Kuwait Oil Company: A Legacy of Excellence

Established in 1934, the Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) was founded as a joint venture between the Anglo-Persian Company (now BP) and Gulf Oil Corporation (now Chevron). Since its inception, KOC has been at the forefront of Kuwait’s oil and gas sector, driving exploration, drilling, and development operations both onshore and offshore.

Early Milestones

In 1938, commercial quantities of oil were discovered in the Burgan field, a turning point in Kuwait’s energy journey. By June 1946, the late Amir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, inaugurated the export of the nation’s first crude oil shipment. This marked the beginning of Kuwait’s rise as a global oil exporter.

To support growing production, KOC expanded its infrastructure with the construction of export facilities, the North and South Piers, and the Artificial Island.

Nationalization and Growth

In 1975, KOC became 100% state-owned, marking a new chapter in its history. Five years later, the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) was established, and KOC became a subsidiary, aligning its operations with Kuwait’s broader energy goals.

Technological Achievements

KOC achieved a significant breakthrough in 2005 with the discovery of premium light crude oil in the Sabriya field. This API 52-grade oil was a testament to the company’s advanced exploration capabilities.

In 2006, KOC fulfilled a long-standing national aspiration by discovering gas in the deep Jurassic reservoirs. Fields such as Rahiyah, Mutriba, and Umm Niga contributed to Kuwait’s journey toward energy self-sufficiency.

Recent Successes

In 2018, the late Amir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, inaugurated the export of Kuwait’s first shipment of high-quality light oil. This milestone symbolized KOC’s continuous growth and commitment to excellence.

Shaping the Future

Today, KOC remains a cornerstone of Kuwait’s energy sector. Its dedication to innovation, sustainable practices, and strategic development ensures its role as a global leader in oil and gas exploration.

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