Abstract The Sarvak Formation (Cenomanian–Turonian) forms one of the main reservoir rocks in many oilfields in southern Iran. Extensive lateral and vertical facies variations as well as effects caused mainly by the subaerial exposure associated with the regional Turonian unconformity have resulted in variable porosity and permeability. Dissolution affected the entire upper part of the Sarvak Formation and is the most important process related to subaerial exposure. Brecciation, development of palaeosol and formation of bauxite deposits are also limited to the upper few metres of the top of the Sarvak Formation and indicate warm and humid climatic conditions. Subaerial exposure had varying effects on the diagenesis depending on its duration, palaeotopography and the availability of meteoric water. The δ 18 O and δ 13 C values obtained from calcitic matrix, various generations of calcite cements and calcitic rudist shells in the Upper Sarvak overlap to a large extent, indicating their equilibration with fluids of similar isotopic composition. Negative δ 18 O values (i.e. −6.6‰ to −1.7‰) suggest a significant meteoric component. More 18 O-depleted values (e.g. −12.3‰) obtained from late calcite cements indicate their precipitatation from warm fluids. Positive δ 13 C values (i.e. 0.00‰ to 3.4‰) in the various carbonate phases reflect values of seawater coeval with an Oceanic Anoxic Event and later modified by meteoric waters.