Oman continues to strengthen its position as a global connectivity hub with Omantel as the main driver, supported by sustained investment in international subsea and terrestrial networks, data centres and strategic partnerships. This integrated ecosystem has attracted global hyperscalers, technology companies and content providers to host their regional hubs in Oman, establishing the Sultanate as a gateway connecting Asia, Africa, Europe and Australia.
The growing demand for Generative AI, cloud and data-intensive services is creating further opportunities for Oman, as international carriers and technology providers increasingly prioritise low latency, network resilience, redundancy, route diversity and access to high-capacity infrastructure. Omantel has continued to develop its international wholesale capabilities to address these requirements, utilizing the Sultanate’s unique geographic position and building on Omantel's established connectivity ecosystem.
Omantel, in partnership with Zain Group, advanced to the global stage through the creation of Zain Omantel International (ZOI), a joint venture specialized in the international wholesale business. ZOI complements the capabilities through its unified, AI-ready digital infrastructure, managing the international wholesale requirements of operations in eight countries serving more than 54 million customers. Since its establishment in 2023, ZOI has become a leader in the wholesale industry by offering a comprehensive portfolio including international carrier services (voice and messaging), roaming, subsea connectivity, global internet and carrier neutral data centers. Today, ZOI has become one of the highest ranked networks in the region in terms of IP, and recently became part of a Guinness World Record remote robotic surgery between Kuwait and Brazil through its international network. ZOI also pursued next-generation international roaming solutions using blockchain and intelligent automation.
With the evolution of Generative AI and the imminent need for high capacity and reliable connectivity, the opportunities presented for Oman were central to the Middle East Global Carrier Community Meeting (ME GCCM) 2026, a conference hosted by Omantel and ZOI at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat. GCCM is one of the region’s most significant international wholesale events, bringing together international hyperscalers, digital infrastructure providers and wholesale telecommunications leaders to discuss the growing demand for global connectivity, network resilience, emerging technologies and investment opportunities.
Eng. Aladdin Baitfadhil, CEO of Omantel, said: “Within Omantel’s broader strategy, international connectivity remains a key area of focus, building on Oman’s strategic location and its growing role in connecting major global markets. Through continued investment in subsea and terrestrial networks, data centres and advanced connectivity solutions, we are strengthening the capacity, resilience and reach required by an increasingly connected global economy. As Generative AI technology continues to scale globally, demand for high connectivity and resilient networks is accelerating. Through our joint venture with Zain Group, ZOI, we have further extended our capabilities through a specialized wholesale platform that simplifies access to regional and international markets. We will continue to strengthen this ecosystem, expand reach and accelerate access, supporting the evolving requirements of global carriers, hyperscalers and AI scalers. Hosting GCCM in Muscat reflects Oman's growing role in the international wholesale industry and provides a valuable platform to strengthen partnerships and contribute to Oman’s progress towards becoming a global hub for digital infrastructure.”
The GCCM Middle East 2026 opening ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Mulham Al Jarf, the Deputy President for Investments at the Oman Investment Authority (OIA). The ceremony featured a welcome address by Omantel, followed by a keynote panel discussion addressing the industry's priorities, including the growing importance of intelligent networks, sustainable infrastructure and digital sovereignty. The sixth edition of GCCM hosted in Muscat brought together more than 1,000 delegates representing 350 companies from over 60 countries, reinforcing Oman’s position as a global telecommunications hub.
As the international capacity and wholesale industry respond to growing demand for AI-ready infrastructure, resilient networks and greater interconnection between global markets, Oman is well positioned to build on its established connectivity ecosystem. Hosting GCCM in Muscat brings the global carrier community closer to the infrastructure, partnerships and capabilities that have strengthened the Sultanate's international position, while opening further opportunities for collaboration and digital investment.
Source: Omantel Press Release
