Getting a SIM card in Oman is the most affordable way to stay connected when traveling in Oman. Luckily, it is easy to buy an Omani SIM card.
But how expensive are SIM cards in Oman?
You can purchase an Omani SIM card for as low as 2 OMR (5.20 USD) in the official stores of the operators (Omantel, Ooredoo, Friendi Mobile, Renna Mobile & RedBull Mobile). You can get 1 GB of data for one day for as little as 1 OMR (2.60 USD).
That is quite affordable. SIM cards in some other Middle Eastern countries are much more expensive.
But what about coverage, quality of service, packages, and everything else related to SIM cards?
Well, I will go over all those things in this guide. Here is everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Oman. Let's go.
Original publication: 24th of December 2019. Last updated: 12th of February 2021.
Table of Contents
Can I Buy a SIM Card in Oman?
Everybody visiting or residing in Oman can purchase an Omani SIM card from the five Omani operators.
Although some operators allow you to order SIM cards online, these can often only be paid for with an Omani debit or credit card.
Can I Use My Phone in Oman?
Oman uses GSM for its mobile telecommunications network. They use frequencies used in many regions around the world (Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania – ITU Regions 1 & 3).
However, these frequencies are not used in the Americas (North-, Central-, and South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2).
If you bought your phone in the Americas, if your device has not been unlocked, or your phone does not support the Omani frequencies, then you cannot use your phone in Oman.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Oman
Oman has five mobile operators:
- Omantel (Oman Mobile)
- Ooredoo Oman
- Friendi Mobile Oman (Ooredoo Oman MVNO)
- Renna Mobile (Omantel MVNO)
- RedBull Mobile Oman (Omantel MVNO)
The following frequencies are used by the Omani operators:
- 2G: 900 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2300 MHz (Band 40)
Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).
If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.
A Note About Ooredoo's Old Shababiah
There used to be another “MVNO” called Shababiah. It could not entirely be classified as an MVNO, as it was a brand operated by Ooredoo Oman that was focused on the Omani youth.
In 2020, Ooredoo Oman decided to transform the Shahabiah brand into its primary prepaid offering. This means that Shababiah is the name of Ooredoo Oman's prepaid brand that is available to everyone and not solely the (Omani) youth.
5G/NR in Oman
Both Omantel and Ooredoo Oman have established 5G/NR networks on 3500 MHz (n78). However, 5G/NR is only offered for residential broadband, not for mobile devices.
Ali Al Hashmi, the Senior Manager of Network Design at Omantel, noted that “We are ready from the network perspective, but individual mobile phones are not. For example, if you go to some of the areas, you may find 5G appearing as a network, but you will not be able to pick it up from your mobile as it does not yet support this feature”, as quoted by CommsUpdate.
Although such a statement has not been reported by Ooredoo Oman, 5G offerings can only be found under the Home tab on the Ooredoo Oman website menu and not under Mobile.
The Best Prepaid SIM Card in Oman
If you want to buy a SIM card in Oman, then Ooredoo is the best option. Although Ooredoo’s coverage is slightly worse than Omantel, they offer lower rates for their packages compared to Omantel.
SIM Card Registration in Oman
SIM card registration with your passport information is mandatory in Oman. It will be done at the point of sale.
Internet Censorship in Oman
Some parts of the web are blocked in Oman.
Unlike some other Middle Eastern countries, like Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, internet surveillance is not as prevalent in Oman as the aforementioned Kingdoms.
Websites that are inaccessible in Oman are pornographic sites, LBGTQ+ content, sites critical of Islam, and content related to illegal drugs.
Any website or tool that hides your IP address, like VPNs, is blocked too. However, it is technically not illegal to use a VPN in Oman.
To access blocked websites, protect your internet traffic, or use VoIP services (which are banned in Oman), I would recommend using a VPN, such as NordVPN or Surfshark.
VoIP Ban in Oman
VoIP services are blocked in Oman.
Examples of VoIP apps are voice calling with WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Skype.
One of the most cited reasons why VoIP has been banned in the Sultanate is that it would result in loss of (international) call and text revenues for Omantel and Ooredoo Oman.
Unless the VoIP service has servers located in Oman, the VoIP service will be blocked. VoIP calls with Google Talk, Viber, and Yahoo are possible in Oman through licensing deals.
Luckily, you can use VoIP services while using a VPN, such as NordVPN or Surfshark.
During the 2020 pandemic, the Omani Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) lifted the ban on VoIP services temporarily. It is unknown whether the ban will be reinstated at a later date or when that will be.
Oman Speeds, Internet Prices & Insights
Oman is a mostly deserted Sultanate. However, populated areas are covered by the Omani operators (although it could be 2G coverage, which is too slow for modern data browsing).
Mobile internet speeds in Oman are decent. Not overly fast, but not embarrassingly slow too.
