Regional Tectonics To Basin Fill Architecture From Aptian Shuaiba FM To Miocene Fars GP of Abu Dhabi

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Regional Tectonics to Basin Fill Architecture from Aptian Shuaiba Fm to Miocene

Fars Gp of Abu Dhabi
Conference Paper · December 2021

DOI: 10.2118/207722-MS
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SPE-207722-MS
Regional Tectonics to Basin Fill Architecture from Aptian Shuaiba Fm to
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Miocene Fars Gp of Abu Dhabi
Bernardo Jose Franco, Maria Agustina Celentano, and Desdemona Magdalena Popa, ADNOC Upstream
Copyright 2021, Society of Petroleum Engineers
This paper was prepared for presentation at the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference to be held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, 15 – 18 November 2021.
The official proceedings were published online on 9 December 2021.
This paper was selected for presentation by an SPE program committee following review of information contained in an abstract submitted by the author(s). Contents
of the paper have not been reviewed by the Society of Petroleum Engineers and are subject to correction by the author(s). The material does not necessarily reflect
any position of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, its officers, or members. Electronic reproduction, distribution, or storage of any part of this paper without the written
consent of the Society of Petroleum Engineers is prohibited. Permission to reproduce in print is restricted to an abstract of not more than 300 words; illustrations may
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Abstract
Objectives/Scope: Aptian (Shuaiba-Bab) and Cenomanian (Mishrif-Shilaif) intra-shelf basins were
extensively studied with their genesis focused on environmental/climatic disturbances (Vahrenkamp et al.,
2015a). Additionally, local tectonic events can also affect the physiography of these basins, especially the
Cenomanian intra-shelf basin subjected to NE compressional regime. As this ongoing regime increased at
Late-Cretaceous and Miocene, it led to more tectonic-driven basin physiography. This paper investigates the
areal extent, interaction, and commonalities between the extensional Aptian intra-shelf basin, compressional
Late-Cretaceous intra-shelf basin, Late-Cretaceous-Paleogene foreland basin, and Late Oligocene-Miocene
salt basin.
Methods, Procedures, Process: To understand the genesis, driving forces, and distribution of these basins,
we used a combination of several large-scale stratigraphic well correlations and seismic, together with age
dating, cores, and extensive well information (ADNOC proprietary internal reports). The methodology used
this data for detailed mapping of 11 relevant time stratigraphic intervals, placing the mapped architecture
in the context of the global eustatic sea level and major geodynamic events of the Arabian Plate.
Results, Observations, Conclusions: Aptian basin took place as a consequence of environmental/climatic
disturbances (Vahrenkamp et al., 2015a). However, environmental factors alone cannot explain isolated
carbonate build-ups on salt-related structures at the intra-shelf basin, offshore Abu Dhabi. Subsequently,
the emplacement of thrust sheets of Tethyan rocks from NE, and following ophiolite obduction (Searle et
al., 1990; Searle, 2007; Searle and Ali, 2009; Searle et al., 2014), established a compressional regime in
the Albian?-Cenomanian. This induced tectonic features such as: loading-erosion on eastern Abu Dhabi,
isolated carbonate build-ups, and reactivation of a N-S deep-rooted fault (possibly a continuation of
Precambrian Amad basement ridge from KSA). This N-S feature was probably the main factor contributing
the basin axis change from E-W Aptian trend to N-S position at Cenomanian. Further compression
continued into the Coniacian-Santonian, leading to a nascent foreland basin. This compression established
a foredeep in eastern Abu Dhabi, separated by a bulge from the northern extension of the eastern
Rub’ Al-Khali basin (Ghurab syncline) (Patton and O'Connor, 1988). Numerous paleostructures were
developed onshore Abu Dhabi, together with several small patch-reefs on offshore salt growing structures.
2 SPE-207722-MS
Campanian exhibits maximum structuration associated to eastern transpression related to Masirah ophiolite
obduction during India drift (Johnson et al., 2005, Filbrandt et al., 2006; Gaina et al., 2015). This caused
more differentiation of the foredeep, onshore synclines, and northern paleostructures, which continued to
cease through Maastrichtian. From Paleocene to Late-Eocene, paleostructure growth intensity continued
decreasing and foreland basin hydrological restriction began with the Neotethys closure. Through Oligocene
until Burdigalian this situation continued, where the Neotethys closed with the Zagros Orogeny (Sharland
et al., 2001), causing a new environmental/climatic disturbances period. These disturbances prevented
the continued progradation of the carbonate factory into the foredeep, leading to conspicuous platform-
basin differentiation. Additionally, the Zagros orogeny tilted the plate northeastward, dismantling the
paleostructures generated at Late-Cenomanian. Finally, during an arid climate in the Burdigalian to Middle-
Miocene, the confined Neogene sea filled the foredeep accommodation space with massive evaporites.
Novel/Additive Information: Little has been published about the outline and architecture of these basins
in Abu Dhabi and the detailed circumstances that led to their genesis using subsurface information.
Introduction
The depositional history of Aptian to Miocene sequence of Abu Dhabi starts with intra-shelf basins
breaking-up shallow carbonate platforms (Shuaiba/Bab system) during a NE-SW extensional phase in
the Arabian Plate (Murris, 1980). This system greatly changes with the onset of a compressional regime
at Albian?-Cenomanian with thrust belts emplacement and subsequent ophiolite obduction along the
eastern margin of the Arabian Plate (Searle et al. 1990, Searle, 2007, Searle and Ali, 2009, Searle et al.,
2014). Cenomanian Mishrif-Shilaif intra-shelf basin geometry is affected by this compressional regime
(Burchette, 1985, 1993; Patton and O'Connor, 1988; Burchette et al., 2010). Subsequently, a shale-filled
open marine foredeep started at Coniacian-Santonian with maximum subsidence during Late Campanian.
Tectonic quiescence began at Maastrichtian until the Mid-Late Eocene uplift and exhumation of the Oman
Mountains affected the infill of the foredeep with increased subsidence and clastic influx availability.
Finally, during Late Oligocene (Chattian) to Middle Miocene, the paleogeographical confinement due to
structural narrowing of the foredeep and the climatic aridity persistency resulted in a widespread extension
of massive evaporites covering the foredeep basin (Ziegler, 2001).
Using a combination of large-scale stratigraphic well correlations and seismic, together with previous
publications (Murris, 1980; Pelissier et al.,1980; Bechennec, 1987; Patton and O'Connor, 1988; Hertig et
al., 1994; Sharland et al., 2001; Ziegler, 2001; van Buchem et al.; 2002a; van Buchem et al.; 2002b; Hohman
et al., 2005; Al Zaabi et al., 2010; Droste, 2010; Taher, 2010; van Buchem et al.; 2010a; van Buchem et
al.; 2014; Mansouri-Daneshvar et al. 2015; Vahrenkamp et al. 2015a; Vahrenkamp et al., 2015b; Stewart,
2016, Taher et al., 2019) this paper pursues to summarize and place the mapped architecture of relevant
time stratigraphic intervals from Aptian to Miocene in the context of the global eustatic sea level and major
geodynamic events of the Arabian Plate.
Tectonostratigraphic Evolution
Aptian Platform-Intra-shelf Basin
"During Aptian global climate stress, carbonate sedimentation was unable to keep up in areas with relatively
high subsidence rates and laterally segregated, providing the impulse for a switch from flat-topped platforms
to a nascent basin topography" (Vahrenkamp et al., 2015a). Even though Mid -Early Cretaceous was a period
of tectonic quiescence in the northeastern margin of the Arabian plate, halokinesis affected the extensional
Aptian interval offshore Abu Dhabi and surrounding countries.
Depending on the timing of these halokinetic structures, some of them created paleobathymetric highs
and activated isolated carbonate factories inside the Aptian intra-shelf basin. These structures developed
SPE-207722-MS 3
isolated Shuaiba platforms in wells 0, 2, 5, 8 (Figure 1), 22 and 24 (Figure 2) of western Abu Dhabi. These
features, drilled by wells, coincide with present day doming in seabed bathymetry. In addition, possible
undrilled isolated build-up platforms development on current salt-related islands might be present offshore
Abu Dhabi (Figure 3).
Figure 1—West-East section flattened at top Kharaib, large Shuaiba platform (Apt 1-4) development is present in
eastern Qatar prior entering into the Aptian basin. Numerous isolated build-up (Apt 1-4) development took place at
western intra-shelf basin. Upper Shuaiba (Apt5) lowstand deposits (van Buchem et al., 2010a) filled the pre-existing
accommodation space in an extremely complex way surrounding the isolated build-ups. Finally, deposited Nahr Umr
shales filled Bab intra-shelf basin topography. The shallower water limestone development at Nahr Umr time on salt-
related build-up platforms denotes an active structural growth and a restored active carbonate factory. The fine-grain,
estuarine/shallow-marine sandstones in western Abu Dhabi contrast with limestones observed in eastern Abu Dhabi.
Figure 2—North-South section flattened at top Kharaib, large Shuaiba platform (Apt 1-4) development is
present in southern Abu Dhabi prior entering into the Aptian basin. Isolated build-up (Apt 1-4) development
took place at central intra-shelf basin. Upper Shuaiba (Apt5) lowstand deposits (van Buchem et al., 2010a)
filled the pre-existing accommodation space in an extremely complex way surrounding the isolated build-ups.
4 SPE-207722-MS
Figure 3—Lower Shuaiba (Apt 1-4) isochore map combining data and maps from Murris (1980), Hohman
et al. (2005), Droste (2010) and Mansouri-Daneshvar et al. (2015) showing the development of an intrashelf
basin surrounded by an extensive carbonate platform. Isolated build-up platforms inside the intrashelf
basin are located offshore Abu Dhabi, related to halokinesis. Compaction effect was not corrected
for the mapped thickness. Surface geology after USGS Geologic Map of the Arabian Plate (1963).
Cenomanian-Turonian Platform-Intra-shelf Basin

