Optimizing Well Placement in the Miqrat Formation Using Integrated Geosteering Techniques

Abstract

Accurate geosteering in tight, heterogeneous reservoirs remains a major challenge, particularly in deep, high-temperature, high-pressure (HTHP) settings. This study presents an integrated geosteering workflow applied to the Cambrian Miqrat Formation in Oman, combining real-time drilling data with geological interpretation to optimize well placement and reservoir exposure. Advanced geosteering software was utilized during the drilling of one of the longest and deepest horizontal wells drilled to date in the Miqrat Formation, based on available data, incorporating Model-Based, Strat-Based, Multi-Well, and Multi-Log interpretation techniques within a unified platform. Real-time gamma ray measurements from the bottom-hole assembly (BHA) were continuously correlated with offset wells. The Strat-Based approach, based on true vertical thickness (TVT) projection, enabled reliable stratigraphic positioning and apparent bed dip estimation, supporting informed trajectory adjustments in a thinly bedded, low-permeability reservoir. The integrated workflow demonstrated effectiveness in this case study in managing pronounced lithological and depositional heterogeneity, allowing the wellbore to be maintained within the reservoir sweet spot with high confidence. A horizontal section of approximately 2000 m measured depth was drilled with reported 99.2% in-zone accuracy (Table 1), resulting in improved drilling efficiency, reduced non-productive time, and lower operational costs. The results demonstrate the value of close collaboration between geoscience and drilling disciplines and highlight the importance of real-time data integration for successful reservoir navigation in complex high-temperature, high-pressure (HTHP) environments. The proposed workflow is designed to be cost-effective based on observed operational outcomes, adaptable, and readily transferable to other technically challenging, tight reservoirs, offering practical guidance to improve decision-making and reduce drilling risks in unconventional plays.