SEDIMENTARY BASINSAND PETROLEUM GEOLOGYOF THE MIDDLE EAST

A.S. ALSHARHANFaculty of Science, UAE universityP.O. BOX: 17551 Al AinUnited Arab Emirates

A.E.M. NAIRNEarth Science and Resources instituteuniversity of south CarolinaColumbia, s.c. 29208U.S.A.

ELSEVIER

Amsterdam • Lausanne - New York - Oxford - Shannon - Singapore - Tokyo 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART ONEChapter 1: An Introductory Overview

Geographic and Geomorphologic Setting 1Geologic Setting 4Sequence Stratigraphy 7

Chapter 2: The Geological History and Structural Elements of the Middle East

Introduction 15Geological History 22

Phase 1 The Consolidation of the Arabo-Nubian Massif 22Phase 2 Tectonic Stability 36Phase 3 The Hercynian Event 37Phase 4 The Triassic Extensional Phase 38Phase 5 Jurassic and Cretaceous Events 38Phase 6 Cenozoic Events 39

Main Structural Elements 44• Sedimentary Basins 46

Tabuk sub-basin, Saudi Arabia 47Widyan sub-basin, Saudi Arabia 47Sirhan sub-basin, Jordan 47Rub Al Khali and Ras Al Khaimah sub-basins, Saudi Arabia - U.A.E 48Zagros Basin, Iran 48Palmyra and Sinjar sub-basins, Syria-Iraq 50The Mesopotamian sub-basin, Iraq 50

,Red Sea and Gulf of Aden sub-basin, Saudi Arabia - Yemen 50• Arches 52

Huqf-Haushi Arch, Oman 52Hadhramout Arch, Yemen 52Central Arabian Arch, Saudi Arabia 52Qatar-South Fars Arch, Qatar - Iran 53Hail-Rutbah-Ga'ara and Khleissa Arches, Saudi Arabia - Iraq 53Mardin High, Turkey 53

• Transform Faults and Normal Faults 54Southeastern Arabian platform : 54

Masirah Transform Fault, Oman : 54Maradi Fault, Oman 54Saiwan-Nafun Fault, Oman , 54Dibba Zone, Oman - UAE 54Oman Line, Oman 54Owen Fracture Zone, Yemen - Oman 54

Northern Arabian Platform : Central Syrian Fault Zone 54Northwestern Arabian Platform : Jordan-Dead Sea Fault System 54Fold Belts: Taurus Mountains, Turkey 55

Zagros, Mountain, Iran 58Oman Mountains, Oman - U.A.E 59

Discussion 62

PART TWOChapter 3: Infracambrian of the Middle East

Introduction 65Stratigraphy of Infracambrian Rocks in Oman: 69

Huqf Group: 69Abu Mahara Formation .- 70Khufai Formation 70Shuram Formation 70Buah Formation 73Ara Formation 73

CONTENTS

The Age of the Huqf Group 74Comparison of the Huqf Group with other Outcrops in Oman 76

Mistal Formation 76Hajir Formation 76Mi'aidan Formation 76Kharus Formation 76Hijam Formation 76

Comparison of Oman with other Outcrops in the Middle East 77Comparison with the Republic of Yemen 77Comparison with the United Arab Emirates 78Comparison with Saudi Arabia 78Comparison with Jordan 80Comparison with Southeast Turkey 81Comparison with Iraq 81Comparison with Iran 81

Paleogeography and Geologic History of the Infracambrian 84

Chapter 4: The Early Paleozoic Quiescent Phase in the Middle East: The Sauk Cycleand the Early Part of the Tippecanoe Cycle

Introduction 87The Early Paleozoic of Oman 94

• The Sauk Sequence in Central and South-central Oman 94Haima Group (Cambrian? to earliest Silurian): 94

The Karim and Haradh formations :..-. 94The Amin Formation 95The Mahwis/Andam formations 95

• The Tippecanoe Sequence in Central Oman: 96Ghudun Formation 96Safiq Formation 96

• The Sauk and Tippecanoe Sequences in Southern Oman (Dhofar Province): 97Murbat Sandstone Formation 97

• The Sauk and Tippecanoe Sequences in Eastern and Southwestern Arabia 98Oman Mountains (Oman Region): Amdeh Formation 98Oman Mountains (United Arab Emirates Region): Ra'an Formation 100Southwestern Saudi Arabia: Dibsiyah Formation 100

The Early Paleozoic of Northern Saudi Arabia and Jordan 103• The Sauk Sequence in North and Northwestern Saudi Arabia: 103

Yatib Formation 103Saq Formation 103

• The Sauk Sequence in Jordan 108Ram Group 108

Subsurface Formations: 108Salib Formation 108Burj and Abu Khusheiba formations 110Ajram Formation 110Amud Formation 110

Surface Formations: 110Salib Arkosic Sandstone Formation 110Umm Ishrin Sandstone Formation I l lDisi Sandstone Formation I l lUmm Sahm Sandstone Formation I l l

• The Tippecanoe Sequence in North and Northwestern Saudi Arabia: I l lTabuk Group: I l l

Hanadir Formation 112Kahfah Formation 112Ra'an Formation 113Quwarah Formation (and its equivalent Ordovician Formations 1-5) 114

CONTENTS

Zarqa Formation 114Sarah Formation 115Qalibah Formation 115

• The Tippecanoe Sequence in Jordan 115Khreim Group 116

Subsurface Formations: 116Sahl as Suwwan Formation 116Umm Tarifa Formation 119Trebeel Formation 119Batra Formation 119Alna Formation 119

Surface Formations: 119Hiswah Formation 119Dubaydib Formation 120Mudawwara Formation 120Khushsha Formation 120

• The Tippecanoe Sequence in Iraq: Khabour Formation 120• The Tippecanoe Sequence in Kuwait: Tabuk Formation 121• The Tippecanoe Sequence in Qatar: 121

Tabuk Formation 121Sharawra Formation 121

• The Tippecanoe Sequence in the United Arab Emirates: Sharawra Formation 122The Early Paleozoic Sequence in Southeast Turkey and Syria 123