As a result of nappes and Semail upwarping, a period of gradual compression took place at Cenomanian,
with epeiric uplift and structural growth (Patton and O'Connor, 1988), which resulted in a complex platform-
basin physiography. The reactivation of the extension of KSA basement Amad Ridge (Stewart, 2016)
into Abu Dhabi (Figure 4), contributed in the creation of shallower water conditions, which started an
active Cenomanian carbonate factory in western offshore Abu Dhabi (Figure 5) and lasted until Turonian
(Ruwaydhah). This N-S feature was probably the main factor contributing to the basin axis change from E-
W Aptian trend to N-S position at Cenomanian (Vahrenkamp et al., 2015a).
SPE-207722-MS 5
Figure 4—a) E-W Seismic line on western Abu Dhabi with basement fault highlighted in white (possible Amad
Ridge extension) and Mishrif-Shilaif sequences interpreted in colors. The alignment of Mishrif-Shilaif western
platform boundary with the basement fault is evidencing the reactivation of this feature at Cenomanian. b)
Same seismic line as 4a) showing details of Mishrif-Shilaif sequences interpreted, c) Bouguer gravity map
(top) and Top Basement depth Map from Stewart (2016) showing Amad Ridge and East Rub’ Al-Khali basin
position in KSA, d) Shilaif-Mishrif isochore map displaying position of seismic line in Figures 4a) and 4b).
Figure 5—W-E section showing Mishrif-Shilaif composite sequences (Van Laer et al. 2019) lateral variation
from western platform into slope, intra-shelf basin in central Abu Dhabi and a slope and platform in the eastern
side. Western platform development is possibly controlled by reactivation of deep basement lineaments.
This conspicuous development and steeper margins of the western and southern Cenomanian rimmed
platform compared to the eastern rimmed platform could have also been promoted by the prevailing winds
direction. This is because the prograding direction of the western and southern platform margin would have
been coincident with dominant windward direction, generating favorable conditions for rudist build-ups
and grainstone shoals development. The possible effect of prevailing winds on rudist platforms can also
be seen in the Aptian platform development. The Lower Shuaiba platform in southwest Abu Dhabi, at the
possible windward side, is more prominent and steeper compared to the northeast margin platform (Figure
6 SPE-207722-MS
3). The leeward position of the northeastern platform could possibly explain its lower angle and higher
content of mud dominated facies (Pierson et al. 2010, Droste et al. 2010, Vahrenkamp et al. 2015a, and
Whitcomb et al. 2021).
Load and upwarping of Semail ophiolite generated partial erosion of Mishrif-Shilaif system in the
northeast (Burchette et al., 2010). The reduced thickness observed in Mishrif-Shilaif isochore map (Figure
6a) in this area is related to Mishrif-Shilaif partial erosion rather than to the existence of Shilaif basinal
facies. Partial erosion is also evidenced at southeast Abu Dhabi denoting the onset of Lekhwair-Mender
high growth (Murris, 1980; Franco et al., 2018).
Figure 6—Shilaif-Mishrif and Ruwaydhah Isochore Maps (a). Isochore map of Shilaif-Mishrif (modified from Franco et
al.,2018) combining data from Murris (1980), Pelissier et al. (1980), Craigie (2015) and van Buchem et al. (2014). It shows
prograding Mishrif platform from the west and a Shilaif basin center axis running NNE to SSW in central-western onshore
and offshore Abu Dhabi (Vahrenkamp et al.,2015) and platform slope to the east partially eroded due to load of nappes and
Semail ophiolite. Compaction effect was not corrected for the mapped thickness. (b) Isochore map of Ruwaydhah Formation
(Franco et al., 2018) combining data from Murris (1980) and Craigie et al. (2015). A similar trend of platform on the west,
and a basin center axis running NNE to SSW in the central-western onshore and offshore Abu Dhabi can be observed as
part of the rejuvenation of the previous intra-shelf basin. Compaction effect was not corrected for the mapped thickness.
In addition, this compression contributed to structural growth on some offshore halokinesis related
structures, evidenced by the development of anomalous thicker Mishrif and shallower platform facies in
western offshore fields A1, A2, A3, A4 and A5; and isolated Mishrif build-ups in northeast offshore Abu
Dhabi (Figure 6a). Conversely, no halokinetic movement is observed in A8, A9, A10, A11, A12, A13, and
eastern part of A6 and A7; leading to basinal Shilaif facies development.
With an increasing compressional effect of the nappes and Semail ophiolite loading, nascent structuration
began (Patton and O'Connor, 1988), evidenced in onshore Abu Dhabi by erosion / non-deposition on the
paleo-crest of the structures A14, A15, A16, A17, A18, A19 and Lekhwair-Mender high (Figure 6b).
Conversely, a thickening on the Falaaha syncline suggests a healthy carbonate marine factory in which
sedimentation is keeping up with available accommodation space.
At northeast Abu Dhabi, Ruwaydhah deposits are totally eroded as a consequence of a progressive bulge
growth (Franco et al., 2018). A large widespread karstification surface below Turonian unconformity (Base
Laffan) is evidencing this erosion (Burchette et al., 2010). This surface is characterized by development of
hardgrounds with ferruginous-phosphatic pisoliths, and iron-stained rip up clasts. These rip-up clasts were
derived from Mishrif limestones and are embedded at the base of the Laffan argillaceous benthic-foram
lime mudstone (Figure 7a). Seismic evidence of exposure has been identified in Abu Dhabi (Figure 7b), as
SPE-207722-MS 7
well as in neighboring Oman (Droste and Steenwinkel, 2004; Figure 7c) and Iran (Farzadi and Hesthammer,
2007; Figure 7d).
Figure 7—(a) cores showing the unconformable contact between Laffan and Mishrif formations developed over
a widespread area in northern Abu Dhabi. Soil development, coal and flint clay are principal elements indicating
exposure and subsequent transgression. (Burchette et al., 2010) (b) Variance map at base Laffan at northern Abu
Dhabi area, red arrows show channels incising the Cenomanian-Turonian platform, blue arrows show possible
sink holes and karst features (c) Variance map at Top Natih, red arrows indicate incised Cenomanian platform
by channels in northern Oman (Droste and Steenwinkel, 2004). (d) PCA (Principal Component Analysis) map
indicating sinkholes on the exposed Cenomanian Mishrif platform at Sirri field, Iran (Farzadi and Hesthammer, 2007).
Halokinetic growth offshore Abu Dhabi continued differentially, contributing to the development of
anomalous thicker Ruwaydhah shallow platform facies in A6, A20 and A4 structures.
Coniacian-Santonian
By Coniacian, with the initiation of the foreland basin, a widespread transgression took place covering the
accommodation space created by the upwarping of the northeastern Arabian margin (Patton and O'Connor,
1988; Sharland et al., 2001). As the compression progressed, deep-rooted lineaments possibly controlled the
peripheral bulge orientation (Ali and Farid, 2016), contributing to the enhancement of a NW-SE paleohigh
that separated the foredeep from the northern extension of Rub’ Al Khali basin (Ghurab syncline). Thus, the
differentiation between these areas increased. Those lineaments along with the irregular paleotopography
generated by halokinesis in the offshore influenced the sedimentation of the Coniacian-Santonian (Laffan-
Halul) succession.
The rate of subsidence and sediment supply was maximum in the northern extension of the Rub’ Al Khali
basin (Ghurab syncline) in Abu Dhabi, therefore this area presents a more complete and preserved section
with two well defined shallowing-upward sequences (Figure 8).
8 SPE-207722-MS
Figure 8—SW-NE well section flattened at Base Campanian. Two shallowing upward cycles are defined at well
26 (black arrows) inside northern Rub’ Al Khali basin. The lowermost sequence is onlapping on the flanks of
growing structures (blue arrows). Fiqa Formation is unconformably deposited over Laffan-Halul sequences.
The lowest sequence is not present outside Ghurab syncline as it is onlapping the flanks of pre-existing
structures. This interval is composed of non-marine ostracod clays, carbonaceous muds, and freshwater
limestones developed in paleo-depressions (Alsharhan and Nairn, 2003).
The uppermost sequence includes the most frequently known Laffan-Halul formations and covers most
of Abu Dhabi, with partial to total erosion on actively growing structures (Figure 9a). Differential partial
erosion is observed at onshore structures as western structures A21, A22, A18 show less erosion in
comparison to A19/A23 and eastern structures A17, A16, A15. Partial erosion was also identified in offshore
halokinesis related structures A4, A24 and A6. Finally, total erosion in A14 and Lekhwair-Mender area is
evidencing a higher structural growth.
Figure 9—(a) Isochore map of Laffan evidencing differential paleostructural growth and synclines development onshore and
offshore Abu Dhabi. Compaction effect was not corrected for the mapped thickness. (b) Laffan-Halul gross paleoenvironment
distribution map showing the development of non-marine ostracod clays and carbonaceous muds, Laffan transgressive
marine shales, and shallow water limestones (wackestone-packstone) possibly associated to a NE-SW trend paleohigh. Salt
related paleohighs offshore Abu Dhabi and neighboring countries are evidenced by shallow water patch reefs development.
SPE-207722-MS 9
Concurrently with paleohigh growth, paleodepression continued to develop at onshore synclines

