NEW DELHI / ABU DHABI – In a landmark achievement for India’s international energy footprint, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Shri Hardeep Singh Puri announced on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, that Indian state-run energy giants have made dual light crude oil discoveries in Abu Dhabi.

The breakthroughs were achieved by Urja Bharat Pte Limited (UBPL), a 50:50 joint venture between Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and Bharat PetroResources Limited (BPRL), the upstream arm of BPCL.

Twin Discoveries: Unlocking New Reservoirs

The exploration program, which involved an investment of nearly USD 166 million, has successfully tapped into both unconventional and traditional oil plays across the 6,162 square kilometre concession:

• The Shilaif Play (Well XN-76): Marking a technical milestone, the JV established the presence of unconventional oil resources. Following advanced hydrofracking operations in early 2024, the well flowed light crude oil to the surface.
• The Habshan Reservoir (Well XN79-02S): More recently, testing at this exploratory well resulted in the first-ever oil discovery within the Habshan reservoir in this specific concession area, further diversifying the block's potential.

Strategic Impact and Energy Security

These discoveries are a centerpiece of India’s "Quest for Energy Self-Sufficiency." Minister Hardeep Singh Puri highlighted that the breakthroughs reflect the "technical excellence" of Indian teams and reinforce the nation's commitment to energy security through international partnerships.