Completion Selection Workflow in North Kuwait Jurassic Gas Wells

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Authors: Nasser Hadi Al-Azmi, Y. M. Alotaibi, A. Gamza, Babak Ghaempanah, Fahad AlBaidan, M. Al Nesefi, H. Alsamhan
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Abstract

Abstract Optimizing completion and stimulation design is critical for enhancing connectivity to the reservoir and maximizing production in North Kuwait Jurassic Gas wells. This abstract presents a structured workflow developed to guide completion selection between 4-1/2″ Cemented Monobore and Multi-Stage Completion designs, while also considering other viable completion alternatives. The workflow is designed to address subsurface uncertainty and utilizes scenario-based planning to support robust, data-driven decision-making. The methodology is applied during the planning and execution phases of North Kuwait Jurassic Gas field development and comprises the following key components: Reservoir Target Definition – Identification of the primary reservoir unit intended for production.Reservoir Quality Evaluation – Assessment of key characteristics such as natural fracturing versus matrix-dominated flow regimes.Stimulation Strategy Selection – Determination of optimal stimulation techniques based on reservoir properties.Completion Design Specification – Selection of completion type, metallurgy, pressure rating, and seal bore assembly length.Mechanical Feasibility Analysis – Execution of torque and drag simulations and tool string fit analysis to confirm operational feasibility.Production Forecast Validation – Assurance that the selected design meets inflow and outflow requirements throughout the well's lifecycle.Surface System Compatibility – Verification that the wellhead and Xmas tree accommodate required functionality, such as downhole gauges and subsurface safety valves.Future Operational Flexibility – Integration of design features to accommodate future velocity strings, artificial lift, sidetracking, and well abandonment.Intervention Capability Assessment – Evaluation of completion design for compatibility with expected well intervention operations. The results of applying this workflow have been compared relative to each other to enhance understanding of the risks, trade-offs, and potential regrets associated with early versus delayed development strategies. By quantifying the technical and economic implications of key decisions, the Gas Field Development Group has been able to develop a resilient and optimised development plan. The approach also helps identify which data inputs and design choices deliver the highest value throughout the project lifecycle. A probabilistic approach is embedded in the workflow to assess the impact of subsurface uncertainties, including variations in reservoir pressure, temperature, and fluid composition. This enables the development of contingency plans and ensures that the selected completion design remains resilient across varying operational conditions. The structured workflow serves as a template for future field developments, enabling knowledge transfer across teams and standardising best practices. This ensures consistency in decision-making and accelerates the learning curve for new projects.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Drilling and Well Engineering Hydraulic Fracturing and Reservoir Analysis Offshore Engineering and Technologies

Publication details

Journal / source
SPE Kuwait Oil & Gas Show and Conference (KOGS)
Publication date
3 February 2026