Ashtart Offshore Oil Field

The Ashtart Offshore Oil Field is a significant hydrocarbon reserve located in the Gulf of Gabes, approximately 60 kilometres off the coast of Tunisia. Discovered in 1971 by the French company Elf Aquitaine, the field began production in 1973 and quickly became a cornerstone of Tunisia's domestic oil supply. At its peak in the late 1970s, production reached approximately 30,000 barrels per day (bbl/d), though output has since declined to around 12,000 bbl/d as of 2020. The field operates at a water depth of 60 metres, utilising 12 platforms and 18 producing wells. Estimated total recoverable reserves were initially placed at 100 million barrels, with remaining reserves currently estimated at 40 million barrels. The field is operated by the Tunisian state-owned company Entreprise Tunisienne d'Activités Pétrolières (ETAP). Ashtart has played a crucial role in reducing Tunisia's dependence on imported oil, providing a substantial portion of the country's crude production. However, declining output and aging infrastructure pose challenges for future extraction. The field's economic impact extends to employment and local industries in the Gabes region.

Nearby cities

Sfax

The most important industrial and commercial center in southern Tunisia.

Bau

Bau is an important settlement in the Sudanese state of Region BN.

Ad-Damazin

Ad-Damazin is the capital of the Region BN state in Sudan.

Ar-Rusairis

Ar-Rusairis is an important settlement in the Sudanese state of Region BN.

🗺️

Mezraya

Popular coastal resort on the island of Djerba in Tunisia with fine sand and clear turquoise waters.

El Haddada

El Haddada is a charming coastal village on Djerba island, offering serene beaches.

Midoun

The second largest city on the island of Djerba, known for its lively markets.

Djerba

A sun-drenched island featuring whitewashed villages, ancient traditions, and stunning sandy beaches.

Ghardaia

Ghardaia is a coastal area on the island of Djerba, known for its pristine beaches and excellent kitesurfing spots.

El Groa

El Groa is a charming coastal village on Djerba island, known for its tranquil atmosphere, picturesque landscapes, and the beautiful Sidi…

Kurmuk

Kurmuk is an important settlement in the Sudanese state of Region BN.

History & landmarks

Sfax City Hall

The Sfax City Hall is a striking neo-Moorish style building with an elegant facade and a central tower.

Dar Jellouli

A magnificent traditional residence in Sfax with rich decoration of Andalusian tiles and wood carvings.

Kasbah of Sfax

A traditional Islamic fortress that formed an important part of the defense lines of the historic port city of Sfax.

Borj el Kebir

This massive fortress in Houmt Souk was built in the 15th century to protect the island of Djerba from pirate attacks.

El Ghriba Synagogue

The oldest surviving synagogue in Africa on the island of Djerba is a major pilgrimage site for Jewish believers.

More places

Port of Sfax

A major multipurpose port serving the industrial and commercial demands of central and southern Tunisia.

Thyna Industrial Zone

An expansive industrial area near Sfax accommodating a diverse range of light and heavy manufacturing enterprises.

Medina of Sfax

One of the best-preserved medieval Islamic old towns, surrounded by massive city walls dating back to the 9th century.

Skhira Oil Terminal

A vital maritime terminal exclusively dedicated to the storage and export of crude oil and refined petroleum products.

Er Roseires Region

Agricultural region around the Roseires Dam.

🗺️

Miskar Offshore Gas Field

A major offshore natural gas production facility in the Gulf of Gabes, supplying domestic power plants.

🗺️

Al Jurf Offshore Field

Al Jurf is an offshore oil field near the Tunisian border, operated by international consortia.

Kerkenna Islands

An archipelago off the coast of Sfax.