Drilling efficiency is the one lever operators actually control
Hydrocarbon production is a highly complex business – from geological probability of success averaging only ~32% globally to challenging drilling conditions and reservoir depths. Most factors are outside operators' control. What producers can influence is drilling efficiency – and this is where Saudi Arabia stands out globally.
Indicative onshore drilling depth and well cost ranges
Sources: EIA; IEA; OPEC country data; national oil company disclosures, industry benchmarks.
Note: Indicative onshore ranges only. Well depth varies significantly by basin, while drilling cost depends heavily on geological complexity, reservoir structure and rock properties.
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