In August 2019, Esh El Mellaha successfully tested the Rabeh North 1 new field wildcat in the West Esh El Mellaha (Dev) block, Gulf of Suez Basin. The well encountered oil in the Upper Cretaceous Matulla and Duwi formations.  The well which was spudded on 17 June 2019 reached TD in the Paleozoic basement at 2,136 m.  The West Esh El Mellaha (Dev) block is operated by Esh El Mellaha, a JV between EGPC (50%) and Lukoil (50%) since September 2001. It covers an area of 47 sq km and includes 2 discoveries (Wadi El Sahl North 1 and Tanan 1) and 3 producing fields (Rabeh, Rabeh East and Tawoos), all found between 1997 and 2000.
North Rabeh 1X nfw (Eshpetco = Lukoil 25%, Tharwa 25% and EGPC 50%, carried) in W. Esh El Mallaha block, oil discovery.