Process Optimization Strategies for Unconventional Gas Production in Saudi Arabia

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@article{1718375,
      author = {Mahesh Vilas Satpute},
      title = {Process Optimization Strategies for Unconventional Gas Production in Saudi Arabia},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2026},
      volume = {9},
      number = {11},
      pages = {5172-5183},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1718375.pdf},
      abstract = {Since Saudi Arabia initiated unconventional gas exploration program, emphasis moved from reservoir characterization to execution where optimization would play a key role. To identify the optimization levers in tight and shale gas development operations within Saudi Arabia in particular in Jafurah Basin region, this paper reviews the relevant literature in academic sources covering years from 2020 to 2025. The evidence-based approach will be used in which research papers regarding reservoir characterization, fracture stimulation design, production analysis, economic viability, and sustainable development will be considered as means of conducting an analysis of the following five optimization aspects: high-resolution characterization, landing and spacing optimization, completion and hydraulic fracturing optimization, production forecasting, and water, methane, and cost management. Literature indicates that there is no unique way to maximize the project's value. Nonetheless, the relationship between petrophysical analysis, anisotropic fractures' stimulation design, well completion design, forecasting through machine learning, and economic assessment proves to be effective. From the perspective of Saudi Arabia, the main take away message about optimization is that the processes of optimization must evolve beyond individual wells and become the operational system within the field level. Optimization strategy is proposed for Saudi Arabia in terms of unconventional gas development by using an integrated approach covering appraisal, pilot, execution, ramp-up, and optimization phases. Therefore, the future efforts on optimization of gas projects in Saudi Arabia must concentrate on subsurface, completions, production, and environmental workflows rather than optimization itself.},
      keywords = {Saudi Arabia, Unconventional Gas, Jafurah Basin, Process Optimization, Hydraulic Fracturing, Production Forecasting, Review Paper},
      month = {May},
      doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I11-1718375}
  }