Organic geochemical characteristics and oil generating potential of the Upper Jurassic Safer shale sediments in the Marib-Shabowah Basin, western Yemen

► Safer shales have rich organic matter with high total organic carbon (TOC) content. ► The kerogen is characterized by predominantly amorphous organic matter and alginite. ► The organic matter is predominantly Type II kerogen and mixed Type II-III kerogen. ► The Upper Jurassic Safer shale sediments have very good oil generative potential.