The tender for the western Akkas field, which has 7 trillion cubic feet of gas, involves the upgrade of four horizontal-producing wells using one rig.

Bids are due by 30 September, with the contract expected to last between six and eight months.

The Akkas field has previously been tested by Shell as part of its role in preparing the gas masterplan (MEED 13:6:08).

Baghdad’s Oil Ministry is expected to select an oil major to further develop the Akkas field in the next few months, as part of a series of technical service agreements (MEED 10:6:08).

North Oil Company has also called for bids to drill seven directional wells at its East Baghdad oilfield, which is expected to take 16 months to complete. The field produces about 15,000 barrels-a-day of heavy crude, with bids due on 15 September.