Petroleum Geology Fundamentals
| 29 June – 03 July 2026, Abu Dhabi | 16 – 20 Nov. 2026, Abu Dhabi |
COURSE OVERVIEW:
Petroleum Geology is the fundamental study of how geological processes combine to create, move, and store hydrocarbons within the Earth's crust. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the "Petroleum System" concept, emphasizing the critical timing and spatial relationships between various geological elements. Participants will explore the origin of organic matter, the chemical transformation of kerogen into oil and gas, and the physical forces that drive hydrocarbon migration from source rocks to reservoirs.
The coverage includes an in-depth analysis of the primary elements: Source, Reservoir, Seal, and Trap. Attendees will study the different types of sedimentary basins and the tectonic settings that favor hydrocarbon accumulation. The course highlights the importance of sedimentology and stratigraphy in defining reservoir quality and the role of structural geology in creating effective traps. From conventional structural closures to complex stratigraphic and unconventional plays, the curriculum provides a holistic view of the subsurface energy landscape.
Furthermore, the course addresses the practical methods used by geologists to find and evaluate petroleum prospects. This includes the interpretation of seismic data, well logs, and geochemical analyses. Participants will learn how to assess geological risk and uncertainty, which are essential for making informed investment decisions in exploration and development. By the end of the course, participants will be able to integrate diverse geological datasets to characterize a petroleum system and identify potential hydrocarbon leads.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:
- Define the fundamental components of a Petroleum System.
- Explain the processes of organic matter accumulation and preservation.
- Distinguish between different types of Kerogen and their hydrocarbon potential.
- Understand the mechanics of Primary and Secondary Hydrocarbon Migration.
- Identify the characteristics of high-quality Reservoir Rocks (Sandstones and Carbonates).
- Explain the importance of Porosity and Permeability in reservoir evaluation.
- Differentiate between Structural, Stratigraphic, and Combination Traps.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of various Seal lithologies and geometries.
- Analyze the role of Plate Tectonics in the formation of Sedimentary Basins.
- Interpret the timing of Hydrocarbon Generation relative to Trap formation.
- Utilize basic Well Log signatures for lithology and fluid identification.
- Assess geological risks and "Probability of Success" for exploration prospects.
- Understand the differences between Conventional and Unconventional Petroleum Systems.
- Communicate geological concepts effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
TARGET AUDIENCE:
Junior Geoscientists, Petroleum Engineers, Technical Support Staff, and Non-technical Professionals seeking a robust foundation in petroleum geology.
TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:
A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.
The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.
COURSE CERTIFICATE:
National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.

