Monday 27 / July / 2026
Muscat: The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has published a public consultation on a draft regulation for regulating permits to provide services in the telecommunications sector. This aims to explore the views of relevant stakeholders and interested parties, within the framework of its continuous efforts to develop the regulatory environment of the telecommunications sector, enhance the quality of services, and raise the efficiency of business execution.
The regulation seeks to regulate the activities and services provided by companies and individuals working in the execution of telecommunication services, establishing a clear regulatory framework that keeps pace with the sector's development and requirements.
The draft includes regulating the issuance of permits for a wide range of services. Most notably, these include the installation and maintenance of telecommunications and information technology devices; the execution of excavation and construction works for the network projects of licensed companies; the supply and installation of equipment and devices; the development of systems and applications; the management of licensed or permitted telecommunication networks; last-mile services; consulting services; information security; the marketing of licensees' services; and other services associated with the sector. Furthermore, the regulation categorizes the permits into four main categories, which encompass manufacturers, systems integration and development, passive infrastructure services, and professional support services.
The draft specifies the mechanism for applying for permits, the timeframes for deciding on applications, the validity period of the permit, and the mechanisms for its renewal. This is in addition to regulating the procedures for amending or canceling permits, in a manner that contributes to enhancing transparency and the ease of doing business. It also includes specific controls regarding the disclosure of changes in ownership, along with regulatory requirements that ensure the efficiency and sustainability of the services provided within the sector.
Moreover, the regulation focuses on enhancing governance and compliance by obligating licensed and permitted entities to adhere to information security and cybersecurity controls, protect beneficiaries' data, and refrain from assigning works to anyone other than permitted entities. In addition, it aims to empower small and medium enterprises by allocating a minimum contract value to them, enhance local content, and raise the efficiency of national cadres through continuous training and qualification, alongside setting standards for institutional classification and performance measurement.
The publication of the draft regulation stems from the Authority's approach based on partnership with various relevant parties. It provides an opportunity to receive feedback and views that contribute to achieving a balance between regulatory requirements and stimulating investment, while elevating the quality of services provided in the telecommunications sector in alignment with the targets of digital transformation in the Sultanate of Oman.
The Authority has called upon all concerned entities and members of the community to participate in the questionnaire designated for the consultation and to submit their remarks and proposals. This aims to enhance the quality of legislative outputs and keep pace with the best international practices in this field.