(Ghurab, Falaaha, and Hamra) and offshore salt withdrawal synclines with thicker Coniacian-Santonian
interval deposited in these areas.
By Santonian?, these paleohighs were covered, the sea became less restricted and an active carbonate
factory began to take place. Halul limestones deposition is interfingered with Laffan shales, thus the
diachronicity of Halul-Laffan contact (stippled green marker in Figure 8). Deposition continued in a
gradually shallowing marine setting and culminated at the top in a low to moderate energy carbonate shelf.
This shallow water, moderate energy Halul limestone facies took place predominantly in north-
northeastern Abu Dhabi, following a NE-SW trend on A19, A26, A27, A28 and A7 structures (Figure
9b). This trend is possibly related to an active paleohigh developed as a result of Cenomanian-Coniacian
upwarping, generating favorable conditions for a healthy carbonate factory. This carbonate factory was
also present offshore at paleohighs generated by halokinesis, evidenced by small isolated rudist banks and
miliolids packstones developed at A24, A29, A4, A30, A31, A32, A33, A34, A35 and A36 structures
(ADNOC internal proprietary reports).
Further northeast of the NE-SW lineament, the Laffan-Halul transgressive-regressive cycle is thinly
developed. Thin Halul limestone is fine-grained and tight facies, passing to an outer shelf low energy lime
wackestone. To the south of the NE-SW lineament, Halul limestone thins, and the predominant lithofacies
becomes argillaceous for the Laffan-Halul transgressive-regressive cycle.
Campanian
As the Hawasina thrust sheets and Semail ophiolite continued loading and downwarping in the northeast of
the Arabian Plate (Searle, 2007) in conjunction with a possible rising in relative sea level (Harris, 1984), a
westward transgression took place during Campanian.
Since Campanian was a period of maximum structural growth affected by the transtension caused during
northward Indian block drift and obduction of Masirah ophiolite (Johnson et al., 2005, Filbrandt et al.,
2006), the resultant paleotopography created a very complex sediment distribution.
Analogous to Coniacian-Santonian, the area located at the northern extension of the Rub’ Al Khali basin,
was again subjected to higher subsidence and sedimentation rate, showing the most complete Campanian
section. In this area, three 3rd order shallowing upward sequences are present (Figure 10). However,
variations took place in comparison with the foredeep from Early to Late Campanian, which will be
subsequently elaborated.
The first sequence starts at the base with transgressive deeper-water argillaceous facies developed onto
a dominantly shallow water shelf carbonate. It is composed of dark grey to black argillaceous shale, in
part rich in glauconite and phosphate nodules (ADNOC internal proprietary reports). In southwestern Abu
Dhabi, bordering the rising eastern Qatar arch, the rate of subsidence was slower. Slower subsidence resulted
in shallow water depth, with deposition of argillaceous limestones prior to exposure at Qatar arch.
The regressive phase is composed of interbedded medium grey marls and shales, to light grey mudstones-
wackestones with occasional light brown fractured and re-worked wackestones to miliolid packstones on
the crest of growing structures. This regressive section is mainly present in the current onshore synclines
and in the foredeep, where the rate of sedimentation was able to keep up with the subsidence to fill the
accommodation space.
Onshore structures continued growing at this time, resulting in minimum preservation with partial to total
erosion. On the eastern structures, Campanian erosion continued to be more important than in the western
onshore Abu Dhabi structures leading to strong and total erosion observed in A14 and Lekhwair-Mender
area (Figure 12a). Northern onshore structures show an increase in growth in comparison with Coniacian-
Santonian time.
10 SPE-207722-MS
Figure 10—SW-NE well section flattened at Base Simsima. Three shallowing upward cycles are defined at well 26
(black arrows) at Campanian interval. The lowest sequence defined at well 26 is one of the major transgressive
events in the realm of deep sea with pelagic sedimentation. This event partially covers the active growing structures,
and in particular, the foredeep area had higher rate of subsidence and sedimentation in comparison with northern
extension of the Rub’ Al-Khali basin. The two uppermost sequences are truncated at onshore structures, which
are at the peak of their structural growth (blue arrows) and are onlapping the flanks of preexisting structures.
In the offshore, partial erosion on halokinesis related structures took place irregularly. Other structures
developed shallow water limestones in contrast with the pelagic marls and argillaceous shales rich in
glauconite and phosphate nodules encountered in the surrounding wells, evidencing active growth.
In the foredeep to the east and northeast, the formation passes gradually to basinal marl and shale with
abundant planktonic forams. This section thickens considerably, filling the accommodation space in the
foredeep created in front of the growing Oman Mountains (Carminati et al., 2020). Further east and closer to
the Oman Mountains, the shale content increases as the Oman Mountains were rising. This is coincident with
a slight differentiation in kerogen type, with more terrigenous components close to the Oman Mountains
side compared to the foredeep area to the west (ADNOC internal proprietary reports).
The second and third sequences start with interbedded medium to dark grey marls, shales, and nodular
argillaceous light grey mudstones and wackestones, which cover with high variability in thickness the
actively growing structures in Abu Dhabi. In southwestern Abu Dhabi, once again, as Qatar arch was still
rising, shallow water depth was present leading to a transition to argillaceous limestones prior to exposure
on the Qatar arch. The regressive phases of these sequences are composed of nodular argillaceous skeletal
wackestones, clean shelly or chalky limestones and light grey marls, and dark grey shales. Dominated by
dark brown medium crystalline dolomites with some pyrite, there are also occasionally rudists or other shell
debris, bioclastic packstones and some corals (Figure 11) present near the top.
SPE-207722-MS 11
Figure 11—Light buff skeletal wackestone. There is a large concentration of gastropods and corals. The fossils
standout more clearly because the shell walls are dolomitized and darker in color. (GP = Gastropods, Co = Coral)
Maximum structural growth occurred in Late Campanian, enhanced by the E-W transtension caused
from northern Indian drift (Johnson et al., 2005, Filbrandt et al., 2006). This structural growth was variable,
which caused partial to total erosion over different structures. This highly variable erosion/non-deposition
on the structures denotes a differential growth among them (Ali and Farid, 2016), regardless if they were
onshore or offshore salt related structures (Figure 12b). On the eastern onshore area, Campanian erosion
continues to be more prominent than in the western onshore Abu Dhabi structures, leading to strong and
