Muscat: Omantel recently held its annual media gathering, highlighting its evolution from a traditional telecom provider to a leading regional digital technology powerhouse. This transformation supports Oman Vision 2040, reflecting Omantel’s dedication to innovation, expanded digital infrastructure, and regional technological leadership.
Omantel CEO Talal Said Al Maamari said, “Omantel Group transcends traditional telecom services, evolving into a leading provider of Generative AI-driven and advanced technology products and solutions.” The company integrates cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), Generative AI, cybersecurity, and fintech to build a robust digital ecosystem supporting Oman’s businesses and individuals.
With 98% 4G and 92% 5G coverage and over 16,000 kilometres of fibre-optic network, Omantel ensures seamless high-speed internet access. It has pioneered Oman’s first virtual 5G network with cloud integration and introduced Wi-Fi calling, managing approximately 90% of Oman’s internet traffic locally to boost security and performance.
Omantel has connected over 500,000 smart electricity meters and 300,000 smart water meters through IoT solutions, contributing significantly to smart city initiatives. The Omantel Group, including Zain, serves over 54 million subscribers across the region, with revenues surpassing OMR 3 billion by the end of 2024. The Group’s wholesale arm, Zain Omantel International (ZOI), expanded its terrestrial links to 16,000 km, strengthening regional connectivity.
Supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, Omantel established Innovation Labs incubating 30 startups in fintech, cybersecurity, and edtech in 2024, generating 200 jobs and achieving a combined market value of $172 million. Specialized accelerators in AI and logistics further foster digital entrepreneurship.
Omantel’s strategy centers on an integrated digital ecosystem featuring AI-driven automation, secure cloud solutions, and next-generation cybersecurity. Its ICT division saw 55.5% revenue growth, highlighting success in enterprise technology services. The company is consolidating technological offerings under a unified platform to enhance operational efficiency and innovation.
Sustainability is a core focus, with goals to reduce emissions and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Initiatives include solar-powered data centers and recycling over 200 tonnes of electronic waste. Omantel’s 2024 Sustainability Report details its commitments to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and governance.
The company actively supports SMEs through procurement contracts totaling OMR 13.1 million and funding programs. Talent development remains a priority, with a 94% Omanisation rate and training programs that graduated hundreds of professionals since 2020.
Al Maamari highlighted the launch of an e-marketplace platform to support SMEs and promote e-commerce with integrated logistics and payment solutions, aiming for MENA region expansion.
A dedicated panel discussion at the event, “The Role of Omantel Ecosystem in Empowering the Digital Economy,” featured leaders discussing Omantel’s impact on digital transformation via cloud computing, AI, cybersecurity, and IoT. The session emphasized partnerships with global technology leaders, infrastructure expansion, and fostering digital entrepreneurship.
