The Sultanate of Oman’s telecommunications sector is experiencing a period of robust expansion, according to the latest data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI). Figures through the end of October 2025 demonstrate consistently strong growth across various segments, signaling a digitally evolving nation and presenting opportunities for investment and innovation in Oman’s digital infrastructure. This surge is driven by both increased mobile subscriptions and a particularly dramatic adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.
Oman Telecommunications Sector: Key Growth Indicators
The NCSI data paints a clear picture of a thriving telecommunications sector in Oman. Total mobile service subscriptions have reached an impressive 8,045,400, an 11.3% increase year-on-year compared to October 2024. This growth is split between postpaid and prepaid services, both demonstrating positive trends, but with differing rates of expansion.
Mobile Subscription Breakdown
- Postpaid Growth: Active postpaid mobile subscriptions saw a more modest, but still significant, rise of 1.9% bringing the total to 1,260,429. This indicates a growing preference for contract-based services, potentially driven by bundled offerings and data allowances.
- Prepaid Dominance & Growth: Prepaid subscriptions continue to dominate the market, comprising the vast majority of mobile users. They experienced a 3.0% increase, reaching 5,200,770 subscribers. This remains a crucial segment, providing accessible mobile connectivity to a broad demographic.
- Broadband Expansion: The need for faster and more reliable connectivity is clearly increasing. Active mobile broadband subscriptions climbed to 5,432,686, while fixed broadband subscriptions saw a 3.6% increase to 595,692.
The Rise of IoT in Oman
Perhaps the most striking figure from the NCSI report is the exponential growth in the Internet of Things (IoT). Subscriptions to IoT – specifically machine-to-machine (M2M) services – surged by an astounding 68.0%, reaching 1,584,201 by October 2025. This highlights Oman’s increasing interest and investment in smart technologies.
This rapid adoption likely stems from several initiatives across various sectors including logistics, energy, and smart city development. The government’s focus on diversification away from oil and gas is undoubtedly playing a role, with IoT identified as a key enabler for economic growth and efficiency. This is consistent with the broader trend of digital transformation happening across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
Shifting Landscape of Internet Services
While overall internet access is increasing, the methods by which Omanis connect are evolving. Fiber-to-the-Home/Building (FTTH/B) subscriptions are experiencing significant growth, jumping by 12.4% to 351,432. This demonstrates a clear preference for the speed and reliability of fiber optic networks.
Changing Technologies & Subscriber Trends
- Fiber Optic Momentum: The escalating demand for FTTH/B directly reflects the increasing popularity of bandwidth-intensive applications like high-definition video streaming, online gaming, and remote work.
- Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Evolution: Fixed 5G subscriptions saw a small increase of 0.5% reaching 219,751 subscribers. While growing, its slower pace suggests consumers are still evaluating its long-term benefits compared to fiber.
- Decline of Older Technologies: Conversely, older technologies are rapidly losing ground. Fixed 4G subscriptions plummeted by 51.3% to just 12,621, while ADSL subscriptions dropped by 37.9% to 10,237. These declines coincide with the expansion of FTTH/B and FWA services, as consumers migrate to faster, more modern solutions.
- Satellite Internet Gains: Interestingly, satellite internet subscriptions rose by a notable 35.5% to 904. This likely caters to areas where terrestrial internet infrastructure is limited or unavailable. Other internet subscriptions such as power line, ethernet and leased internet lines also experienced a 11.0% decline reaching 747.
Implications & Future Outlook for Oman’s Telecoms
The data clearly showcases a dynamic telecommunications sector in Oman, driven by rising mobile subscriptions, the phenomenal growth of IoT, and a shift towards future-proof technologies like fiber. The government’s ongoing investments in digital infrastructure, coupled with initiatives to promote digital literacy and innovation, are creating a favorable environment for continued expansion.
This growth has implications for businesses operating in Oman. The increased connectivity and adoption of IoT present new opportunities for efficiency gains, service innovation, and reaching wider customer bases. Furthermore, the shift towards digital services will require businesses to adapt their strategies and embrace technological advancements.
Looking ahead, the Omani telecommunications sector is expected to maintain its upward trajectory. Continued investment in 5G networks, further expansion of FTTH/B infrastructure, and the proliferation of IoT applications will be key drivers of growth. Monitoring these trends will be vital for both industry stakeholders and those interested in the broader economic development of the Sultanate. Staying informed about these developments will allow businesses and individuals to capitalize on the opportunities presented by Oman’s increasingly connected future.