The average mobile download speed in Oman is 39 Mbps, placing the Sultanate in the top 50 countries on the Speedtest Global Index.
For reference, the world average mobile download is around 36 Mbps, so Oman's speeds are slightly above the world average.
But what about data prices in Oman? Is mobile internet expensive in the Sultanate?
The average price for 1 GB of data in Oman is 4.58 USD, which is a bit more than the Middle Eastern average of 4.46 USD. The world average of 5.03 USD.
That is all according to Cable.co.uk.
At least the SIM card prices are low in the country.
Both Omantel and Ooredoo have held a duopoly in Oman. Although mobile services are not overly expensive in the Oman, the Omani government has decided that a third player is needed.
In September 2019, the Vodafone Group announced that they are planning on entering the Omani telecommunications market in a strategic partnership with Oman Future Telecommunications (OFT). A third operator's entrance should lead to more competition in Oman, and, hopefully, even lower prices.
Currency in Oman
Oman uses the Omani Rial with the symbol OMR (which will be used throughout this guide). Prices in Oman are listed in OMR, RO, or Bz. For example, 25 OMR is RO 25. For reference, below are some exchange rates between OMR and USD (US Dollars – Rounded):
- 1 OMR = 2.60 USD
- 10 OMR = 25.95 USD
- 100 OMR = 239.60 USD
For up-to-date OMR:USD exchange rates, search OMR to USD on Google, or replace USD with the currency you use.
If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Transferwise Borderless Account and Debit Card. Their fees are MUCH lower than banks, and credit card companies charge you (and Transferwise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks). I have saved literal HUNDREDS of Euros when using Transferwise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards. Open a Transferwise account FREE!
Omani Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Omantel, Ooredoo Oman, FRIENDi Mobile Oman, Renna Mobile, and RedBull Mobile Oman, and go through:
- Background information about the operators
- How to get a SIM card from each operator
- How to recharge your SIM card
- What type of data-featured packages are offered by the operators
What that being said, let's see what the Omani operators have to offer to us.
Omantel (Oman Mobile)
Omantel, also known as Oman Mobile, is Oman's market leader with a more than 55% market share. They used to be a monopoly before Ooredoo decided to compete with them.
Omantel also has the fastest mobile network in Oman, according to the 2019's Speedtest Awards Oman Fastest Mobile Network.
This is what you will learn about Omantel:
* Coverage
* How to Get an Omantel SIM Card & SIM Card Prices
* Recharging Options & Methods
* Internet Packages
* APN Settings
Omantel Coverage
Omantel has the best coverage throughout Oman.
Their coverage is slightly more extensive than the one of Ooredoo Oman.
Below are the 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE coverage maps taken from the Omantel coverage checker page.
How to get an Omantel SIM Card & Price
You can buy an Omantel SIM card, called Hayyak Prepaid, starting from 2 OMR in Omantel stores and authorized dealers. The starter pack includes 1.5 GB of data (valid for 10 days) and 1 OMR in credit. You can also get Omantel's data-only SIM card, called Hayyak Data, for 3 OMR with 2 GB for 15 days. Tourists and short-term visitors can get the Oman Tourist Pack costs 5 OMR with data and minutes and SMS for local and international use.
To recap, the following Omantel SIM cards are available:
- Hayyak Prepaid (standard SIM card)
- Hayyak Data (data-only SIM card)
- Omantel Tourist Pack (tourist SIM card)
Omantel SIM cards are available for purchase at Muscat International Airport.
Omantel Hayyak SIM Card Price and Availability
You can buy an Omantel SIM card, called Hayyak, for 2 OMR in Omantel stores and authorized dealers. The Hayyak SIM card will come with 1.5 GB (valid for 10 days) and 1 OMR in credit. It is also possible to get a Hayyak eSIM.
An Omantel Hayyak SIM card has an initial validity of 180 days. If you do not recharge for 180 days, the SIM card will be deactivated. Every recharge will extend your SIM card's validity by 180 days, regardless of the recharge denomination.
Omantel Hayyak eSIM
The Hayyak SIM card is available as an eSIM. You can use a Hayyak eSIM as long as your device is an Omantel/Hayyak supported device.
The following devices support Omantel/Hayyak eSIM:
- Huawei P40 5G
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- Samsung Galaxy Fold
- Samsung Galaxy S20
- Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Ultra 5G
Omantel Hayyak Data SIM Card Price and Availability
Omantel sells a Hayyak Data SIM card for 3 OMR that comes with 2 GB (valid for 15 days) in Omantel stores. Only Hayyak Data Only plans can be added to this SIM card.
Omantel Tourist SIM Card Price and Availability
Short-term visitors can buy the Omantel Tourist Pack costing 5 OMR, including 2 GB of data, unlimited WhatsApp, 50 local and international minutes (local and international), and 50 local and international SMS.