• The Sauk Sequence in Southeast Turkey: 123Sadan Formation 123

- Zabuk Formation 123Koruk Formation 126Sosink Formation • 126Seydisehir Formation '; 126

• The Sauk Sequence in Syria: Zabuk, Burj and Sosink formations 128• The Tippecanoe Sequence in Southeast Turkey: 128

Bedinan Formation 128Sort Tepe Formation 128

• The Tippecanoe Sequence in Syria: 128Khanasser Formation 129Swab Formation 129Afandi Formation 129Tanf Formation 129

The Early Paleozoic of Iran 129• The Sauk Sequence 129

Lalun Formation 129Dahu Formation 129Mila Formation 130Kalshaneh Formation 130Derenjal Formation 130Ilebeyk Formation 130

• The Tippecanoe Sequence: 133Shirgesht Formation 133Niur Formation 133Lashkerak Formation 133Zard Kuh Formation 134

Paleogeography and Geologic History of the Early Paleozoic 134

Chapter 5: The Early-Late Paleozoic of the Middle East: The Kaskaskia Cycle

Introduction 141The Kaskaskia Cycle in the Middle East 141

• The Kaskaskia Sequence in Northern Saudi Arabia 141

CONTENTS

Jauf Formation 141Sakaka Formation 147Pre-Unayzah Clastics (Berwath Formation) 148

• The Kaskaskia Sequence in Southwest Saudi Arabia: Khusayyayn Formation 148• The Kaskaskia Sequence in Qatar: Tawil Formation 149• The Kaskaskia Sequence in the United Arab Emirates: 149

Outcrop Formation: Ayim Formation 149Subsurface Formation: Tawil Formation 149

• The Kaskaskia Sequence in Oman: Misfar Group 150• The Kaskaskia Sequence in Kuwait: Jauf Formation 150• The Kaskaskia Sequence in Iran: 150

Padeha Formation 150Sibzar Formation 150Bahram Formation 150Geirud Formation 150

• The Kaskaskia Sequence in Iraq: 150Pirispiki Redbeds 151Kaista Formation 151Ora Shale Formation 151Harur Formation 151

• The Kaskaskia Sequence in Southeast Turkey: 151Dadas Formation 151Hazro Formation 153Yiginli Formation 153Koprulu Formation 153Kirtas Quartzite and Hasanbeyli Formations 154

• The Kaskaskia Sequence in Syria: Markada Group 154Paleogeography and Geologic History of the Late Paleozoic Kaskaskia Cycle 156

Chapter 6: The End of the Paleozoic and the Early Mesozoic of the Middle East:The Absaroka Cycle

The Lower Part of the Absaroka Cycle (Latest Carboniferous-Permian) 161The Paleozoic Part of the Absaroka Cycle 161

Absaroka Sequence South of the Central Arabian Arch : 168• Absaroka Sequence in Oman 168

Haushi Group: 169Al Khlata Formation 169Gharif Formation 169

Khuff Formation 171Saiq Formation 173

• Absaroka Sequence in the United Arab Emirates: 173Subsurface Formations: Haushi Group: 173

Gharif Formation 174Al Khlata Formation 175Khuff Formation 175

Surface Formations:Asfar and Qamar formations 175Russ Al Jibal Group: 175

Bih Formation 176Hagil Formation 176Ghail Formation 176

• Absaroka Sequence in Qatar: 176Haushi Formation 176Khuff Formation 177

• Absaroka Sequence in southwestern Saudi Arabia:Juwayl Member 178• Absaroka Sequence in the Republic of Yemen: Akbra Shale Formation 178

Absaroka Sequence North of the Central Arabian Arch: 178• Absaroka Sequence in Central and Northern Saudi Arabia 178

CONTENTS

Unayzah Formation 178Khuff Formation 182

• Absaroka Sequence in Kuwait: Khuff Formation 186• Absaroka Sequence in Bahrain: Khuff Formation 186

Absaroka Sequence in Northwest and Northeast of the Arabian Platform 186• Absaroka Sequence in Jordan 186

Outcrop Section: Umm Irna Formation 186Subsurface Section: Hudayb Group 187

Anjara Formation 187Huwayra Formation 188Buwayda Formation 188

• Absaroka Sequence in Iraq 189Western Iraq (Hail-Rutbah Arch area): 189

Nijili Formation 189Ga'ara Formation 189

Northern Iraq (Northern Thrust Belt Area): Chia Zairi Formation 189• Absaroka Sequence in Southeast Turkey 189

Gomaniibrik Formation 190• Absaroka Sequence in Syria: 190

Dolaa Formation 190Heil Formation 191Amanus Sand Formation 191

• Absaroka Sequence in Iran: 191Southwest Iran: Faraghan Formation 192

Dalan Formation 192Northern and Central Iran: 192

Dorud Formation 192Ruteh Formation 193Nesen Formation 193Jamal Formation 193

The Upper Part of the Absaroka Cycle (Triassic) 193The End of the Absaroka Cycle in Central Arabia 194

• Triassic of Saudi Arabia: 194Sudair Formation 197Jilh Formation 198Minjur Formation 198

The End of the Absaroka Cycle in Eastern Arabia: 199• Triassic of United Arab Emirates 199

Abu Dhabi and Dubai Region (Subsurface Section) 199Sudair Formation 199Jilh (Gulailah) Formation 199Minjur Formation 199

Northern Emirates Region (Outcrop Section) 201Milaha Formation 201Ghalilah Formation 201

• Triassic of Oman 201Central and Southern Oman (Subsurface Section) 201

Sudair Formation 202Jilh Formation 203

Central Oman Mountains,(Allochthonous Units) 203Mahil Formation 204Sumeini Group: 204

Maqam Formation 204Jebel Wasa Formation 206

Hawasina Assemblage 206Hamrat Duru Group: Zulla Formation 206

Wahrah Formation 207Al Ayn Formation 207

CONTENTS

Haifa Formation 209Haliw Formation 209Al Aridh Formation 209Ibra Formation 211

Haybi Complex: 211Hawasina Melange 211Exotic Limestone 211Haybi Volcanics 211Basal Serpentine and Tectonic Melange 211

