--> Abstract: Sequence Stratigraphic Framework Of Shu'aiba Formation, Shaybah Field, Saudi Arabia: A Basis For Reservoir Development Of An Aptian Carbonate Ramp Complex, by G. Aktas, G. W. Hughes, A-J. Abubshait, and S. Al-Garni; #90928 (1999).

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AKTAS, GURHAN, G. WYN HUGHES, ABDUL-JALEEL ABUBSHAIT, and SAAD AL-GARNI
Saudi Aramco

Abstract: Sequence Stratigraphic Framework of Shu'aiba Formation, Shaybah Field, Saudi Arabia: A Basis for Reservoir Development of an Aptian Carbonate Ramp Complex

The Shu'aiba Formation forms the most prolific reservoir in the Eastern Arabian peninsula. Although previous studies advocated laterally stacked carbonate wedges, this study proposes a sequence stratigraphic framework for the Shu'aiba Formation with "layer-cake" style of cycle stacking patterns resulted from deposition on a carbonate ramp along the irregular margins of an intrashelf basin.

Recent 3D geophysical work in the Shaybah area indicated that at least some of the apparent onlap features within Shu'aiba and Nahr Umr level are only multiples of younger reflectors. This revelation, coupled with new sequence stratigraphic correlation and new biostratigraphic data, indicate the presence of both Upper and Lower Aptian sediments within the shelfal Shu'aiba facies as opposed to only a Lower Aptian age, as previously assumed.

The Shu'aiba Formation is divided into two composite sequences, the Upper Shu'aiba Sequence (A) and Lower Shu'aiba Sequence (B). The Shu'aiba composite sequences (3rd order) comprise eight high frequency sequences (4th order) encompassing sixteen recognizable cycles (5th order). Individual cycles are typically composed of inner ramp, ramp crest (represented by rudistid barrier banks) and outer ramp facies, developed along the gentle carbonate slopes. Inner ramp facies show significant variations depending on the trend of the 3rd order sea level curve.

Sequence stratigraphic organization of the Shu'aiba reservoirs provide crucial clues in prediction and correlation of reservoir geobodies, especially of high permeability rudist shoals/banks.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90928©1999 AAPG Annual Convention, San Antonio, Texas