This project involves exploration of Block 57 , also know as Al Afif onshore oil block, in the southwestern part of Oman and is situated between South Oman Salt Basin and the Rub al Khali Basin. The block is spread across 2,262 sq km. Client has signed an exploration and production-sharing agreement with the Lebanese-based firm Petroleb for developing the Block 57. As per the agreement, Petroleb has committed to carrying out geological and geophysical studies along with 3D seismic acquisition and drill wells during exploration periods. He said, “The contract has a number of phases and under the first phase, only exploration activities would be conducted. Oil exploration is a capital-intensive business, so there is a sizeable investment involved and we will do it. The money would be primarily spent on seismic activities and drilling one very deep well.” On future prospects of the block 57, Khayat said, “We looked at a number of blocks, not just one block. And we believe that we could add value to this particular block. We submitted our technical programme and our bid, and we were awarded this block.” On investments, he declined to reveal details but said it would require millions of dollars to conduct studies and drill wells. The agreement will reportedly be implemented in two stages, with the first stage expected to span three years and require an investment of at least $20m (OMR52m). The second stage, meanwhile, will require an estimated investment ranging from $20m (OMR52m) to $40m (OMR103.9m), and will also span three years. PetroLeb will commence activities at block 57 in the coming four months.