total erosion. In the offshore, some active structures developed shallow water limestones possibly related
to an active carbonate factory.
Figure 12—(a) Isochore map of Early Campanian (lowest T-R cycle) showing paleohighs and irregular partial
erosion-non deposition. At the northeast Abu Dhabi, Fiqa passes into Gurpi facies, filling the accommodation
space created by downwarping at the front of Oman Mountains. Compaction effect was not corrected for the
mapped thickness. (b) Isochore map of Late Campanian shows Paleohigh and irregular partial erosion-non
deposition. A positive NW-SE lineament separates the foredeep basin fill from the sedimentation on Ghurab
and Falaaha synclines that exhibit their maximum rate of subsidence and sedimentation in contrast with the
foredeep. As the rate of subsidence and sedimentation decreased in the foredeep, it exhibits less increment in
thickness compared with early Campanian time. Compaction effect was not corrected for the mapped thickness.
12 SPE-207722-MS
It is remarkable to notice a peak of activity at NW-SE lineament where the paleo-highs took place,
denoting its maximum expression in terms of erosion and disconnecting the S-SW area from the foredeep
area. This lineament is inferred to be at least active since Turonian time (Ruwaydhah eastern erosion, Figure
6b). However, its reactivation could be as early as Cenomanian time, where the Shilaif basin center axis
seems to show a curving with two opposite dip directions at a place around A28-A7 area (Vahrenkamp et
al., 2015a) (Figure 6a). The northern part of Shilaif basin seems to dip north from A28-A7, meanwhile the
southern part seems to dip towards Ghurab syncline.
This lineament adds further complexity during Campanian, affecting the subsidence at both sides of it.
The rate of subsidence and sediment supply during early Campanian was higher at the foredeep than the
Ghurab and Falaaha synclines located south of this NW-SE flexural bulge, giving an anomalous thickness
of 1600ft in the foredeep compared to 700ft at the synclines (Figure 12a).
Conversely, the rate of subsidence and sediment supply during Late Campanian was higher in the
synclines as they exhibit their maximum rate of subsidence and sedimentation, giving an anomalous
thickness of 1500ft in the synclines compared to 1200ft in the foredeep (Figure 12b).
The rate of subsidence decrease in the foredeep during the Late Campanian is also evidenced by its
lithological composition as the formation passes gradually to marls, marly limestones and only subordinated
shales.
This contrasting behavior could possibly be explained associating the accommodation space in the
foredeep to the downwarping related to the emplacement of the thrust sheets and Semail ophiolite loading
(Robertson and Searle, 1990), and the accommodation space in the synclines more influenced by the east
transpression associated to the northward drift of India and Masirah ophiolite emplacement (Johnson et al.,
2005; Filbrandt et al., 2006).
Maastrichtian
Transition from Late Campanian to Maastrichtian is marked by a decreased rate of subsidence and
corresponding sedimentation. Slower subsidence created a shallower sea where Simsima Maastrichtian
limestones began transgressing and onlapping pre-existing structures.
Seismic reflectors imply the base Simsima onlaps against the top Fiqa unconformity (Ali et al., 2016). The
exposure surface at top Fiqa time could have created grain-rich regressive deposits transported downslope of
major structures. One example observed on the western flank of A14 field (Figure 13), with others possibly
on the structure flanks around Ghurab and Falaaha synclines, and foredeep located to the east of the NW-
SE peripheral bulge.
Eastern of this bulge, in the foredeep, even though Maastrichtian was characterized by a return of
shallower sea in response to a decrease in subsidence, this was accompanied by a decrease in sediment
production and sediment supply, contributing to differentiation of a basin with predominant marls,
mudstones, wackestones and limited amount of clay.
The subsequent regressive phase was deposited over most of Abu Dhabi, excluding the eastern foredeep
area. This phase is characterized by an increase in calcareous benthonic forams, burrowed to rarely cross-
stratified Lepidorbitoides-Orbitoides packstone-grainstone, dasyclad wackestone-packstone with echinoids
and corals, to rudist floatstones with skeletal debris deposited in an inner neritic environment (Hozayen et
al., 2008; Farooq et al., 2017).
As structural pulses and/or minor order sea level fluctuations affected this interval, different levels of
exposure-submergence occurred depending on the differential magnitude of growth for each structure.
Characteristics of the complex structural growth developed as hardground surfaces, rhizoliths, oxidation/
reduction halos, caliche clasts, paleosoils, karstification (Farooq et al., 2020) (Figure 14). The presence of
these features varies in the stratigraphic position according to each differential structural growth and in a
NW-SE trend area around the peripheral bulge (Figure 15). However, they are more concentrated at the top,
near the possible 3rd order SB.
SPE-207722-MS 13
Figure 13—(a) W-E type well section flattened at Base Umm Er Radhuma. Composed of one complete 3rd order sequence
and an incomplete transgressive cycle interrupted at the top by a new flooding event marking the K-T boundary. The lowest
3rd order transgressive phase defined at well 26 is partially onlapping the flank of onshore structures and completely
onlapping A14 flank. (b) W-E amplitude blended with instantaneous phase seismic section displaying Simsima sequences.
The partial to total onlap of the first 3rd order transgressive phase from west to east is evidenced by the seismic reflector
terminations (onlaps) onto the Top Fiqa-Base Simsima sequence boundary. Additionally, possible falling sea level deposits
(LS?) have been identified on the flank of A14, associated to the exposure surface that took place at Top Fiqa time.
Figure 14—(a) shows a typical hardground surface (HG) evidencing possible exposure/submergence.
Thinly bedded dolowackestone/dolomudstone facies represent deposition in shallow to emergent
lagoons, indicating a new transgressive phase above (last incomplete transgressive cycle). (b)
exhibits dissolution features caused by karsting near the top of the 3rd order regressive phase. (c)
exhibits Iron-stained brecciation evidencing exposure near the top of the 3rd order regressive phase.
14 SPE-207722-MS
Figure 15—(a) Isochore map of Maastrichtian, Simsima-Gurpi, shows decreasing paleohigh development and
irregular partial erosion-non deposition. A positive NW-SE lineament separates the foredeep basin fill from the
sedimentation on the north extension of the Rub’ Al-Khali basin. Compaction effect was not corrected for the
mapped thickness. (b) Maastrichtian, Simsima-Gurpi gross paleoenvironment distribution map at 3rd order T-
R sequence shows development of outer shelf, proximal mid-shelf, upper mid-shelf, and inner shelf facies.
Subsequently, a new Maastrichtian transgression occurred composed of open marine nodular-burrowed

