Egypt plans surge in offshore drilling activity in 2026
Petroleum minister says record number of offshore wells will be drilled as gas exploration intensifies in Mediterranean
CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) — Egypt’s petroleum sector is preparing for a significant expansion in offshore drilling, with 2026 set to record the highest number of offshore wells drilled in recent years, officials said.
Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Karim Badawi said the upcoming drilling surge reflects growing momentum in offshore gas exploration, particularly in the Mediterranean, and stressed the need for early operational readiness to fully capitalize on new opportunities.
Speaking during the general assembly meeting of Petroleum Marine Services (PMS) to approve its 2025 financial results, Badawi described the company as a strategic national asset specializing in offshore construction and marine services, supported by advanced technical capabilities and a highly skilled workforce.
He praised PMS for its strong performance over the past year, noting its ability to deliver complex offshore projects efficiently, in line with international technical standards and agreed timelines.
Badawi said the current phase presents promising prospects for PMS, urging the company to leverage its modern marine fleet and accumulated expertise to form strategic partnerships with exploration and research firms.
Such cooperation, he added, would ensure PMS is ready to move swiftly into development and production activities once ongoing exploration phases are completed, strengthening Egypt’s offshore energy ambitions.