Batinah Complex: 211Barghah Formation 213Sakhin Formation 213Salahi Formation 213Batinah Limestone Blocks 213

• Triassic of Qatar 213Suwei (Sudair) Formation 213Gulailah (Jilh) Formation 213Minjur Formation 214

The End of the Absaroka Sequence in the Eastern Arabian Gulf: .Southwestern Iran 214Kangan Formation 216Dashtak Formation 217Khaneh Kat Formation 217

The End of the Absaroka Sequence in the Central and Northern Arabian Gulf: 217• The Triassic of Bahrain: 217

Sudair Formation 217Jilh Formation 217

• The-Triassic of Kuwait: 218Sudair Formation 218Jilh Formation 218Minjur Formation 218

The End of the Absaroka Sequence in North and Northeastern Arabia: 218• The Triassic of Iraq: 218

Mirga Mir Formation 218Beduh Shale Formation 218Geli Khana Formation 218Mulussa Formation 219Zur Hauran Formation 219Kurra Chine Formation 220B aluti Formation 220

• The Triassic of Jordan: 220Outcrop Formation: 220

Abu Ruweis Formation 220Um Tina Formation 220Irq Al Amir Formation 220Mukheiris Formation 221Hisban Formation 221Ain Musa Formation 221Dardun Formation 221Ma'in Formation 221

Subsurface Formation: Ramtha Group: 222Suwayma Formation 222Hisban Formation 222Mukheiris Formation 222Salit Formation 223Abu Ruweis Formation 223

• The Triassic of Syria: 223Amanus Shale Formation 223Kurra Chine Formation 223Butmah Formation 224

CONTENTS

Adaiyah Formation 224Mus Formation 224Alan Formation 224

• The Triassic of Southeast Turkey: 224Cigli Group 224

Cudi Formation 224Aril Formation 224Beduh Formation 224

Paleogeography and Geologic History of the Absaroka Cycle 225The Lower Part of the Absaroka Cycle (latest Carboniferous-Permian) 225The Upper Part of the Absaroka Cycle (Triassic) 229

Chapter 7: The Late Mesozoic Part of the Zuni Cycle in the Middle East: The Jurassic

Introduction 235The Jurassic Section in Central Arabia 245

The Jurassic of Saudi Arabia: 245Marrat Formation 245Dhruma Formation 245Tuwaiq Mountain Formation 248Hanifa Formation 250Jubailah Formation 250Arab Formation 250Hith Formation 252

The Jurassic of Bahrain 254Marrat Formation 254Dhruma Formation 254Tuwaiq Mountain Formation 254Hanif a Formation 254Jubailah Formation 254Arab Formation 254Hith Formation 254

The Jurassic Section in Southern and Southwestern Arabia: The Republic of Yemen 254Kohlan Formation 255Amran Group: 257

Shuqra Formation 258Madbi Formation 258Sabatayn Formation 258Naifa Formation 258

The Jurassic Section in Eastern Arabia: 259• The Jurassic of the United Arab Emirates (Subsurface Formations) 259

Marrat Formation 259Hamlah Formation 259Izhara Formation 261Araej Formation 261Diyab Formation 262Arab Formation and its equivalents (Fahahil and Qatar formations) 263Hith Formation and its equivalents 263The Jurassic of the Northern United Arab Emirates (Surface Formations) :Musandam Group 266

• The Jurassic of Qatar 266Hamlah Formation 266Izhara Formation 267Araej Formation 267Diyab Formation '•••••• 269Darb Formation 269

Hanifa and Jubailah Formations 269Arab Formation and its equivalents: 269

Fahahil Formation 269

CONTENTS

Qatar Formation 271Arab Formation 271Hith Formation 271

The Jurassic Section in Extreme Eastern Arabia: Oman 271• The Jurassic of Northern Oman: Musandam Group 271• The Jurassic of Central Oman 273

Subsurface Formations: Sahtan Group: 273Mafraq Formation 273Dhruma Formation 273Tuwaiq Mountain Formation 273Hanifa Formation 273Jubailah Formation 274

Surface Formations: Sahtan Group: 274Saih Hatat Formation 275Mayhah Formation 277Guweyza Sandstone Formation 278Guweyza Limestone Formation 278

• The Jurassic of South Oman: Kohlan Formation 279The Jurassic Section on the Eastern Side of the Arabian Gulf: Southwestern Iran 279

Neyriz Formation 279Adaiyah Formation 279Mus Formation 279Alan Formation 279Sargelu Formation 279Najmah Formation 279Gotnia Formation .-.- 279Hith Formation 280Surmah "Formation 280

The Jurassic Section in Northeastern Arabia: 280• The Jurassic of Kuwait: ; 280

Marrat Formation 280Dhruma Formation 280Sargelu Formation 282Najmah Formation 282Gotnia Formation 283Hith Formation 283

• The Jurassic of Iraq 2831. Liassic Section of Iraq: 283

Ubaid Formation.... 283Butmah Formation 283Baluti Formation 283Adaiyah Formation 283Mus Formation 284Alan Formation 284Sarki Formation 284Sekhanian Formation 284

2. Dogger Section of Iraq: 285Muhaiwir Formation 285Sargelu Formation 285

3. Malm Section of Iraq (Early Sub-Cycle): 285Najmah Formation 285Gotnia (Anhydrite) Formation 286Naokelekan Formation 286Barsarin Formation 286

4. Malm Section of Iraq (Late Sub-cycle): 286Makhul Formation 286Chia Gara Formation 286Karima Mudstone Formation 287Sulaiy Formation 287

CONTENTS

The Jurassic Section in Northwestern and Northern Arabian Platform: 287• The Jurassic of Jordan 287

Surface Formations: 287Deir Alia Formation 287Zarqa Formation 287Dhahab Formation 288Umm Maghara Formation 289Arda Formation 289Muaddi Formation 289

Subsurface Formations: 289Azab Group 290

Hihi Formation 290Nimr Formation 290Silal Formation 290Dhahab Formation 290Ramla and Hamam Formations 290Mughanniya Formation 291

