Omanisation Reaches 94% in Telecom Sector: Key Implications for Business Owners and Investors in Oman
Muscat: The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority has reported significant progress toward a “digital-first” model over the past four years, highlighting an accelerated online service delivery alongside substantial growth in fibre and 5G infrastructure. In its annual media briefing, which covered the period from 2021 to 2025, the authority noted the digitization of 84 services and the simplification of 57, resulting in 134,364 electronic transactions—indicative of the shift from traditional counters and paperwork to digital processes.
Figures illustrating connectivity trends reveal a growing demand for services. Fixed broadband subscriptions increased to 599,000 in 2025, a rise from 525,000 in 2021. Fibre subscriptions nearly doubled, reaching 356,000 compared to 184,000, while fixed 5G subscriptions surged to 220,000, up from 76,000. This growth reflects the increasing adoption of high-speed internet in newly serviced areas. Mobile connections remain the predominant form of access, with total mobile subscriptions rising to 6.42 million in 2025 from 5.97 million in 2021.
Deployment metrics also indicate an aggressive expansion of the network. The number of fibre “homes passed” climbed dramatically to 957,000 in 2025 from 625,000 in 2021. Additionally, the count of 5G base stations soared to 6,271, up from 1,587, showcasing the rapid pace of infrastructure build-out.
Service performance metrics further underline this progress, with open-source measurements indicating average download speeds of approximately 91 Mbps for mobile data and 113 Mbps for fixed services in 2025. Consumer feedback reflected a reduction in complaints, dropping to 366,254 in 2025 from 574,777 in 2021. Escalated cases to the regulator numbered 1,510 in 2025, with the resolution rate for these cases within 14 working days climbing to 68%, an improvement from 36% in 2021—pointing to enhanced efficiency in case management.
The authority also reported a notable increase in postal activity, driven by the rise in delivery-based commerce. Domestic items shipped rose to 4.38 million in 2025 from 1.52 million in 2021. Inbound items reached 3.24 million, a considerable increase from 0.94 million, while international outbound items grew to 435,000, up from 346,000.
Regarding workforce localization, Omanisation among licensed telecom operators reached 94% in 2025, compared to 73% in postal services and 46% among authorized contractors. The authority recorded 183 violations in 2025, leading to total fines amounting to 1,042,024 Omani rials, as detailed in the briefing.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The shift to a digital-first model by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority offers substantial opportunities for businesses in Oman, enabling them to leverage enhanced connectivity and streamlined online services. This transition is positioning Oman as a hub for high-speed internet and e-commerce, and savvy investors should consider investing in digital services and infrastructure that align with this growing demand. However, businesses must also navigate the associated risks of a rapidly evolving digital landscape and potential regulatory challenges.
