.