Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have moved a step closer to finally developing the Dorra offshore gas field in the Partitioned Neutral Zone (PNZ). Despite both states suffering from gas shortages, previous discussions over development have never got off the ground, as the two neighbors have preferred different approaches. That Iran claims that the field extends into its waters – where it is known as Arash – further complicates the issue.

Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman and his Kuwaiti counterpart Mohammed al-Fares signed a “minutes of meeting” document on 21 March, with the parties estimating that the field could potentially produce 1bn cfd of dry gas and 84,000 b/d of condensate. Output will be shared equally between the two states. The signing took place during Prince Abdulaziz’ recent visit to Kuwait, but no timeline for development was provided. (CONTINUED - 859 WORDS)