On 4 August, the HA-1X exploratory well on the Hanut prospect spudded, and on 17 August, it reached the target depth of 6,000 feet. At about 5,200 feet, the Basal Kafr El Sheikh sand was the primary target for HA-1X. However, the well discovered that the sand from Basal Kafr El Sheikh had been eroded at this site. At the Qawasim level, good grade sands were discovered while drilling to the desired depth, but they were not charged with gas.

Because Hanut was a unique subsurface structure in the South Disouq area, the company believes the HA-1X well’s results will have a limited impact on the remaining c.90-100bcf of South Disouq prospectivity.

Commenting on the development, the Chief Executive Officer of SDX, Mark Reid, said: “Whilst the result of this well is disappointing, I remain positive about the remaining prospectivity in the area which has not been materially impacted. In particular, I am encouraged by the proof of reservoir quality sands in the Qawasim Fm in the South Disouq area as this derisks further close by prospectivity. The Company will now be working towards moving these prospects to drill-ready status for a 2022 campaign and looks forward updating the market on its campaigns in West Gharib and in Morocco in the remainder of the year.”