Oman Future Telecommunications Company (Vodafone Oman) and Oman Towers Company (OTC) have signed an agreement to use inactive telecom towers under the patronage of Oman’s Minister of Technology and Communications, Eng. Azza bint Sulaiman Al Ismaili.
The agreement stated that OTC will provide the towers to power Vodafone Oman’s networks. The new operator is expected to enter the local market during the second half of 2020.
Sayyid Hamad bin Ahmed Al Busaidi, OTC Board Chairman and Majid bin Amer Al Kharousi, CEO of Vodafone Oman signed the agreement which comes within the framework of the government’s consistent aim to innovate and enable greater efficiency within the country, represented by the Ministry of Technology and Communications as well as the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA).
They have been working towards upgrading the current telecom infrastructure within the country and in turn, growing their telecoms sector as it is a key industry to the Omani economy.
The ceremony was attended by Sayyid Mohammed bin Sultan Al Busaidi, Minister of State, Governor of Dhofar and Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin Al Ghassani, Head of Dhofar Municipality.
With an increase in both fixed and wireless subscribers and the rise of a youthful population, Oman’s telecom industry has stepped up to provide the latest and greatest and to also contribute to the development of its vibrant economy.
Currently, the telecom market in Oman comprises of two operators, Ooredoo and Omantel.
Vodafone Oman’s market debut was announced in September 2019 and was part of a 15-year partnership with the Oman Future Telecommunications Company, an Oman 70 Holding company. The agreement involved Oman Future Telecommunications to join Vodafone’s global partner program and to form a board of directors which will be supported by the Omani government.
The new competitor is set to bring the Omani telecoms sector into a new phase of greater growth, innovation and advanced connectivity.