• The Jurassic of Syria: Qamchuqa Formation 291• The Jurassic of Southeast Turkey: Cudi Group 291

Jurassic Paleogeography and Geologic History 291

Chapter 8: The Late Mesozoic Part of the Zuni Cycle in the Middle East: The Cretaceous

Introduction 297The First Cycle: The Early Cretaceous ".". 311

• Early. Cretaceous of Saudi Arabia: 311Sulaiy Formation 316Yamama Formation 316Buwaib Formation 317Biyadh Formation 317Shuaiba Formation 319

• Early Cretaceous of Eastern Arabia: 319Early Cretaceous in the United Arab Emirates 319

Subsurface Formations: 319Rayda and Salil Formations : 319Habshan Formation 320Lekhwair Formation 321Kharaib Formation 321Shuaiba Formation 321

Surface Section: Musandam Group Unit 4 321Early Cretaceous in Qatar 324

Sulaiy Formation 324Yamama Formation 324Ratawi Formation 324Kharaib Formation 324Hawar Shale Formation 324Shuaiba Formation 324

Early Cretaceous of Bahrain 325Sulaiy Formation 325Yamama Formation 325Ratawi Formation 325Kharaib Formation 325Hawar Formation 325Shuaiba Formation 325

Early Cretaceous of Oman 325Western Oman Mountains (subsurface formations) 325

Rayda Formation 325Salil Formation 327

CONTENTS

Habshan Formation 327Lekhwair Formation 327Kharaib Formation 327Shuaiba Formation 327

Central Oman Mountains (Allochthonous Units) 327Sidr Formation 327Nayid Formation 327Mayhah Formation C Member 328Mayhah Formation D Member 328

Northern Oman Mountains (Musandam Peninsula) 329Musandam Member G 329Musandam Member H and I 329

• Early Cretaceous on the eastern side of the Arabian Gulf: southwestern Iran 329Fahliyan Formation 329Gadvan Formation 330Dariyan Formation 330Garau Formation 330

• Early Cretaceous in the Northern, Northwestern and Northeastern Arabian Platform: 330Early Cretaceous in Kuwait: 330

Sulaiy/Makhul Formation 330Minagish Formation 330Ratawi Formation 332Zubair Formation 332Shuaiba Formation 332

Early Cretaceous in Iraq: 3321. Southern Iraq: 332

Ratawi Formation 333Zubair Formation 333Shuaiba Formation 334

2. Northern Iraq .* 334Garagu Formation : 336Lower Balambo Formation 336Lower Sarmord Formation 336Lower Qamchuqa Limestone Formation 336

Early Cretaceous in Syria: 336Qamchuqa Formation ;• 336Rutbah Formation 336Hayane Formation 336

Early Cretaceous in Jordan: Kurnub Group 336Early Cretaceous in Southeast Turkey: 337

Mardin Group 337Areban Formation 338

• Early Cretaceous in Southern and Southwestern Arabia: 339The Republic of Yemen: Qishn Formation 339

The Second Cycle: The Mid-Cretaceous , 340• Mid-Cretaceous in Eastern Arabia: The United Arab Emirates 340

Subsurface Formations: 341Nahr Umr Formation 341Mauddud Formation 341Shilaif/Khatiyah Formation 341Mishrif Formation 341

Outcrop Formations: Nahr Umr and Mauddud formations 344• Mid-Cretaceous in Eastern Arabia: Oman 344

Western Oman Mountains (subsurface formations) 344Nahr Umr Formation 344Natih Formation 344Mauddud Formation 345Mishrif Formation 345

Central Oman Mountains (Allochthonous Units): Qumayrah Formation 346

CONTENTS

Northern Oman Mountains (Musandam Peninsula) 347Outcrop Section: Wasia Group 347Subsurface Section: 348

Kazdhumi Formation 348Mauddud Formation 348Khatiyah/Mishrif formations 348

Southern Oman (Dhofar Region) 348Qamar Formation 348Harshiyat Formation 348Fartaq Formation 348

• Mid-Cretaceous in Southwestern Iran 349Bangestan Group: 349

Kazdhumi Formation 349Sarvak Formation 349Surgah Formation 349

• Mid-Cretaceous in Central and Eastern Arabia: 349Mid-Cretaceous in Central and Eastern Saudi Arabia: Wasia Formation 350Mid-Cretaceous in Northwestern Saudi Arabia: Wasia Formation 352Mid-Cretaceous in Kuwait: Wasia Group 352

Burgan Formation 352Mauddud Formation 352Wara Formation 353Ahmadi Formation 353Magwa Formation 353

Mid-Cretaceous in Qatar: . Wasia Group 354Nahr Umr Formation 355

- Mauddud Formation 355Ahmadi Formation 355Khatiyah Formation 355Mishrif Formation 355

Mid-Cretaceous in Bahrain: Wasia Group 355Nahr Umr Formation 355Mauddud Formation 355Wara Formation 355Ahmadi Formation 355Rumaila Formation ". 355

Mid-Cretaceous in Northern Arabian Platform: 355• Mid-Cretaceous in Iraq 356

1. Southern and Southwestern Iraq: 356Nahr Umr Formation 356Mauddud Formation 356Wara Formation 356Ahmadi Formation 356Rumaila Formation 356Mishrif Formation 356

2. Western Iraq: 356Rutbah Formation 356M'sad Formation 356

3. Northern and Northeastern Iraq: 357Rim Siltstone Formation 357Jawan Formation 357Upper Qamchuqa Limestone Formation 357Upper Sarmord Formation 357Upper Balambo Formation 358Kifl Formation 358Dokan Limestone Formation 358

• Mid-Cretaceous in Jordan 358Ajlun Group: 358

Naur Formation 358

CONTENTS

Fuheis Formation 359Hummar Formation 359Shuayb Formation 359Wadi As Sir Formation 359Khureij Formation 360

• Mid-Cretaceous in Syria 360Judea Formation 360Massive Limestone Formation 360

• Mid-Cretaceous in Southeast Turkey 360Sabunsuyu Formation 360Derdere Formation 360

