<p>The Upper Urho Formation (P₃w) of the Permian in Central Zhongguai Rise, Junggar Basin is a key target for deep hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation. Based on cores, wireline logs, thin sections, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and 3D seismic sections, this study systematically investigates sedimentary facies, petrological characteristics and physical properties of glutenite reservoirs, and discusses controlling factors on glutenite reservoir properties. The results reveal that fan delta deposits are developed in Central Zhongguai Rise. Braided channels dominate the first member of Urho Formation (P₃w¹), while subaqueous distributary channels dominate the second member of Urho Formation (P₃w²). The two members show distinct petrological features. In P₃w¹, residual intergranular pores and dissolved pores are predominant, with clay minerals mainly consisting of kaolinite and illite-smectite mixed layers. In contrast, P₃w² is composed of mixed grain types, and its pore spaces are primarily residual intergranular and intragranular pores. Porosity and permeability data indicate that both reservoir intervals exhibit similar average porosity and permeability, and both are generally classified as low to medium-low permeability reservoirs. However, P₃w² has a higher maximum porosity, a greater proportion of high-quality reservoirs, and more abundant tight low-permeability end members, indicating stronger heterogeneity. Reservoir quality is primarily controlled by sedimentation, followed by diagenesis. Sedimentation governs the distribution of sand bodies and their original fabric, providing the material basis for subsequent diagenetic alterations. Diagenetic processes such as compaction, cementation, and dissolution further modify the pore structure. The subaqueous distributary channel sand bodies in P₃w² possess a favorable original fabric, which, combined with dissolution-induced porosity enhancement, is key to the formation of high-quality “sweet spot” reservoirs.</p>