Loftusia wackestones, and deep lagoonal Loftusia facies with less diverse and abundant forams (Hozayen
et al., 2008). This interval is characterized on logs by very high GR reading, generally lignitic shales,
intercalated with limestones-dolomites. Occasionally, some anhydritic dolomites developed in a lagoonal-
sabkha environment on the back bulge. As these shales disappear, replaced by a set of northeast prograding
packstone shoals in the area where a bulge is present, marks a possible reestablishment of a subsidence
pulse in the foredeep (Figure 10). This pattern signifies a new basinward shift with final exposure, with no
evidence of substantial erosion at the K-T boundary.
As a result of the beginning of a quiescent structural growth period in the Maastrichtian, onshore
structures like A22, A18, A19 and A23 show minimum erosion. A positive NW-SE lineament is still
separating the foredeep basin fill from the sedimentation on the north extension of the Rub’ Al-Khali basin.
It is at this position where low angle clinoforms develop at the platform edge. Coincident with a decrease
in structural growth, Ghurab and Falaaha synclines diminished their subsidence and sedimentation rate,
reducing the contrast with the foredeep compared with Campanian.
The limit between Cretaceous and Paleogene in the basin is intricate and therefore difficult to identify
based on wireline log character alone. The combined effects of a major sea-level drop during the Late
Maastrichtian, followed by a sea-level rise, expanded the oxygen minimum zone leading to stagnant low
oxygen conditions. This low oxygen conditions resulted in K-T faunal break and were exacerbated by the
Deccan volcanism and the Chicxulub bolide that heavily impacted the water chemistry of the Neotethys sea
(Keller et al., 1995). This faunal break, combined with an increased Eocene sedimentation rate, especially
in the Foredeep area, are critical elements to identify the K-T boundary (Figure 17).
SPE-207722-MS 15
Late Paleocene – Early Eocene

