Woodside has entered into a contract for an exclusive reconnaissance license with the Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines, the national oil company of the Kingdom of Morocco, to explore a block offshore Morocco, according to a press release.

The block, known as the Rabat Ultra Deep Offshore area, comprises a total of 36,737 sq km (14,184 sq miles) with depths ranging from 1700 m to 4400 m (5,577 ft to 14,436 ft).

The block is located just west of the Rabat Deep Offshore I-VI permits, in which Woodside has acquired, subject to Ministerial approval, a 25% interest.

Commitments under the reconnaissance license work program include a 2-D seismic survey and studies. The license duration is for 12 months. The grant of the license is subject to Ministerial approval.