"Zohr is the largest gas discovery ever made in Egypt and in the Mediterranean Sea and could become one of the world's largest natural gas finds," Eni said in a statement.

"The discovery, after its full development, will be able to ensure satisfying Egypt's natural gas demand for decades."

The news came a day after Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi met in Cairo with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, the Egyptian leader's office said.

According to well and seismic information, Zohr could hold a potential of 30 trillion cubic feet of gas and an estimated 5.5 billion barrels of oil. It covers an area of about 100 square kilometres.