Condensed Consolidating Financial Information (Details) (Increase (decrease) in cash flow, USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Nabors Delaware (Issuer/Guarantor)
Condensed Consolidated Financial Information
Increase (decrease) in cash used for operating activities	$ 78	$ (754)
Increase (decrease) in cash used for investing activities	78	(754)
Other Subsidiaries (Non-Guarantors)
Condensed Consolidated Financial Information
Increase (decrease) in cash used for operating activities	78	754
Increase (decrease) in cash used for investing activities	$ 78	$ 754