CAIRO — Egypt has announced a new natural gas discovery in the Western Desert, as part of ongoing efforts to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports.
The Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation, in partnership with Apache Corporation, confirmed that the newly drilled SKAL-1X exploration well is expected to produce around 26 million cubic feet of gas per day, alongside approximately 2,700 barrels of condensate.
The well is located in the South Kalabsha development area and is operated by Khalda Petroleum Company, a joint venture between EGPC and Apache. The discovery adds to a series of recent finds in the Western Desert, including the BED 15-35 well, which is projected to deliver between 10 and 15 million cubic feet of gas per day.
The latest discovery comes as Apache continues to expand its footprint in Egypt, with total investments exceeding $4 billion, particularly in the Western Desert region.
Officials say the find aligns with Egypt’s broader strategy to increase domestic energy output and meet rising demand. The government plans to drill more than 100 exploratory oil and gas wells in 2026 as part of a wider five-year programme targeting over 480 wells across producing regions.
The push also comes amid ongoing supply challenges. Egypt has been adjusting energy flows and securing additional LNG shipments following disruptions to Israeli gas imports linked to regional tensions. Rising global energy prices have added further pressure, prompting recent increases in domestic fuel and gas prices of between 14% and 30%.
Despite renewed exploration activity, a supply gap remains. Egypt currently produces around 4.1 billion cubic feet of gas per day, compared with domestic demand of approximately 6.2 billion cubic feet.
Authorities said expanded drilling and improved investment conditions—including plans to clear $1.3 billion in outstanding payments to international partners by mid-2026—are expected to support gradual production growth and strengthen long-term energy security.
