The Sultanate of Oman is experiencing robust growth in its telecommunications sector, evidenced by a significant rise in mobile subscriptions. Recent data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) paints a picture of increasing connectivity and a rapid adoption of new technologies across the country. This surge in demand reflects Oman’s economic development and the growing reliance on digital services for both personal and professional use. This article delves into the details of this growth, examining trends in both mobile and fixed communication services.
Oman Sees Double-Digit Growth in Total Mobile Subscriptions
The most striking statistic revealed by the NCSI data is the overall increase in mobile subscriptions. The total number reached a substantial 8,009,723 by the end of November 2025, a notable 9.6 percent jump compared to the 7,307,140 recorded during the same period in 2024. This demonstrates a strong upward trend in mobile penetration within the Omani population, fueled by competitive pricing, improved network coverage, and increasing smartphone adoption.
This growth isn’t uniform across all subscription types, which speaks to evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. Understanding these nuances is crucial for telecommunications companies operating within Oman and for policymakers aiming to support further digital expansion.
Prepaid vs. Postpaid: The Dominance of Prepaid Plans
Within the mobile landscape, prepaid subscriptions continue to dominate. By the end of November 2025, these accounted for a massive 5,152,342 subscriptions, representing the largest portion of the market. While growth in prepaid subscriptions was relatively modest at 2.0 percent year-on-year, it still signifies consistent demand.
Postpaid mobile subscriptions also experienced positive growth, increasing by 1.8 percent to reach 1,268,345. The slower growth rate compared to the overall market suggests a potential shift in user behavior, with a greater focus on data-centric plans and the convenience they offer. The accessibility and cost-effectiveness of prepaid packages, however, continue to draw a significant user base within Oman.
The Rise of Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Connectivity
Perhaps the most dynamic aspect of the Omani mobile market is the explosive growth in Machine-to-Machine (M2M) internet of things (IoT) subscriptions. These subscriptions, which connect devices like sensors, vehicles, and industrial equipment, surged by an impressive 57.5 percent, totaling 1,589,036.
This phenomenal increase underscores Oman’s commitment to digital transformation and the adoption of smart technologies across various sectors. From logistics and transportation to manufacturing and environmental monitoring, M2M connectivity is driving efficiency and innovation. This also speaks to the increasing availability of robust networks capable of supporting large-scale IoT deployments.
Expanding Fixed Broadband Infrastructure in Oman
While mobile connectivity takes the spotlight, significant developments are also occurring in Oman’s fixed communication services. The total number of fixed broadband internet subscriptions reached 597,114 by the end of November 2025, reflecting a 3 percent increase year-on-year. This indicates a steady expansion of internet access within homes and businesses.
Fiber optic technology is leading the charge in this expansion. Subscriptions to Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) soared by 10.8 percent to 354,014, as consumers increasingly prioritize the speed and reliability of fiber connections. This demand is likely connected to rising trends in streaming services and remote work.
Conversely, older technologies are seeing a decline. Fixed 4G subscriptions plummeted by 54.5 percent, and ADSL subscriptions dropped by 36.1 percent, illustrating the rapid obsolescence of these technologies in the face of fiber optic advancements and emerging 5G fixed wireless access solutions. Fixed 5G subscriptions observed a slight 1 percent growth, hinting at its potential as an alternative to FTTH in certain areas.
Growth in Fixed Telephony and International Bandwidth
The number of fixed telephone lines also experienced a slight uptick, growing by 1 percent to reach 411,065. While traditional landlines are declining in many markets, this suggests continued demand from businesses and specific segments of the population within Oman.
Complementing this overall expansion is a substantial increase in international internet bandwidth capacity. By the end of November 2025, this capacity had increased by 14.8 percent, reaching 4,102,219 Mbps. Boosting bandwidth is crucial to accommodate the rising number of users and data-intensive applications – and key to maintaining a high-quality experience for consumers and businesses alike. This investment in infrastructure is a strong indicator of Oman’s readiness for future digital demands.
In conclusion, the latest data from the NCSI confirms a vibrant and evolving telecommunications landscape in Oman. Fueled by growing mobile subscriptions, especially within the M2M sector, and a strategic investment in fixed broadband infrastructure – with FTTH leading the way – the Sultanate is making significant strides in its digital transformation. The continued growth across multiple areas signals strong economic health and a commitment to providing robust and reliable connectivity for its citizens and businesses. This expansion in telecommunications infrastructure will undoubtedly play a vital role in Oman’s Vision 2040, driving innovation and diversification. Staying informed about these trends is crucial for stakeholders across the sector to capitalize on the opportunities presented by this dynamic market, and further boost internet access in the country.
