During a recent media roundtable hosted by Huawei at the Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2024 (MBBF 2024) in Turkey, Hani Al Mukhaini, Senior Manager of Network Design at Omantel, delved into the evolution of 5G and the role of 5G FWA in Oman.
Considering the competitive nature of the telecom industry, how does Omantel Oman differentiate and ensure the success of its 5G FWA offering?
As the primary operator in Oman, boasting the most extensive telecommunications network in the country, Omantel is well-positioned to understand and cater to the unique needs of the Omani market. We have adopted a multi-faceted approach to ensure the success of our 5G FWA offering. Our strategy includes network optimization, leveraging advanced technologies like millimeter wave (mmWave) and carrier aggregation (CA) to deliver high-quality services. In addition, we partner with device manufacturers to ensure a wide selection of compatible devices for our clients.
We also take great pride in prioritizing and understanding our clients' needs. In line with this, we have introduced tailored pricing plans and bundled services to meet diverse customer segment needs, complemented by significant investments in customer support and education for a seamless user experience.
Can you share some insights from the Middle-East market, especially the opportunities you see and some challenges you have faced? How do you see 5G evolving in the Omani market?
The Middle East region is experiencing rapid digital transformation, and as a result, we see both opportunities and challenges in the deployment and scaling of 5G FWA services here. For instance, the region has a significant growing population, which is driving the demand for digital services and high-speed internet connectivity. However, we see challenges such as infrastructure limitations, harsh terrain, and competition from other service providers as potential deterrents that must be carefully addressed.
Our continuous investment in 5G infrastructure and technology reaffirms our dedication to providing value for our customers. It has also played a key role in enabling us to continuously grow our 5G traffic and provide enhanced services. At Omantel, we provide extensive network coverage, capacity optimization, and attractive 5G data plans to deliver industry-leading services for our customers.
We believe we are at the threshold of great change and are preparing to leverage 5G-A to enhance our offerings. As Oman's first (and leading) integrated telecommunications provider, we aim to usher in the 5G-A era by maximizing network capabilities and enhancing user experiences and business applications.
Could you elaborate on 5G FWA's role in enabling economic growth and innovation in Oman?
We are confident that 5G FWA is poised to be a catalyst for economic growth and innovation in Oman. By providing high-speed internet access to businesses and individuals, 5G FWA can enable the development of new industries, create jobs, and improve productivity. Additionally, 5G FWA can facilitate the adoption of advanced technologies such as glass-free 3D, IoT, AI, and cloud computing, driving innovation and competitiveness. Omantel Oman is committed to supporting the growth of the digital economy in Oman by leveraging 5G FWA as a key enabler.
According to a report by Statista, the total amount of fixed wireless access (FWA) connections is predicted to exceed 330 million worldwide by 2029. Additionally, the majority of FWA connections across the globe are expected to utilize 5G mobile networks by 2026.
We are at the forefront of the nation's digital transformation and our 5G FWA initiative is facilitating nation-wide demand for high-speed home broadband and enterprise connectivity.
Sustainability has been a topic of interest across the region. Can you share some insights on the need for telcos to adopt sustainability measures?
Sustainability is a key focus area for us at Omantel and we are actively committed to enhancing the well-being of the communities we serve. We have adopted sustainability measures and green practices to help mitigate the environmental impact of upgrading our telecom infrastructure.
We believe that responsible environmental stewardship is essential for our business's long-term success and our communities' well-being. We drive emission reductions and resource savings through various initiatives, including achieving LEED Platinum certification and multiple ISO certifications. Our dedicated Sustainability Steering Committee guides our actions and ensures alignment with Oman Vision 2040, contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future.
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