Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Details) (Increase (decrease) in cash flow, USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011
Nabors Delaware (Issuer/Guarantor)
Condensed Consolidated Financial Information
Increase (decrease) in cash used for operating activities	$ 78.0
Increase (decrease) in cash used for investing activities	78.0
Other Subsidiaries (Non-Guarantors)
Condensed Consolidated Financial Information
Increase (decrease) in cash used for operating activities	78.0
Increase (decrease) in cash used for investing activities	$ 78.0