Explore Oman's rich heritage with attractions like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Jebel Shams. Save on roaming costs by getting a local SIM from Omantel or Ooredoo, or free from resellers like FRiENDi Mobile and Renna Mobile. Tourist SIMs from Omantel, Ooredoo, and Renna Mobile offer extra benefits for seamless connectivity in Oman.

Guidelines and Considerations

Acquiring an Omani SIM card is a straightforward process with major mobile operators like Omantel and Ooredoo Oman, as well as MVNOs including FRiENDi Mobile, Red Bull MOBILE, and Renna Mobile.

• Limit on Active SIM Cards: Individuals in Oman are allowed a maximum of ten active SIM cards under their name, and it's important to be aware of and adhere to this restriction.

• SIM Card Registration Regulations: While acquiring Omani SIM cards is relatively unrestricted, adherence to SIM card registration regulations is mandatory. The SIM Card Registration Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz can provide valuable insights into specific requirements.

• Mobile Device Compatibility: Ensure that your mobile device is compatible with the frequencies used in Oman for optimal connectivity. Phones supporting all relevant frequencies enhance the overall communication experience in the country.

• SIM-Lock-Free Device: Possessing a SIM-lock-free device is a prerequisite for seamless integration with Omani mobile networks, ensuring compatibility and efficient usage. 

Acquiring a SIM Card in Oman

Individuals looking to obtain a SIM card in Oman have several options, including major mobile operators such as Omantel and Ooredoo Oman, and various Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) like FRiENDi Mobile, Red Bull MOBILE, and Renna Mobile.

• Accessibility of the Process: The process of obtaining a SIM card in Oman is generally accessible, providing residents and visitors with convenient options for securing a communication solution.

• Restriction on Active SIM Cards: Individuals are subject to a restriction in Oman, allowing a maximum of ten active SIM cards under their name. It's important to be aware of and adhere to this limitation.

• Designated Points of Purchase: Exploring designated points of purchase offered by major mobile operators and MVNOs enables individuals to easily secure a SIM card that aligns with their communication needs in the country.

Compatibility of Mobile Phones in Oman

Using your phone in Oman is contingent on the technology it employs. A Quick Guide is shown below:

Update on Vodafone Oman's Launch in December 2021

December 2021 marked the official launch of Vodafone Oman, selected as the third mobile operator in the country in 2019.

A Vodafone Store

Being a newcomer, Vodafone Oman is currently in the process of building its 4G/LTE and 5G NR networks, and the complete portfolio of plans is yet to be unveiled. Despite this, residents of Oman, especially in Muscat, have the opportunity to explore Vodafone Oman's offerings and become early adopters.

5G NR Availability in Oman

Commercial 5G NR (New Radio) connectivity has been introduced in Oman. This advanced technology is accessible through the Omantel and Ooredoo Oman networks, providing users with enhanced and high-speed 5G services.

It's important to note that as of now, Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Oman do not have access to 5G NR capabilities. This development showcases the progression of mobile networks in Oman, offering cutting-edge connectivity options for users on specific networks.

Optimal SIM Card Choice in Oman

For those seeking the most reliable SIM card in Oman, my recommendation is to opt for Ooredoo. Renowned for its extensive coverage, Ooredoo offers comparable speed, and in some instances, even faster service than Omantel. Choosing Ooredoo ensures a robust and efficient mobile experience in Oman.

Mandatory SIM Card Registration in Oman

In Oman, the registration of SIM cards, requiring passport information, is a compulsory process conducted at the point of sale. 

Notably, individuals, whether Omani citizens or non-citizens, including migrant workers and tourists, are subject to a restriction allowing a maximum of ten active prepaid SIM cards in Oman. This regulatory measure is applicable to all, emphasising the importance of compliance with SIM card registration requirements.

Prohibition of VoIP Services in Oman

Oman has implemented a comprehensive ban on most Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, encompassing platforms like WhatsApp calls, Facebook Messenger calls, and Snapchat calls. This restriction is often attributed to concerns about potential revenue losses, particularly in international call and text revenues for major telecom providers, Omantel and Ooredoo Oman.

The ban extends to VoIP services lacking servers within Oman, resulting in their blockage. However, exceptions exist for certain VoIP services like Google Talk, Viber, and Yahoo, facilitated through licensing agreements.

Overview of Omani Prepaid SIM Cards

In the following sections is a detailed insight into the offerings of major Oman mobile operators, including Omantel (Oman Mobile), Ooredoo Oman (formerly Nawras), FRiENDi Mobile Oman, Red Bull MOBILE Oman, and Renna Mobile. 

Omantel (عمانتل – Oman Mobile)

Omantel, also recognized as Oman Mobile or عمانتل, stands as the largest mobile operator in Oman. Pioneering the telecommunications sector in the country, Omantel holds the distinction of being Oman's first telecommunications company. Presently, the company remains predominantly state-owned, with a 51% government ownership stake. 

Omantel Store

Omantel Coverage Overview

Omantel boasts extensive coverage across Oman, ensuring a widespread network reach. The availability of 4G/LTE is pervasive in most regions, offering high-speed connectivity in various locations, with the exception of remote desert areas. This comprehensive coverage enhances the accessibility and reliability of Omantel services for users throughout the country, contributing to a seamless mobile experience in numerous settings.

