North Africa Drilling Activity (October Figures)

• Saudi Arabia had an all-time record of 88 rigs active in October, 11 more than two months earlier. Drilling activity has been boosted by the ongoing 2.5bn cfd development of the offshore Hasbah and ‘Arabiyah gas fields.

• Egyptian drilling activity continues to slide as independent producers cut back in response to payment delays (MEES, 12 October). (CONTINUED - 88 WORDS)