Digital Resilience

Dr Saud bin Hamid Al Shaili, Director General of Policies and Governance and Head of the National Space Programme at the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, stated that Oman demonstrated the concept of digital resilience in practice during Cyclone Shaheen. The national emergency management system showed high levels of efficiency in coordination and integration among government entities, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority and licensed telecom operators, contributing to the continuity of communications services and the rapid restoration of affected services within record timeframes.

Dr Al Shaili explained that the telecommunications and information technology sector played a pivotal role in supporting relief and emergency response operations by enhancing network readiness, facilitating seamless coordination among relevant entities, and delivering information and alerts to citizens and residents in affected areas. He affirmed that achieving digital resilience requires integrated efforts and sustainable investment in flexible infrastructure capable of rapid recovery.

He added that the Ministry continues to work closely with its partners to strengthen the resilience of the telecommunications and information technology sector and develop policies and plans that ensure service sustainability and preparedness for future challenges, including climate risks and various emergencies.

In his concluding remarks, Dr Saud Al Shaili reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to supporting international efforts led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to build a more inclusive and resilient digital world that guarantees connectivity for all, particularly during times of crises and emergencies.

Ensuring Continuity of Vital Services

For his part, Omar bin Abdullah Al Qatbi, Vice President of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority and representative of the telecommunications sub-sector within the essential services sector of the national emergency management system, stated that the telecommunications sector in Oman constitutes a key pillar of the national emergency management framework, particularly amid the growing reliance on telecommunications and information technology services across vital sectors. He noted that the sector has successfully established advanced levels of national readiness and resilience in recent years, supported by advanced infrastructure, modern regulatory frameworks and integrated business continuity plans that ensure rapid response and minimise the impact of emergencies on essential services.

Al Qatbi added that the sector has continued developing its regulatory and operational frameworks through the issuance of specialised emergency management regulations and by requiring licensees to regularly update emergency response plans. Continuous field exercises are also conducted to enhance preparedness and address potential challenges. He pointed out that the sector relies on a flexible technological ecosystem that includes backup routes and systems, as well as geographically distributed critical facilities. Immediate emergency solutions are also activated during crises, such as domestic roaming, rerouting telecommunications traffic and broadcasting alerts via mobile phones to ensure warnings reach citizens and residents quickly and efficiently.

Omar Al Qatbi stressed that the telecommunications sector has demonstrated a strong capability in restoring services and maintaining the continuity of critical services during recovery phases. This reflects Oman’s advanced position in building secure, resilient and adaptable telecommunications networks capable of operating efficiently under various circumstances. He added that continued investment in advanced technologies and the development of national capabilities will further strengthen the sector’s regional leadership in emergency management and business continuity.

Building a Digital Economy

Oman’s telecommunications and information technology sector continues to reinforce its role in building an advanced digital environment that supports the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 through fostering innovation and leveraging advanced technologies to achieve sustainable economic and social development. The year 2025 witnessed notable progress in the telecommunications and postal sectors, with the number of licensed companies reaching 23 operators providing a range of telecommunications services, including fixed, mobile, international, maritime, infrastructure and encryption services.

Growing Economy

The telecommunications sector recorded remarkable economic performance during 2023–2024, with revenues reaching OMR 918 million and investments amounting to OMR 250.5 million, reflecting clear market expansion and growing demand for services. Royalties exceeded OMR 63 million amid improved company performance, while Omanisation rates remained high at 94%, demonstrating the sector’s continued commitment to strengthening national talent and capabilities.

Growth in Mobile Communications

Indicators showed notable growth in mobile subscriptions between the fourth quarter of 2024 and the fourth quarter of 2025, rising to more than 6.5 million subscriptions compared to 6.3 million, with penetration rates reaching 123.5%. Mobile broadband subscriptions also exceeded 5.4 million, while penetration rates remained stable at 101.5%, reflecting the increasing reliance on mobile communications services in daily life and across critical sectors.

Expansion of Fixed Networks

Fixed broadband services also continued to grow, with subscriptions approaching 599,000 and penetration rates nearing 83%. Fixed-line subscriptions reached 443,300, with penetration rates exceeding 61%, reflecting stable demand and the gradual expansion of services.

Advancement of 5G Networks

Fifth generation (5G) networks witnessed significant growth during the first half of 2025, with the number of stations increasing to 6,671 compared to 5,432 during the same period in 2024, representing a growth rate of approximately 23%. The growth reflects the rapid expansion of Oman’s digital infrastructure, enhanced network readiness to support digital transformation, and improved efficiency and quality of telecommunications services across various sectors.