Oman Mobile launches 3.5G network

After mobilizing an extensive team, ranging from telecome engineers to marketing specialists, Oman Mobile yesterday announced the launch of its state-of-the-art 3.5G network. Dr Amer al Rawas, Managing Director of Oman Mobile, expressed his joy at the launch, saying: "Today is a remarkable day in Oman Mobile history as we are proud to announce the launch of our brand-new 3.5G network. This state-of-the-art network will complement the various other wireless and broadband technologies with which Omantel and Oman Mobile are serving the country."

Providing the highest service quality and speed is clearly a main objective of the company, as Dr Al Rawas explains: "Our teams have already finished extensive testing of the network, and I am extremely pleased with the results. Still, this is not enough. We are now submitting our services to the toughest test panel imaginable: the Sultanate's major Corporations. Selected clients will be enjoying super-fast mobile broadband, and we will use their feedback to fine-tune our network and services. Only after these most demanding clients confirm the excellence of our network then we will be prepared to go live."

Oman Mobile 3.5G network will enable the provision of new and exciting services to its clients. "Based on extensive market research, we have prepared a host of new services adapted to the mobile lifestyle of our customers. We will reveal information about our services at a later stage; However, we can assure our customers that our tariffs will be competitive. simple and transparent, and everyone will be able to enjoy our services," he added.

Dr Al Rawas pointed out that coverage is another main priority of the company. "Ubiquitous coverage was always there and will always be the distinguishing factor of Oman Mobile. As of today, we have extensive 3.5G coverage in Muscat Governorate, and our implementation teams are already working in each area of Oman. By combining our 3.5G network with our existing EDGE network, we offer our customers seamless coverage, virtually everywhere across the Sultanate."

Commenting on the timing of the 3.5G launch: "We decided to invest now as the technology has become mature and stable, as is the case with 3.5G and, specifically, HSDPA, offering mobile broadband speeds up to 7.2 Mbps. We did not want to build a network that provided only marginal consumer benefits compared to existing technologies."

"When European and GCC operators deployed the first 3G networks, customer uptake was limited, as the technology was not yet mature. For the customers that opted for rather expensive 3G services, the benefits in terms of speed, services and mobility fell short of expectations," he added.

Dr Al Rawas thanked the team involved in the project. "I recognise the remarkable work done by the joint Oman Mobile and Huawei team responsible for implementing the network in record time. I also would like to extend my sincere thanks to Telecommunication Regulatory Authority and all government entities that were part of the success of this project."