During Early Paleocene, as the western area adjacent to the foredeep remained exposed, no deposition is
recorded. An exception to this occurred on the deepest Foredeep area where very thin Early Paleocene
basinal marls and shales accumulated.
At Late Paleocene - Early Eocene, a rise in global sea level started (Haq et al., 2005). Two transgressive-
regressive sequences can be observed in the Umm Er Radhuma-Rus-Pabdeh Interval (Figure 16 and Figure
17).
Figure 16—Southwest-Northeast section flattened to Base UER-Top Simsima displaying identified sequences from Late
Paleocene to Miocene and their compositional variation from southwestern platform intothe northeastern foredeep basin.
Figure 17—SW-NE Seismic line showing two main sequences from Base UER to Top Rus. The
prograding geometries in the lower sequence correspond to Umm Er Radhuma carbonate platform.
Conversely, the platform in the second sequence is mainly aggradational. Mid Eocene onlaps (yellow
arrows) over Top Rus mark the sequence boundary generated during Ypresian sea level drop.
16 SPE-207722-MS
The first sequence sedimentation started in the foredeep with mud-supported sediments, planktonic
forams, rare sponge spicules and radiolarians (Alsharhan and Nairn, 2003). Towards the west, a platform
margin developed along the NW-SE inherited bulge where wackestones and minor packstones, subjected to
dolomitization process were deposited. This dolomitization process masked the existent fauna and creates
a challenge on identifying the K-T boundary based on well logs. On the back bulge and covering most
of Abu Dhabi, marls and shales were deposited as part of this transgression, frequently called base Umm
Er Radhuma shales (Sharland et al., 2001). As sea level continued rising and the carbonate production
increased, a prograding Umm Er Radhuma carbonate platform began along the NW-SE trend, differentiated
from the wackestones and mudstones deposited in the Foredeep (Figure 16 and Figure 17).
Covering the Early Eocene (Umm Er Radhuma) platform a new transgression occurred with mudstones
and wackestones covering the preceding platform. As the transgression continued, development of a
younger aggrading platform took place. This platform development ended at a late highstand shallow sea,
which evolved in a sabkha environment where Rus anhydrites were precipitated intercalated with limestones
(Sharland et al., 2001) (Figure 17).
Notably, once again, a differentiation between the southern synclines and the Foredeep occurred,
where the northern Rub’ Al Khali basin and Falaaha syncline exhibit their maximum in subsidence and
sedimentation rate in contrast with the eastern foredeep which preserved mudstones, wackestones deprived
from clay content and probably subjected to anoxic conditions (Figure 18a).
Figure 18—(a) Base UER-Rus/Pabdeh (Late Paleocene-Early Eocene) isochore map showing subsidence and
sedimentation rate variation between the southern synclines and the foredeep basin. The prograding Umm Er
Radhuma platform is evidenced to the west of the foredeep basin. Non-deposition/partial erosion is observed in
the Lekhwair-Mender area. Compaction effect was not corrected for the mapped thickness. (b) Base UER-Rus/
Pabdeh gross paleonvironment distribution map displaying the extension of the inner shelf, the position of the
prograding shelf margin and the foredeep. The post-Ypresian calciturbidites most probably derive from incipient
uplift of Oman Mountains to the east. Calciturbidite fans included on Dubai side are after Hertig et al. (1994).
At the end of this period, a subsequent sea level drop exposed large part of the platform creating a
karstified surface (Fava, 2018). Additionally, an increase in subsidence rate in the Foredeep at Mid-Eocene
probably associated to a period of slow uplift (Hempton 1987), generated slope instability on the western
flank of the Oman Mountains. The synchronism between the reactivation of the foredeep basin and eustatic
sea level falls of great amplitude was the ideal condition for calciclastic turbidites fans that accumulated
(Hertig et al., 1994; Fava, 2018) next to the western Oman Mountains ending at the Foredeep basin axis
(Figure 18b).
SPE-207722-MS 17
Mid-Late Eocene
At Mid-Late Eocene, after a pronounced sea level drop and the deposition of calciclastic turbidite fans in
the foredeep, a new transgressive event took place filling and onlapping the Early Eocene (Rus-Pabdeh)
shelf margin. Subsidence was at its maximum during this time (Sharland et al. 2001), along with the higher
rate of sedimentation filling the Foredeep with clays and calciturbidites coming from the western margin
of the Omani Mountains.
In the inner platform, west of the Foredeep, two transgressive-regressive sequences can be observed
covering Dammam-Pabdeh interval (Figure 16). The lower Dammam-Pabdeh T-R sequence shows a NW-
SE inherited prograding pattern contrasting with the aggrading nature of the upper Dammam-Pabdeh T-R
sequence, where both of them abut towards the Foredeep margin (Figure 19).
Figure 19—Dammam/Pabdeh (Mid-Late Eocene) isochore map showing a foredeep in the northeast and an inner
platform to the west. As opposed to Base UER-Rus/Pabdeh map (Figure 18), no differentiation of the southern
synclines (Ghurab and Faalaha) is observed. Non-deposition/Partial erosion is observed at Lekhwair Mender
area and to the west related to Qatar Arch. Compaction effect was not corrected for the mapped thickness.
Contrasting with Late Paleocene - Early Eocene, where the rate of sedimentation was insufficient and
enhanced the differentiation of the Foredeep; at Mid Eocene, possibly as Omani Mountains developed
(Hempton 1987, Hansman et al. 2017), an increment of sedimentation occurred at the foredeep, coevally
with a possible increase in subsidence due to loading. This probable increase in subsidence in the
foredeep diverges from an observed decrease in subsidence at the Ghurab and Falaaha synclines, equalizing
thicknesses in the foredeep with the previous higher subsidence areas in onshore Abu Dhabi.
Finally, a younger structural growth phase occurred at A21, A38, A6 and A25 structures following a
N-S trend (Figure 19). These structures were only slightly affected by the Cenomanian to Maastrichtian
structuration and possibly, at Mid-Eocene they started a new structuration that apexes at Miocene, coincident
with the acme of Zagros orogeny (Murris, 1980; Sharland et al., 2001; Ziegler, 2001; van Buchem et al.,
2010b).
Oligocene
In the Late Eocene-Oligocene, the Neotethys closure and a sedimentation rate which probably outpaced the
rate of subsidence, resulted in shallow marine environment conditions. The southwestern accommodation
space was initially destroyed due to thermal uplift (Sharland et al. 2001) resulting in Asmari Oligocene
carbonate platform onlapping the Eocene Dammam inner platform (Figure 16). Asmari platforms represent
18 SPE-207722-MS
the culminating episode of the long-lived progradational carbonate platform system initiated in the
Maastrichtian, which ceased with the Neotethys closure and subsequent collision during the Miocene
(Homke et al., 2004, van Buchem et al., 2010b)
As the northern continental margin of Arabia was converging with Eurasia, a subsidence increment
occurred at the very northeastern margin, not present in Abu Dhabi area. Once again, Oligocene
sedimentation started in the Foredeep with a basal transgressive sub-horizontal Asmari reflector, onlapping
and displaying a backstepping configuration towards the southwest. It is followed by NW-SE prograding
clinoform stratal patterns of bioclastic shaly limestones, made up of mud to wackestones rich in nummulites,
echinoids, bivalves and ostracods. These clinoforms created a low-angle regressive platform, where the
margin developed at Abu Dhabi – Dubai border. To the east of this boundary shales and marls interbedded
with thin and tight argillaceous limestones, with possible isolated porous pinnacle reefs, were developed.
Conversely, along and to the west of this NW-SE trend, barrier-reef facies, back-reef or lagoon facies
and fore-reef (shelf-slope facies) (Figure 20), with marls and shales interbedded with pelletal wackestones
characterized by poor visible porosities, were deposited.
Figure 20—Asmari/Pabdeh (Oligocene) isochore and gross paleoenvironment distribution maps