Omantel Data-Featured Prepaid Plans

Omantel provides a diverse range of seven prepaid plans, each tailored to cater to specific data needs:

1. Marhaba Combo Packs
2. Hayyak Recharge (combo)
3. New Hayyak Plans (combo)
4. Hayyak Mobile Internet Plans
5. Hayyak Data Only
6. Unlimited YouTube & Music Passes (data for Anghami & YouTube)
7. Non-Stop Social Plans (data for selected social media apps)

Ooredoo Oman (اوریدو عمان – Formerly Nawras)

Ooredoo Oman, also known as Ooredoo and previously operating under the name Nawras until 2014, stands as the second major mobile operator in Oman. While slightly smaller than Omantel in terms of market share, Ooredoo is often regarded as the more cost-effective option in various scenarios when compared to Omantel. This alternative mobile operator provides users with a competitive choice for telecommunications services in Oman.

Ooredoo Oman Coverage Overview

Ooredoo is distinguished for offering the most extensive coverage across Oman, solidifying its reputation as the mobile operator with the best reach in the country. 

The availability of 4G/LTE is widespread, ensuring high-speed connectivity in virtually all regions, with the exception of remote desert areas. 

This comprehensive coverage enhances Ooredoo's standing as a reliable choice for users seeking widespread and consistent mobile services throughout Oman, contributing to a seamless and robust communication experience.

Ooredoo Oman Data-Featured Prepaid Plans

Ooredoo presents a selection of three data-featured prepaid plans catering to diverse user needs:

• Hala Plans (combo): This plan combines various features to offer users a comprehensive package, including data, calls, and potentially other services.

• Data Only Plans: Tailored for users primarily seeking data services, these plans are designed to provide a dedicated and robust data experience without the inclusion of additional features.

• Internet Promotion (data add-ons): Users can benefit from additional data through these promotions, allowing for flexibility in enhancing their data allowances as needed.

FRiENDi Mobile Oman (فرندي موبايل عمان)

FRiENDi Mobile Oman, also recognized simply as FRiENDi Mobile and فرندي موبايل عمان, operates as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) under Ooredoo Oman. It holds the distinction of being the largest MVNO in the country.

FRiENDi Mobile Oman Data-Featured Prepaid Plans

FRiENDi Mobile presents a selection of five data-featured prepaid plans tailored to cater to various user preferences:

• Hot Offers (combo): This plan combines a variety of features, including data, calls, and potentially other services, providing users with a comprehensive package.

• App Exclusive Offers (combo): Geared towards users seeking exclusive deals within specific applications, this plan offers a combination of data and additional benefits within the app ecosystem.

• Mix Plans/Data & Calls (combo): Tailored for those desiring a mix of data and calling services, this plan provides a balanced combination to meet diverse communication needs.

• Data Plans: Designed for users primarily requiring data services, these plans focus on providing dedicated and robust data experiences without the inclusion of additional features.

• Data Cards: Targeting specific data needs, data cards offer flexibility in enhancing data allowances as needed, allowing users to customise their data experience.

Red Bull Mobile Oman

Red Bull Mobile Oman, also known simply as Red Bull Mobile, operates as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) under Omantel. 

Established in 2019, Red Bull Mobile is recognized as Oman's newest MVNO. With a distinct focus on catering to the youth demographic, Red Bull Mobile aims to provide tailored services to this target group. 

However, it's important to note that Red Bull Mobile SIM cards are available for anyone, regardless of age, offering a versatile option for a broad range of users in Oman.

Red Bull MOBILE Oman Coverage Overview

As an Omantel Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), Red Bull MOBILE relies on the Omantel network for its services and does not operate its own mobile infrastructure. 

This strategic arrangement ensures that Red Bull MOBILE leverages the established coverage of the Omantel network. While the coverage details align with Omantel's network, Red Bull MOBILE focuses on delivering its services within the parameters of this existing infrastructure. 

Red Bull MOBILE Oman Data-Featured Prepaid Plans

Red Bull MOBILE offers a diverse selection of five data-featured prepaid plans, each designed to cater to specific user preferences:

• Yalla Flex (customizable combo): This plan provides users with the flexibility to customise their combo package according to their unique needs, offering a personalised and tailored mobile experience.

• Monthly Plans (combo): Tailored for users seeking a comprehensive monthly package, this plan combines various features, including data, calls, and potentially additional services for an all-inclusive experience.

• Plans (combo): Geared towards a balanced combination of data and calling services, this plan offers users a versatile option to meet diverse communication needs.

• Open Data Plans: Ideal for users primarily requiring data services, these plans focus on providing dedicated and robust data experiences without the inclusion of additional features.

• Social Data Plans: Targeting specific social media needs, these plans offer dedicated data allowances for selected social media applications, providing users with a tailored solution for their social connectivity.

Renna Mobile

Renna Mobile operates as an Omantel Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) and holds the distinction of being the first MVNO established in the country. Spearheading innovation in the Omani telecommunications landscape, Renna Mobile introduced the concept of MVNOs to Oman. 

Renna Mobile Coverage Overview

As an Omantel Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), Renna Mobile relies on the Omantel network for its services and does not maintain its own mobile infrastructure. This strategic reliance on the Omantel network ensures that Renna Mobile benefits from the established coverage of Omantel. 

Renna Mobile Data-Featured Prepaid Plans

Renna Mobile offers a selection of five data-featured prepaid plans, each catering to specific user preferences:

• Combo Plans: Providing users with a comprehensive combination of features, including data, calls, and potentially additional services, this plan offers an all-inclusive mobile experience.

• Freedom Bundles (combo): Tailored for users seeking versatile options, these bundles combine various features, such as data and calls, providing flexibility and freedom in usage.

• Data Bundles: Ideal for users primarily requiring data services, these plans focus on providing dedicated and robust data experiences without the inclusion of additional features.

• Day & Night Data Bundles: Offering users flexibility in data usage, these bundles provide distinct allowances for day and night usage, allowing for optimised data usage at different times.

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