Oman Finalizes 3G Network Shutdown, Achieves 99% 4G and 90% 5G Coverage

The telecommunications sector has completed the project of completely closing the third-generation networks in the Sultanate of Oman and upgrading them to the fourth and fifth generations. This transition began during the third quarter of 2024, starting with its first phase, as part of a gradual plan that targeted less densely populated areas.

In July 2024, the closure of 700 third-generation stations was completed in the governorates of Buraimi, Al Dhahirah, and Musandam. This was followed in December 2024 by the completion of the closure of 584 stations in the Governorate of Al Dakhiliya. Then, in January 2025, 864 stations in the governorates of Al Wusta and Dhofar were shut down, followed by the closure of 1,835 stations in the governorates of South and North Al Batinah, South and North Al Sharqiya.

Finally, the closure of 1,699 stations in the Governorate of Muscat was completed in the second quarter of this year, 2025, with the temporary exception of some existing third-generation stations around Muscat International Airport due to technical reasons.

The project aims to completely shut down third-generation networks to improve telecommunications services, reuse frequencies in more advanced technologies, and enhance energy efficiency. Third-generation bands have also been redirected to support fourth- and fifth-generation networks and the Internet of Things, which contributed to the upgrade of more than 5,600 stations in various governorates.

Among the most important results achieved is the coverage of the fourth-generation network by 99% across the Sultanate of Oman, while the coverage of the fifth generation reached 90%. Annual energy savings of more than two million kilowatt-hours were also achieved.

The Sultanate of Oman is one of the first countries to successfully shut down the third-generation network entirely and move to more modern technologies.