displaying a foredeep basin to the northeast. To the west, the shelf break of Asmari platform
is developed. Regional thinning of the sequence towards the west can be observed until total
erosion/non-deposition occurs. Compaction effect was not corrected for the mapped thickness.
In some cases, on growing and preexisting paleorelief, Asmari limestone porosity and permeability
was enhanced with dolomitization via reflux diagenesis on emergent limestones. However, non-emerged
lagoonal Asmari limestones remained unaltered and serve as selective barriers or buffers for hydrocarbon
migration out of the basin.
Interpretation of the stratigraphic transition into the Lower Miocene Gachsaran is difficult due to a
progressive increase of shale between marlstone and shaly bioclastic. This event might be correlated to
a global sea level rise observed at the end of the Oligocene (Haq et al., 1988; Miller et al., 2005) and
a possible intermittent retreat of the sea which led to the precipitation of several lowstand salt wedges
prior the complete retreat of the remnant Tethyan sea at Aquitanian-Burdigalian (J. Dolson, personal
communication).
SPE-207722-MS 19
Late Oligocene (Chattian)-Miocene

At the very end of Oligocene, the sea retreated completely from the Asmari shelf where subaerial exposure
took place and the Hormuz strait partially closed. This led to a progressive confinement and brine
concentration due to evaporation of the remnant Tethyan sea. The resultant dilution-evaporation at late
Oligocene-early Miocene, possibly associated to sea level rise and fall, led to a pattern of marlstones overlain
by anhydrite and capped by massive halite bed precipitated strictly in the eastern Abu Dhabi-Dubai Foredeep
area (Figure 16 and Figure 21).
Figure 21—Late Oligocene (Chattian)-Miocene isochore map displaying increased thickness in the foredeep
basin as marlstones overlain by anhydrite and capped by massive bed halite precipitated strictly in the
foredeep at eastern Abu Dhabi-Dubai area. Compaction effect was not corrected for the mapped thickness.
The marine microfauna preserved in marlstone and claystone indicates that at the onset of each
depositional sequence the basin was connected to the open sea (TST) with a vertical transition to anhydrite
and halite. Presence of evaporates suggests that the basin became disconnected from the sea, leading to
saline to hypersaline conditions (LST). This pattern is recognized in wells and seismic at late Oligocene-
early Miocene by a sharp base onlap surface with a flat subhorizontal halite wedge pinching out towards
the southwestern bulge (BEICIP-FRANLAB-IFP 2019 ADNOC internal communication) (Figure 16).
Subsequently, the overlaying sequences show a backstepping configuration with onlaps migrating
southwest. At this time, sedimentation was not restricted to the Foredeep area and subsequently covered the
exposed bulge, and back bulge in southwestern Abu Dhabi.
As the Red Sea opened, clastics derived from the Arabian shield were deposited and interfingering with
limestones in a shallow marine platform over southwestern Abu Dhabi (Sharland et al., 2001; Taher et al.,
2019). A recurrent shallowing upward pattern is observed where primary sedimentation was dominated
by carbonates on a shallow marine platform. Mud supported facies with selenite pseudomorphs and wave
ripple structures, are indicative of a low-energy, shallow marine setting. The shoal and inner platform were
deposited as grain supported carbonates. Towards the end of each individual cycle, at maximum sea level
drop, exposure and sabkha development took over. In these environments sulfates started to precipitate from
phreatic water, resulting in extensive anhydrite cementation, masking the original rock fabric (Khan et al.,
2019).
20 SPE-207722-MS
Discussion
Onshore structural growth history
The detailed mapping of the Aptian to Miocene sequences was utilized to estimate the cumulative structural
growth of major onshore fields by calculating the differential thickness between crest and flanks of each
structure (Ali and Farid, 2016) (Figure 22).
Figure 22—Cumulative growth history for Onshore fields. Fields located on eastern wing side (A14, A15, and A16) show
higher cumulative structural growth in comparison with fields located on western wing (A21, A18, and A22) and north
(A19 and A23). The first structural growth is observed at Cenomanian-Turonian with the maximum structural growth
at Campanian. Most of the structures show a quiescence period from Maastrichtian to Miocene, apart from A14 field.
A younger period of structural growth took place at Miocene time where A21 structure exhibits its maximum growth
rate. Note that structural growth Pre-Miocene time led to a regional N-S tilting which switched to S-N after Miocene time.
A first period of structural growth started at Cenomanian-Turonian for onshore structures A14, A15, A16,
A17, A18 and A19, coincident with the thrusted nappes and Semail ophiolites upwarping on the northeastern
margin of the Arabian Plate (Robertson and Searle, 1990). This is evidenced by erosion/non-deposition of
Ruwaydhah Formation observed in Figure 6b.
This structural growth continued through Coniacian-Santonian with maximum growth during the
Campanian. This is evidenced by increased erosion/non-deposition on the crest of the Onshore structures
(Figure 12). The northern area of the present day A18, A15, A16 structures show the highest erosion
(paleocrest position), exhibiting a regional southward tilting.
At early Maastrichtian the structural growth became stagnant in most onshore Abu Dhabi structures apart
from A14 structure, where this quiescence started at base Dammam time. This negligible structural growth
persisted from Paleocene to Mid-Late Eocene, ending when growth resumed with a Miocene acme which
was accompanied by northward tilting. This event generated a decoupling between existing paleocrests and
the present day crestal areas, triggering possible remigration of hydrocarbons and/or preservation of paleo-
oil water contacts depending on diagenetic processes. These diagenetic processes are controlled by charge
timing, early porosity/permeability preservation in the paleo oil-column, and an increased deterioration in
the paleowater leg. Additionally, these processes affect the reservoir properties distribution in producing
hydrocarbon fields (Oswald et al. 1995).
The understanding of these processes is of key importance for new hydrocarbon accumulation
prospectivity. Possible paleo-oil water contact preservation opens the opportunity for diagenetic traps
configuration, especially in undrilled pre-Miocene paleostructures.
SPE-207722-MS 21
Offshore halokinetic movements