Mid-Cretaceous in Southern and Southwestern Arabia:The Republic of Yemen 362Harshiyat Formation 362Fartaq Formation 362

The Third Cycle: The Late Cretaceous 362Late Cretaceous in the southern Arabian Gulf:United Arab Emirates 363

Aruma Group 363Laffan Formation 363Halul Formation 363Ham Formation 363Fiqa Formation 363Simsima Formation 365Muti Formation 365Juweiza Formation 365Qahlah Formation ...-. 365

Late Cretaceous in Eastern Arabia: Oman 3651. Western Oman Mountains 365

Laffan Formation 365Fiqa Formation 367Muti Formation 367Juweiza Formation 367Qahlah Formation 367Simsima Formation 367

2. Central Oman Mountains (Allochthonous Units): 367Semail (Ophiolite) Nappe .-. 367

3. Northern Oman Mountains (Musandam Peninsula) 370Outcrop Section: Muti Formation 370Subsurface Section: Laffan Formation 370

Ham Formation 370Gurpi Formation 370

Late Cretaceous in Eastern Arabian Gulf: Southwestern Iran 370Ham Formation 370Gurpi Formation 371Tarbur Formation 372Amiran Formation 372

Late Cretaceous in Western and Northwestern Arabian Gulf 372• Late Cretaceous in Qatar: 372

Aruma Group 372Laffan Formation 372Halul Formation 372Fiqa/Ruilat Formation 372Simsima Formation 372

• Late Cretaceous in Bahrain: Aruma Group 373• Late Cretaceous in Kuwait: 373

Khasib/Mutriba Formation 373Sa'di Formation 373Hartha Formation 373Bahrah Formation 373

CONTENTS

Tayarat Formation 373Late Cretaceous in Central and Southwestern Arabia: 373

• Late Cretaceous in Saudi Arabia: Aruma Formation 373• Late Cretaceous in the Republic of Yemen: 374

Mukalla Formation 374Sharwain Formation 374Tawilah Group 374

Ghiras Formation 374Medj-Zir Formation 374

Late Cretaceous in the Northern Arabian Platform: 375• Late Cretaceous in Iraq 376

1. Southern Iraq: 376Khasib Formation 376Tanuma Formation 376Sa'di Formation 376Hartha Formation 376Qurna Formation 376Tayarat Formation 376

2.Western Iraq: Digma Formation 3763.High Folded Zone of Iraq: 377

Gulneri Formation 377Kometan Formation 377Shiranish Formation 377Bekhme Formation 377Hadiena Formation 377Tanjero Formation 377Aqra Formation 377

• Late Cretaceous in Jordan: Belqa Group 377Surface Formations: 378

Wadi Umm Ghudran Formation 378Amman Formation 378Al Hisa Formation '. 378Muwaqqar Formation 379

Subsurface Formations: 379Rajil Formation 379Hamza Formation 379Hazim Formation 379Amman and Al Hisa formations 379Usaykhim Formation 379Muwaqqar Formation 379

• Late Cretaceous in Syria 380Soukhne Formation 380Shiranish Formation 380

• Late Cretaceous in Southeast Turkey 380Karababa Formation 380Karabogaz Formation 380Sayindere Formation 380Korkandil Formation 380Kastel Formation 380Terbuzek Formation 381Besni Formation 381Germav Formation 382

Cretaceous Paleogeography and Geologic History 382Tectonic Events 382Paleogeography and Cyclicity: 384

Early Cretaceous Cycle 384Mid-Cretaceous Cycle 388Late Cretaceous Cycle 390

CONTENTS

Chapter 9: The latest part of the Zuni and Tejas cycles of the Middle East: The Cenozoic

Introduction 393Part 1: The Paleogene of the Middle East 396

• The Paleogene of the Central, Eastern and Northeastern Arabian Platform 408Paleogene of Saudi Arabia 409

Umm Er Radhuma Formation 409Rus Formation 411Dammam Formation 411

Paleogene of Qatar 412Umm Er Radhuma Formation 412Rus Formation 412Dammam Formation 412

Paleogene of Bahrain 414Umm Er Radhuma Formation 414Rus Formation 414Dammam Formation 414

Paleogene of Kuwait 415Radhuma Formation 415Rus Formation 416Dammam Formation 417

Paleogene of Southern and Western Iraq 417Umm Er Radhuma Formation 417Rus Formation 417Dammam Formation 417

Paleogene of Southwestern and Southeastern Iran and adjoining areas 418Pabdeh Formation 418Jahrum Formation '.- 419Shahbazan Formation 419Taleh Zang Formation 420Kashkan Formation 420Asmari Formation 420

Paleogene of the United Arab Emirates 420Umm Er Radhuma Formation 421Rus Formation 421Dammam Formation 421Asmari Formation 422Pabdeh Formation '. 422

Paleogene of Oman 423Central and Western Oman Mountains (outcrop formations) 423

Jafnayn Limestone Formation 423Rusayl Formation 423Seeb Limestone Formation 424Ruwaydah Formation 425Fahud Formation 425Muthaymimah Formation 425

Southern Oman (Dhofar Region): (outcrop formation) Hadhramout Group 426Umm Er Radhuma Formation 426Rus Formation 426Andhur and Qara formations 426Taqa Formation 426

Central and Southern Oman: (subsurface formations) Hadhramout Group 426Umm Er Radhuma Formation 426Rus Formation 427Dammam Formation 427

Fars Group: Taqa Formation 427Northern Offshore Oman 428

Pabdeh Formation 428

CONTENTS

Lower Fars Formation 428Guri Formation 428Mishan and younger formations 428

• The Paleogene of Southern, Southwestern and Western Arabia 428Paleogene of Western Saudi Arabia (Red Sea Region) 428

Suqah Group: 428Pre-Usfan Formation 428Usfan Formation 429

Matiyah Formation 429Paleogene of the Republic of Yemen 429

Paleogene of East and Southeast Yemen: Hadhramout Group 429Umm Er Radhuma Formation 429Jeza Formation 429Rus Formation 429Habshiya Formation 429

