TRA
Publishes Public Consultation for Draft Regulation on Telecommunications
Permits

Muscat,
27 July 2026 (ONA) — 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.

—Ends/AG