28 June 2016
Doha, Qatar -  Qatar Petroleum (QP) announced today that it has concluded the competitive process which it initiated in 2015, for the further development and operation of its Al-Shaheen offshore oil field, starting July 2017.

As part of today's announcement, QP said that the company that presented the best offer to meet QP requirements was Total.

The announcement was marked by the signature by QP and Total of the relevant agreements for the further development and operation of Al-Shaheen oil field, which was held under the patronage and in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah Bin Nasser Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of the State of Qatar.

The signed agreements included a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) to establish a new Qatari company to be known as "North Oil Company" that will develop and operate Al-Shaheen oil field. The new company will be 70% owned by QP and 30% by Total.

A Development and Fiscal Agreement (DFA) was also signed between QP and the two parties to the joint venture, in which QP licensed the rights for the development and operation of the field, and for the production, sale and export of crude oil from Al-Shaheen oil field for a period of 25 years starting in July 2017.

Mr. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, President & CEO of Qatar Petroleum said "QP's objective for the competitive process was to choose a partner that has world class technical capabilities that enable it to continue the development and operation of Al-Shaheen Field in partnership with QP, while at the same time ensuring the highest possible financial return to the State of Qatar."

Speaking at a press conference held on this occasion, Mr. Al-Kaabi added: "The strong and serious technical and financial offers we have received during an industry downturn is a true testament to Qatar's attractiveness reflected by its natural resources, safe investment climate, and for being such a great place to live in. This is another proof of Qatar's ability to ensure the future successes of its development strategy, including that of its strategic natural resources."

The President & CEO of Qatar Petroleum told reporters that the success of the competitive process is owed to the vision, guidance and strong support of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar. He said "this process has -from day one- enjoyed the gracious guidance of His Highness to seek innovative ways to develop our country's energy resources through successful international partnerships, to enhance the transfer of technology and knowledge, develop our young workforce in Qatar."

Mr. Al-Kaabi thanked Maersk Oil Qatar for their "significant efforts and valuable contribution in managing Al-Shaheen field during the past quarter of a century and for the offer they have presented."

He also thanked all the major oil companies that participated in the competitive process and encouraged them to participate in future opportunities in Qatar.

Al-Shaheen oil field is among the world's largest oil fields. It has been producing oil for 22 years, yet holds the potential to produce a few-fold of the oil it has produced so far. It currently produces around 40% of Qatar's crude oil, at around 300,000 barrels per day.

About QP
Qatar Petroleum (QP) is a state-owned public corporation established by Emiri Decree No. 10 in 1974. It is responsible for all phases of the oil and gas industry in the State of Qatar.

The principal activities of QP, its subsidiaries and joint ventures are the exploration, production, local and international sale of crude oil, natural gas and gas liquids, refined products, synthetic fuels, petrochemicals, fuel additives, fertilizers, liquefied natural gas (LNG), steel and aluminium.

The operations and activities of QP and its affiliates are conducted at various onshore locations, including Doha, Dukhan and the Mesaieed and Ras Laffan Industrial Cities, as well as offshore areas, including Halul Island, offshore production stations, drilling platforms and the North Field.

For more information, please visit www.qp.com.qa

© Press Release 2016