Omantel’s Initiative to Empower Oman’s Digital Future: Key Implications for Investors and Businesses
MUSCAT, MAY 20 — During a media briefing on Monday, Omantel CEO Talal bin Said al Mamari emphasized the significant transformation taking place in Oman’s telecommunications sector. He highlighted the company’s critical role in linking the economy and essential services through a range of high-quality solutions including artificial intelligence, education, and healthcare.
Al Mamari announced that Omantel has allocated approximately RO 12 million to support Omani tech entrepreneurs, demonstrating a commitment to fostering innovation and advancing the digital economy.
To address the increasing demand for internet services, Omantel plans to install four to six new submarine cables connecting Salalah to various locations within the next two years. Currently, Omantel holds a substantial market share in the regional telecommunications sector, with its submarine cables contributing nearly 15% of total regional connectivity.
The CEO noted that individual data consumption on the Omantel network has quadrupled over the last decade and tripled in just the past three years. Furthermore, the company aims to establish a specialized academy focused on artificial intelligence skills, partnering with international organizations to stay aligned with the latest advancements in this crucial field.
Al Mamari also discussed Omantel’s achievements in forming alliances with global leaders to enhance national capabilities in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. These partnerships are designed to increase commercial value and drive innovation within the information and communication technology sector.
Among the key agreements, Omantel partnered with Amazon Web Services to improve cloud sovereignty and bolster Oman’s cloud capabilities. Another collaboration involves launching a marketplace to create new opportunities for Omani companies, aiding their regional and global reach. Additionally, a significant agreement with Google aims to develop Cloud Edge using AI and machine learning.
Further collaborations include agreements with Microsoft to accelerate ICT innovations and with Huawei to establish a national cloud platform in Oman. Al Mamari underscored that these partnerships, combined with solutions from Omantel’s subsidiaries and its international connectivity, position the company as a comprehensive technology solutions provider catering to the evolving needs of enterprise and consumer customers.
On the nationalization front, Omantel has achieved an impressive 93% Omanisation, reflecting its dedication to developing local talent and enhancing citizen involvement in the country’s growth.
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The ongoing transformation of Oman’s telecommunications sector signals significant opportunities for businesses, particularly in tech and digital services. Smart investors should consider the implications of Omantel’s hefty investment in local tech entrepreneurship and its strategic partnerships with global players, which position Oman as a burgeoning hub for cloud computing and AI innovations. However, businesses must remain vigilant amid rising demands for connectivity and the fast-evolving landscape to capitalize on these opportunities effectively.
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