Ras Al Khaimah Grants Mantle8 Exclusive Rights for Natural Hydrogen Exploration

French exploration company Mantle8 has secured exclusive rights to negotiate an exploration contract for Block 7 in Ras Al Khaimah, marking the emirate's first geophysical survey dedicated to natural hydrogen, according to reports by Gulf Business and Arabian Post. Fieldwork is currently underway following an agreement with the Ras Al Khaimah Department of Energy.

Mantle8 is self-funding the initial non-invasive survey, which involves installing more than 1,000 passive seismic sensors across a programme expected to run up to 24 months. The company has established a permanent regional office in Dubai. The initial phase requires no drilling and aims to assess whether local geology can support domestic hydrogen production.

Jean-Valery Garcia, Mantle8's Regional Director for the Middle East, stated that the exclusivity period gives the company defined rights over the block to confirm resource potential. If survey data yields positive results, Mantle8 and the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEA) will negotiate a comprehensive exploration agreement covering exploratory drilling and development commitments.

Mantle8 plans to deploy proprietary geophysical and geochemical technologies, alongside field sampling of rock, water, and gas. The company did not disclose the financial cost of the survey or the surface area of Block 7.