Paleogene of West and Northwest Yemen 429Yemen Volcanics (Aden Trap Series) 430

• The Paleogene of the Northern Arabian Platform: 430Paleogene of Northwest Saudi Arabi: Hibr Group 430Paleogene of Jordan 431

Subsurface Formation: Umm Rijam Formation 432Wadi Shallala Formation 432

Surface Formation: Umm Rijam Formation 433Wadi Shallala Formation 433Taiyiba Formation.....: 433Taqiye Marl Formation 433Sar'a Chalk-Flint Formation 433Ma'an Nummulitic Limestone Formation 434Dhahkiye Chalk Formation 434

• Paleogene of Syria 434Aaliji Formation 434Palmyra Formation 434Kermav Formation 434Sinjar Formation 434Jaddala Formation 434Chilou Formation 434Midyat Formation 434

• Paleogene of Northern Iraq 435Kolosh Formation 435Sinjar Formation 435Khurmala Formation 435Aaliji Formation 435Jaddala Formation 435Avanah Formation 435Gercus Formation 436Pila Spi Limestone Formation 436Kirkuk Group: Shurau Limestone Formation 436

Sheikh Alas Formation 436Tarjil Formation 436Bajawan Formation ; 436Baba Formation 436Anah Formation 437Azkand Formation 437Ibrahim Formation 437

• Paleogene of Southeast Turkey 437Part 2: The Neogene of the Middle East 437

The Neogene of the Central and Eastern Arabian Platform: 439• Neogene of Saudi Arabia 439

CONTENTS

Hadrukh Formation 439Dam Formation 439Hofuf Formation 439Kharj Formation 439

• Neogene of Qatar 439Lower Fars Formation 439Dam Formation 439Hofuf Formation 439

• Neogene of Bahrain 439Jabal Cap Formation 439Ras al Aqr Formation 439

• Neogene of the United Arab Emirates 441Gachsaran Formation 441Mishan Formation 441Hofuf Formation 441

• Neogene of Oman 441Miocene Conglomerate and Younger Deposits 441

The Neogene of Southern and Western Arabia: 441• Neogene of Western Saudi Arabia (Red Sea Region) 441

Tayran Group: Musayr Formation 442Yanbu Formation 442Al Wajh Formation 442Jizan Volcanic Formation 442

Burqan Formation 442•Magna Group: Kial Formation 442

Jabal Kibrit Formation 442Mansiyah Formation 442Ghawwas Formation '.. 442Lisan Formation 443

• Neogene of Yemen: Aden Volcanic Series 443The Neogene of Northeastern Arabia: 443

• Neogene of Kuwait 443Ghar Formation 443Lower Fars Formation , 443Dibdibba Formation 443

• Neogene of Southern Iraq 443Ghar Formation 443Lower Fars Formation 443Upper Fars Formation 443Zahra Formation 444Bakhtiari Formation 444

•Neogene of Southwestern Iran 444Gachsaran Formation 444Razak Formation 445Mishan Formation 445Agha Jari Formation 446Bakhtiari Formation 446

The Neogene of the Northern Arabian Platform: 447• Neogene of Jordan 447

Sirhan-Azraq-Jafr Basins (Subsurface Formation) 447Qirma Formation 447Azraq Formation 447Jafr Formation 447

Northeastern and Eastern Jordan (Surface Outcrop) 447Tertiary Basaltic Plateau 447

Surface outcrop in Dead Sea-Jordan Rift 447Dana Conglomerate Formation 447Lisan Marl Formation 448

CONTENTS

• Neogene of Syria 449Dhiban Formation 449Jeribe Formation 449Lower Fars Formation 449Upper Fars Formation 449Bakhtiari Formation 449

• Neogene of the Foothills and High Folded Zone of Northern Iraq 449Euphrates Limestone Formation 449Serikagni Formation 449Dhiban Formation 449Jeribe Limestone Formation 449

• Neogene of Southeast Turkey 449Part 3: Cenozoic Paleogeography and Geologic History 451

Paleogene Paleogeography 458Neogene Paleogeography 462

PART THREEChapter 10 : Hydrocarbon Habitat of the Middle East

Introduction 467Surface Oil and Gas Seeps 467

Turkey 468Iran 468Iraq 469Kuwait .'. 469Saudi -Arabia 469Bahrain 469Yemen 469Syria, Lebanon and Jordan 469

History of Exploration 470Current Status of Middle East Oil 473

Hydrocarbon Productivity 489Source Rocks 492Geochemistry of Oil and Gas 502Reservoir Rocks • 510

Infracambrian to Paleozoic 511Triassic and Jurassic 516Cretaceous 516Tertiary 517

Cap Rocks (Seals) 517Traps 520Timing of Trap Formation 521

The Greater Arabian and Omani Basins 521The Zagros Basin : 521

Potential Plays 522

Chapter 11: Hydrocarbon Habitat of the Greater Arabian BasinIntroduction 525Kuwait and the Kuwait-Saudi Arabia Neutral Zone 525

Stratigraphic History 527Structural History 528Reservoir Rocks 530

Lower Cretaceous Reservoirs 530Minagish Formation .-••••• 530Ratawi Formation 530Zubair Formation 530

Middle Cretaceous Reservoirs 531

CONTENTS

Burgan Formation 531Mauddud Formation 531Wara Formation 531Mishrif Formation 531

Upper Cretaceous Reservoirs 531Tayarat Formation 531

Tertiary Reservoirs 531Radhuma Formation 531

Seals and Seal Formations 532Gotnia Formation 532Sargelu Formation 532Ratawi Formation 532Zubair Formation 532Burgan Formation 532Ahmadi Formation 532Mutriba Formation 532Khasib Formation 532Rus Formation 532Lower Fars Formation 532

Oil Geochemistry and Source Rocks 532Middle Cretaceous Source Rocks 534

Rumaila and Mishrif Formations 534Ahmadi Formation 534Wara Formation 534Mauddud Formation 534Burgan Formation 534

Lower Cretaceous Source Rocks 534Shuaiba Formation : 534Zubair Formation i 537Ratawi Formation 537Minagish Formation 537Sulaiy Formation 537

Jurassic Source Rocks 537Dhruma Formation 537Sargelu Formation 537Najmah Formation 537

