Abstract: Inferred Crustal Structure in Kuwait Based on Gravity Anomalies and Seismic Lines

Firyal Bou-Rabee

An analysis of available gravity measurements and a grid of seismic lines covering Kuwait with several of these lines are tied to well data as undertaken

to help understand the geologic and tectonic setting of Kuwait and the Arabian Gulf area.

A series of structural and isopach maps are constructed to model the tectonic history of Kuwait. Results show that the geological history of Kuwait is one of the general subsidence, interrupted on a number of occasions by periods of uplift. A major unconformity in the Mid-Cretaceous is observed above the Burgan High--a structural feature of great importance for potential hydrocarbon accumulation. Thinning of sediments, as seen on the isopach maps, suggests that the development of structural high began as early as the Jurassic.

Several possible gravity models of the area were constructed; the interpretation proposed here is that uplift and/or salt tectonism of the Infracambrian Hormuz salt was the mechanism driving development of these highs.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90986©1994 AAPG Annual Convention, Denver, Colorado, June 12-15, 1994