TX 75083-3836, U.S.A., fax 01-972-952-9435. AbstractZubair and Upper Burgan are important clastic reservoirs in North Kuwait. Phase 1 of the North Kuwait Waterflood Project includes peripheral water injection for pressure maintenance of these reservoirs. Injection at matrix conditions commenced in mid 2001 and though initial injection rates were promising, injectivity declined rapidly in many wells. Various remedial actions were unsuccessful in achieving sustained injection at desired rates. Subsequently, a series ofStep Rate Tests were conducted which indicated that desired injectivity could be achieved if injection was above fracture conditions. Consequently, measurement of fracture pressures for the reservoirs assumed key importance for forward planning and design of injection facilities for Phase 2 of the Waterflood Project.