Kuwait Oil Fields 537Greater Burgan Field 538Bahrah Field 540Raudhatain Field 541Sabriya Field 542Minagish Field 542Umm Gudair Field 544Khafji Field 544Wafra Field 544Dorra Field 547Hout Field 547Lulu field 547Umm Gudair South Field 547South Fuwaris Field 547

Bahrain 548Structure 549Stratigraphy 551Reservoirs 551

Khuff Formation 553Arab Formation 554Mauddud Formation 554

CONTENTS

Seals 554Source Rocks and Hydrocarbon Migration and Accumulation 554Production and Reserves 558

Qatar 559Structure 559Stratigraphy 559Reservoir Characteristics 561

Tabuk Formation 561Sharawra Formation 562Tawil Formation 562Haushi Formation 562Khuff Formation 562Izhara Formation 562Araej Formation 562Arab Formation 563Kharaib Formation 564Shuaiba Formation 564Nahr Umr Formation 564Mauddud Formation 564Mishrif and Khatiyah formations 564

Seals and Seal Formations 564Tabuk Formation 564Sharawra Formation 564Tawil Formation 564Haushi Formation 564Sudair Formation 564Izhara and Araej formations 564Hanifa and Lower Jubailah formations 564Arab Formation 564Hith Anhydrite 564Hawar Formation 565Nahr Umr Formation 565Khatiyah Formation 565Laffan Formation 565

Source Rocks :• 565Sharawra Formation 565Haushi Formation 565Hanifa Formation 565Jubailah Formation 565Shuaiba Formation 565Mauddud Formation 565Mishrif/Khatiyah formations 565

Oil characteristics and hydrocarbon maturation 566Oil and Gas Fields 566

Dukhan Field 566Idd El Shargi Field 568Maydan Mahzam Field 571Bui Hanine Field 571North Field 574

United Arab Emirates 575Regional Stratigraphy 575Reservoirs 576

Haushi Group 578Khuff Formation 578Sudair-Gulailah-Minjur formations 578Araej Formation 578Diyab Formation 579Arab Formation 579

CONTENTS

Thamama Group 579Habshan Formation 579Lekhwair Formation 579Kharaib Formation 579Shuaiba Formation 579

Mishrif Formation 579Aruma Group: 580

Ham Formation 580Halul Formation 580Simsima Formation 580

Asmari and Gachsaran formations 580Seals and Seal Formation 580Source Rocks and Oil Geochemistry 580Traps 585Oil and Gas Fields 590

Zakum Oil Field 590Asab Oil Field 590Bu Hasa Oil Field 591Margham Gas-Condensate Field 594Fateh Oil Field 595Bab Oil Field 595El Bunduq Oil Field 595Sajaa Gas-Condensate Field 596

Jordan .-. 598History of Exploration 602The Sedimentary Basins and their Hydrocarbon Potential 604

Dead Sea-Jordan Valley Basin 604Azraq Basin .; 605Sirhan Basin : 605North Jordanian Highlands 605Al Jafr Basin 607Risha Basin 607Basalt Plateau 607

Saudi Arabia 608Tectonic and Stratigraphic Framework 608Hydrocarbon Systems 611Source Rocks 613

Paleozoic Formations 613Jurassic Formations 618Cretaceous Formations 621Cenozoic Formations 622

Reservoir Rocks 625Saq Formation 626Tabuk Formation 626Jauf Formation 626Unayzah Formation 626Khuff Formation 627Marrat Formation 628Dhruma Formation : 628Tuwaiq Mountain Formation 628Hanifa Formation 628Jubailah Formation 629Arab Formation 629Hith Formation 631Sulaiy Formation 631Yamama Formation 631Buwaib Formation 631Biyadh Formation 631

CONTENTS

Shuaiba Formation 633Wasia Formation 633Lower Aruma Formation 633Tertiary Formations 633

Cap Rock 633Hanadir Shale Member 633Ra'an Shale Member 634Qusaiba Shale member 634Unayzah Formation 634Khuff Formation 634Lower Sudair Formation 634Marrat Formation 634Dhruma Formation 634Hanifa Formation 634Jubailah Formation 634Arab Formation 634Hith Formation 634Buwaib Formation 634Biyadh Formation 634Wasia Formation (Ahmadi Member) 634Wasia Formation (Rumaila Member) 634Aruma Formation 634Dam Formation 634Mansiyah Formation 634Ghawwas Formation 634

Structure and Trap Mechanisms 634Oil Field Examples 637

Supergiant Ghawar Oil Field 637Harmaliyah Oil Field ; 638Qatif Oil Field : 638Khursaniyah Oil Field 639Abqaiq Oil Field 639

Yemen 642Structural and Stratigraphic Framework 643Hydrocarbon Parameters 644

Ma'rib-Jawf-Shabwa-Balhaf Graben System 644Eastern Tableland 644

Northern Flank 644Hadhramout-Jeza-Qamar Basin 644Sayhut Basin 647

Red Sea Coastal Area and the Tihama Sub-basin 647Gulf of Aden Basin 647

Chapter 12: The Hydrocarbon Habitat of the Zagros Basin

Introduction 651Southeast Turkey 653

Introduction and History of Exploration 653Structure and Traps 653Reservoir Characteristics 658

Paleozoic 659Bedinian Formation 659Handof Formation 659Hazro Formation 659

Mesozoic 659Aril Formation 659Mardin Group: 659

Sabunsuyu Formation 659

CONTENTS

Derdere Formation 659Karababa Formation 659

Karabogaz Formation 659Raman Formation 659Garzan Formation 659Germav Formation 660

Late Mesozoic to Cenozoic 660Sinan Formation 660

Crude Oil Geochemistry 661Source Rocks: 662

Paleozoic Formations: 664Bedinian Formation 664Dadas Formation 664

Triassic-Jurassic Formations 664Cretaceous Formations: 664

Derdere Formation 664Ortabag Formation 664Kiradag Formation 664Karababa Formation 664Karabogaz Formation 664Kastel Formation 665

