Oil & Gas

Since 2010, reliable sources have confirmed substantial petroleum reserves in the Levant basin — approximately 1.7 billion barrels of recoverable oil and 122 trillion cubic feet of recoverable gas — indicating significant offshore resources in Lebanese waters.

Legal Framework

In January 2011, Lebanon's Parliament enacted the Offshore Petroleum Resources Law (Law 2010/32), establishing the regulatory framework for offshore oil and gas exploration and exploitation. The Petroleum Administration Board (PAB), appointed by the Lebanese cabinet with six members, oversees the preparation for bidding and pre-qualification phases. The Ministry of Energy & Water opened the first pre-qualification round on February 15, 2013.

Our Services

• Negotiation and drafting of petroleum and gas exploration contracts, sales agreements, and licenses
• Joint venture agreements
• Assistance for new market entrants navigating regulatory requirements
• Pre-bid and tender support with regulatory bodies
• Corporate and taxation advice
• Due diligence and feasibility studies
• Legal counseling and sector expertise

Mattar Law Firm combines sectoral knowledge and established regulatory relationships to deliver quality legal advice for clients operating in Lebanon's developing oil and gas industry.