- Planned five-well programme seeks integrated lump-sum turnkey delivery in 2027

Gulfsands, together with Dijla Petroleum Company, is inviting expressions of interest from drilling contractors for a planned five well campaign in Block 26, northeast Syria. The proposed programme will be tendered on an integrated lump-sum turnkey basis, with drilling targeted to begin in the second quarter of 2027, subject to the necessary approvals, contract award and operational readiness.
The campaign forms part of plans to redevelop Block 26 and increase production from the asset. Gulfsands holds a 50% working interest in the Block 26 Production Sharing Contract. Dijla is the joint operating company responsible for production operations in the block, including the Khurbet East, Yousefieh, and Alkhairat fields.
The forthcoming procurement process will seek contractors able to coordinate the rig, specialist services and logistics needed to deliver the programme. International, regional and local contractors with relevant experience are encouraged to register their interest. Delivery through suitably qualified partners will be considered in accordance with the formal tender requirements.
John Bell, Managing Director of Gulfsands, said:
'Our planned five-well drilling campaign marks an important step in the redevelopment of Block 26 and reflects our confidence in its potential. We are committed to further investment in Syria and see this programme as a springboard for our long-term growth in the country, supporting the recovery of its energy sector and creating lasting value for our shareholders and the communities in which we operate.'
Representatives of Gulfsands and Dijla plan to meet interested contractors at ADIPEC in Abu Dhabi, 2–5 November 2026. Meeting requests and expressions of interest can be sent to gulfsands.drilling@gulfsands.com. Information for interested contractors Please send a brief company profile and information on:
- Relevant onshore drilling and integrated well-delivery experience, including proposed delivery partners where applicable.
- Suitable rig availability and current location.
- Indicative mobilisation lead times and readiness to operate in Syria.
- A nominated contact for the forthcoming tender and any ADIPEC meeting request.
Contractor enquiries and expressions of interest: gulfsands.drilling@gulfsands.com
This is preliminary market engagement, not an invitation to submit a priced bid. Registration does not constitute prequalification, confer preferred status or guarantee an award. Qualification will be assessed through the combined prequalification and tender process. The formal procurement notice and tender documents will specify the scope, eligibility, timetable and submission requirements.
Background
Gulfsands Petroleum is an independent UK-incorporated energy company focused on the Middle East and North Africa. Its principal asset is its interest in the Block 26 Production Sharing Contract in northeast Syria.
Source: Gulfsands Petroleum