Tertiary Formations 665Seals and Seal Formations 667

Telhasan Formation : 667Kastel Formation 667Mardin Group 667Karabogaz, Sayindere and Beloka formations 667Kiradag Formation ".-. 667Germav Formation 667Gercus formation 667

Oil Field Examples 667Raman and Bati-Raman fields 667Garzan Field 669Dodan Field 669

Syria 670Introduction and History of Exploration 670Structure and Traps 673Reservoir Characteristics 673

Kurra Chine Formation 680Mulussa Formation 681Butmah Formation 681Dolaa Group 681Cherrife Formation 681Qamchuqa Formation 681Soukhne Formation 681Massive Limestone 681Shiranish Formation 681Jaddala Formation 681Chilou Formation 681Dhiban Formation 681Jeribe Formation 681

Source Rocks 681Crude Oil Geochemistry 683Seals and Seal Formations 685

Mulussa Formation 688Kurra Chine Formation 688Adaiyah Formation 689Alan Formation 689

CONTENTS

Sargelu Formation 689Cherrife Formation 689Shiranish Formation 689Aalij i Formation 689Jaddala Formation 689Dhiban Formation 689Lower Fars Formation 689

Oil Field Examples 690Iraq 691

Introduction 691Stratigraphy 694Structure and Traps 696Reservoir Characteristics 697

Khabour Quartzite Formation 698Alan Formation 698Gotnia Anhydrite Formation 698Najmah Limestone Formation 698Yamama Formation 698Sulaiy Formation 698Ratawi Formation 700Zubair Formation 700Shuaiba Formation 700Nahr Imr Formation 700Rumaila Formation 700Mishrif Formation 700Hartha Formation 702Lower Fars Formation/Ghar Formation 702

Zagros Basin Reservoir Formation 702Kurra Chine Formation 702Butmah Formation 702Sargelu Formation 702Chia Gara Formation 702Garagu Formation 702Sarmord Formation 702Jawan Formation 702Dokan Limestone Formation 702Upper Balambo Formation 702Kometan Formation 702Mushorah Formation 702Shiranish Formation 702Asmari Formation 702Kalhur Formation 702Serikagni Formation 702Euphrates Limestone Formation 702Jeribe Limestone Formation 703Qamchuqa Group 703Kirkuk Group 703

Source Rocks and Oil Geochemistry 705Seals and Seal Formations 706Cap Rocks in the Arabian Basin 710

Gotnia Formation 710Ratawi Formation 710Zubair Formation 710Nahr Umr Formation ; 710Khasib Formation 710Shiranish Formation 710Lower Fars Formation 710

CONTENTS

Cap Rocks in the Zagros Basin 710Pirispiki Redbeds 710Baluti Formation 710Adaiyah Formation 710Naokelekan Formation 710Khasib Formation 710Shiranish Formation 710Aaliji Formation 710Dhiban Formation 710

Oil Field Examples 710Ain Zalah Field 710Butmah Field 711Kirkuk Field 711Bai Hassan Field 712Qaiyarah Fields 712Buzurgan Field 712Nahr Umr Field 713Rumaila Field 713Zubair Field 713

Iran 716Introduction 716Stratigraphy 716Structure and Traps 718Reservoir Characteristics 720

Zagros Basin Reservoir Formations 720Faraghan Formation 720Dalan Formation (Khuff equivalent) 721Kangan Formation 721Surmeh Formation -. 721Fahliyan Formation 721Garau Formation 721Dariyan Formation 721Bangestan Group 721Sarvak Formation 721Ham Formation 721Asmari Limestone 721Mishan Formation 722

Arabian Basin Reservoirs Formations 722Khuff Formation 722Khami Group 722Arab Formation 722Fahliyan Formation 722Gadvan Formation 722Dariyan Formation 722Kazhdhumi Formation 722Mishrif Formation 722Jahrum Formation 722Ghar Formation 722

Source Rocks and Oil Geochemistry 723Asmari Formation 723Pabdeh Formation 723Gurpi Formation 723Kazhdhumi Formation 724Garau Formation 724Sargelu Formation 726

Paleozoic source rocks 726Oil Geochemistry 726

CONTENTS

Seals and Seal Formations 729Dashtak Formation 729Kangan Formation 729Hith Formation 729Gadvan Formtion 729Kazhdhumi Formation 729Gurpi Formation 729Gachsaran Formation 730

Oil Field Examples 730Pazanun Field 730Kuh-i-Mund Field 730Masjid-i-Sulaiman Field 730Naft-i-Shah Field 733Lali Field 733Agha Jari Field 733Gachsaran Field 733Bahregansar Field 734Haft Kel Field 734Bibi Hakimeh Field 735Abouzar (Ardeshir) Field 735Naft-Safid Field 735

Chapter 13: The Hydrocarbon Habitat of the Oman Basin

Introduction 737The Oman Sedimentary Basin 738

Source Rocks, Oil Geochemistry and Hydrocarbon Generation 746Source Rocks 746Oil Geochemistry 747

Infracambrian Huqf Oil Geochemistry 747Infracambrian "Q" Crude Oil Geochemistry 747Silurian Safiq Oil Geochemistry 747Upper Jurassic Diyab Oil Geochemistry 750Cretaceous Natih Oil Geochemistry 750

Hydrocarbon Generation and Migration 750Burial History 751

Reservoir Rocks 753Infracambrian Reservoirs 755Cambro-Ordovician Reservoirs 755Permian Reservoirs 756Lower Cretaceous Reservoirs 757Middle Cretaceous Reservoirs 757Paleocene Reservoirs 757

Seals and Seal Formations '. 757Infracambrian Seals 758Cambro-Ordovician Seals 758Permian and Triassic Seals 758Cretaceous Seals 758Paleocene Seals 758

Structure and Traps 758Oil Field Examples 760

Fahud and Natih Fields 760Al Huwaisah Field 762Lekhwair Field 763Yibal Field 764Safah Field 766Mukhaizna Field 766Marmul Field 767

CONTENTS

Nimr Field 770Saih Rawl Field 770Qaharir Field 771Rima Field 772Bukha Field 772

References 775-811Index 813-843Appendices A2-A99