Integrated geophysical assessment of Miocene Belayim reservoirs in the Tawila West Oil Field, offshore southern Gulf of Suez, Egypt

This study evaluates the Miocene Belayim reservoirs in the Tawila West Oil Field (TWOF), located offshore in the southern Gulf of Suez Basin, Egypt. By integrating seismic interpretation with petrophysical data from four wells (TW-1, TW-2, TW-5 ST3-A, and TW-6), the research characterizes reservoir properties and evaluates hydrocarbon potential. Seismic data reveal that NW-SE trending fault systems, forming graben structures within the Belayim Formation, significantly influence the distribution and thickness of the reservoirs. Depth-structure maps for key horizons, Belayim #1 and Belayim #4, highlight notable vertical displacements and structural heterogeneity. These faults align with the Early Miocene tectonic activity associated with the Red Sea-Gulf of Suez rift system and play a critical role in shaping reservoir intervals. Petrophysical analysis indicates that Belayim #1 exhibits superior reservoir quality, with low shale volume (∼10 %), low water saturation (∼20 %), high hydrocarbon saturation (∼80 %), and effective porosity ranging from 15 % to 18 %. In contrast, Belayim #4 displays higher shale volume, lower effective porosity (8 %–12 %), and variable hydrocarbon saturation (40 %–55 %). Belayim #1 emerges as the primary target for hydrocarbon extraction, while Belayim #4 requires careful evaluation due to its structural and petrophysical characteristics. This study underscores the value of integrating seismic and petrophysical data to enhance reservoir characterization and optimize hydrocarbon recovery in TWOF.