Revolutionizing Drilling Performance: Record-Breaking Directional Runs in the Upper Jurassic Formation of Kuwait Oil Company

Abstract Drilling in the Umm Gudair field poses considerable challenges for the Kuwait Oil Company in terms of selecting well locations, designing trajectories, and placing horizontal wells. Key factors affecting these processes include studies of the stress field and the detection of geological barriers. Many wells in the UG field impose limitations on dogleg severity and casing design. Furthermore, the presence of upper lost circulation zones in the Shuaiba formation and unstable caving shales in the Ratawi section complicates initial kick-off operations and requires tailored mud management strategies. The Drilling Services team has accomplished a remarkable milestone for KOC in the UG field by successfully establishing the longest 6.5-inch directional run in the Marrat formation in Kuwait. This achievement underscores the team's steadfast dedication to operational excellence and significantly boosts the efficiency and productivity of drilling operations in the area. The drilling campaign involved a high-angle profile that began from a vertical kickoff point and achieved a total depth (TD) with an impressive inclination of 84 degrees, demonstrating advanced engineering capabilities and operational expertise. The main objective of this project was to enhance drilling performance with a strong emphasis on safety and reliability. By utilizing cutting-edge technologies and advanced drilling methods, the drilling service team exceeded its prior record for the longest 6.5-inch directional run. This achievement represents a significant advancement in operational capabilities in the UG field and highlights the company's ability to transform drilling performance in difficult geological conditions. Throughout the drilling operation, the drilling service team effectively upheld a targeted dogleg severity (DLS) of 8 degrees per 100 feet, which was crucial for maintaining wellbore integrity and minimizing tortuosity. Through the careful management of drilling parameters and the deployment of advanced drilling systems, the team skillfully maneuvered through the challenging geological conditions of the Marrat formation. As a result, they successfully achieved the target depth while reducing non-productive time and enhancing well control. This successful drilling campaign in the UG field solidifies the drilling service team's status as a leader in the oil and gas industry, highlighting their dedication to providing exceptional drilling services. The impressive results of this project set a new standard for KOC operations and position them as the preferred partner for future drilling projects in the region. The achievements of the Drilling Services team in the Umm Gudair field showcase a blend of advanced technology, skilled professionals, and a dedication to operational excellence. This project marks a notable milestone in partnership with KOC and lays the groundwork for future drilling endeavors, boosting Kuwait's oil production capabilities. Through this success, the drilling service team has demonstrated its capacity to deliver reliable, high-performance drilling solutions that exceed client expectations in a competitive landscape.