The timing of structuration initiated at Turonian observed for onshore differs from the evidence of
halokinetic movement offshore Abu Dhabi, as documented at Late Jurassic and possibly as old as Middle
to Late Triassic.
Halokinesis during the Aptian was observed through development of isolated Shuaiba build-up platforms,
mainly in western and central Abu Dhabi (Figure 1 to 3). Structural growth continued in halokinetic
related structures during Albian?-Cenomanian. During the Turonian, this halokinetic growth continued
differentially contributing to the development of anomalous thicker Ruwaydhah shallower platform facies
in A6, A20 and A4 structures (Figure 6b).
Continued Coniacian-Campanian salt movement is noted with thicker anomalous rudist banks and
miliolids packstones of Halul Formation developed as patch reefs on some offshore structures (Figure 9b).
Further indications of halokinetic movements were identified in the onlaps at early Campanian, erosion
at Late Campanian, and the anomalous Late Campanian thicker shallow water bioclastic lime wackestone
and mudstones.
Conclusions
The interplay of Arabian Plate scale tectonic events and reactivation of basement lineaments has been key
to characterizing the genesis and distribution of successive basins present in Abu Dhabi from Aptian to
Miocene.
Arabian Plate tectonics and Basin Architecture

Two intra-shelf basins have developed during this period: Aptian and Albian?-Cenomanian intra-shelf
basins. Evidence of the onset of compressional regime associated with emplacement of thrust sheets of
Tethyan rocks from NE, and final ophiolite obduction, have been observed in the later one (e.g., western
Mishrif platform controlled by reactivation of Amad Ridge extension into Abu Dhabi and northeastern
platform erosion).
A major change in basin configuration started at Turonian time as the NE compression progressed (Patton
and O'Connor, 1988). This originated a bulge evidenced by Ruwaydhah erosion and a foredeep basin to
the east initiated at Coniacian, which reactivated at Late Campanian when major structuration of onshore
structures took place. This was triggered by eastern transpression related to Masirah ophiolite obduction
during India drift.
Lastly, the Mid-Late Eocene uplift of Oman Mountains and the closure of the Neotethys at Oligocene-
Miocene, as consequence of Arabia-Eurasia convergence are evidenced by increased subsidence and
sedimentation rate in the foredeep (Mid-Late Eocene Pabdeh). Sedimentation continued with subsequent
deposition of massive evaporites due to structural narrowing of the foredeep (Oligocene-Miocene
Gachsaran)
Structural Growth History

Reconstruction of major Abu Dhabi structures growth evolution was possible with detailed mapping of
the depositional sequences coeval with major structuration periods. This understanding has fundamental
applications such as new hydrocarbon accumulation prospectivity (paleo-oil water contact preservation),
and characterizing reservoir properties distribution in producing hydrocarbon fields (diagenetic processes
controlled by paleostructures and not present day-structural closure).
Acknowledgements
We acknowledge many discussions with Salem Al Hammami, Ahmed Taher, Abdulla Al Kobaisi, Nicholas
Whitcomb, Pepe Guevara, and other colleagues (oil industry and academia) that have advanced our
22 SPE-207722-MS
understanding on the topic of this paper. We are grateful for the permission granted by our management
to allow us to publish this paper.
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Regional Tectonics To Basin Fill Architecture From Aptian Shuaiba FM To Miocene Fars GP of Abu Dhabi

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Regional Tectonics to Basin Fill Architecture from Aptian Shuaiba Fm to Miocene

Conference Paper · December 2021

Bernardo Franco Maria Agustina Celentano

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Regional Tectonics to Basin Fill Architecture from Aptian Shuaiba Fm to

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Cenomanian-Turonian Platform-Intra-shelf Basin

Concurrently with paleohigh growth, paleodepression continued to develop at onshore synclines

Subsequently, a new Maastrichtian transgression occurred composed of open marine nodular-burrowed

Late Paleocene – Early Eocene

Figure 20—Asmari/Pabdeh (Oligocene) isochore and gross paleoenvironment distribution maps

Late Oligocene (Chattian)-Miocene

Offshore halokinetic movements

Arabian Plate tectonics and Basin Architecture

Structural Growth History

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