The Tourist Pack benefits are valid for 10 days, but the SIM card itself will be active for 30 days.
The 72 included countries for international minutes and SMS for the Omantel Tourist Pack are:
- Portugal
- Puerto Rico
- Qatar
- Russia
- Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands)
- Saudi Arabia (KSA)
- Slovakia (Slovak Republic)
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sri Lanka
- Sweden
- Taiwan
- Tajikistan
- Thailand
- Trinidad & Tobago
- Turkey
- Turkmenistan
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- United Kingdom (UK)
- United States (USA)
- Uzbekistan
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
If you want to resubscribe to the Tourist Pack, you can do so for another 5 OMR by dialing *314#. Text D to 90099 to check your Tourist Pack balance.
How to Top Up an Omantel SIM Card
Omantel recharge vouchers are sold in Omantel stores and many other stores like supermarkets, convenience stores, and gas stations, in denominations of 1 OMR, 3 OMR, 5 OMR, and 10 OMR. Each recharge extends the validity of your SIM card with 180 days.
It is also possible to recharge your Hayyak SIM card online (in denominations of 1 OMR, 2 OMR, 3 OMR, 5 OMR, 8 OMR, and 10 OMR), but this top-up method is limited to those with an Omani bank account.
To redeem your Omantel recharge voucher, dial *101*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *101*123456#.
To check your Hayyak balance, dial *100#.
Omantel Internet Internet Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers
Omantel has several types of plans, packages, and add-ons, which are:
- Hayyak Your Way (combo plan)
- Hayyak Mobile Internet Add-ons (data-only add-ons for Hayyak)
- New Hayyak Plans (combo plans)
- New Hayakk Mobile Internet Add-ons (data-only add-ons for New Hayyak)
- Unlimited social (social media plans)
- Hayyak Data only Plan (data-only plans for Hayyak Data)
Let's go through each of them. Click on the links above if you want to directly jump to a specific section.
Omantel Hayyak Your Way
The Hayyak Your Way bundles are combo plans that come with data, calls, and SMS. Some plans come with social media data for WhatsApp, Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, and Twitter.
The plans that do not come with minutes come with a feature called favorite numbers. You can make unlimited calls to your favorite numbers, which have to be Omantel numbers.
The following Hayyak Your Way plans are available, which can be activated by dialing *280#:
| Price | Data | Social Media Data | Minutes | Favorite Numbers | SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 OMR | 500 MB | N/A | 50 minutes | N/A | 50 SMS | 30 days |
| 5 OMR | 1 GB | N/A | 100 minutes | N/A | 100 SMS | 30 days |
| 7 OMR | 1 GB | 1 GB | N/A | 5 | N/A | 30 days |
| 10 OMR | 4 GB | 2 GB | N/A | 5 | N/A | 30 days |
| 15 OMR | 8 GB | 4 GB | N/A | 5 | N/A | 30 days |
You can get an additional 1 GB for 2 OMR for the 7 OMR, 10 OMR, and 15 OMR plans. You will get 500 MB for WhatsApp if you repurchase the 3 OMR plan and 1 GB if you repurchase the 5 OMR plan.
To add a favorite number, dial *285*1*PhoneNumber#. To remove a favorite number, dial *285*2*PhoneNumber#. To see your current list of favorite numbers, dial *258*0#. Be aware that changing favorite numbers will cost 0.2 OMR per change.
Omantel Hayyak Mobile Internet Add-ons
The Mobile Internet Add-ons are data-only bundles for Hayyak (not New Hayyak).
The following Mobile Internet Add-ons are available:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.2 OMR | 50 MB | 1 day | *241*1# |
| 0.5 OMR | 250 MB | 1 day | *141*500# |
| 0.5 OMR | 50 MB | 30 days | *141*50# |
| 1 OMR | 1 GB | 1 day | *141*24# |
| 2 OMR | 300 MB | 30 days | *141*300# |
| 2 OMR | Unlimited * | 1 day | *666*2*1*1# |
| 2 OMR | 2 GB | 2 days | *141*20# |
| 3 OMR | 1 GB | 30 days | *141*3# |
| 3 OMR | 2 GB | 7 days | *141*7# |
| 5 OMR | 2 GB | 30 days | *141*5# |
| 7 OMR | 3 GB | 30 days | *141*70# |
| 10 OMR | 5 GB | 30 days | *141*10# |
| 15 OMR | 10 GB | 30 days | *141*15# |
| 25 OMR | 30 GB | 30 days | *141*25# |
Omantel New Hayyak Plans
Omantel released the New Hayyak Plans, which are combo plans that come with data and minutes.
They are sold in these variants and can be activated by dialing *666#:
| Price | Data | Minutes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 OMR | 2 GB | 50 minutes | 7 days |
| 3 OMR | 1.5 GB | 15 minutes | 30 days |
| 4 OMR | 2 GB | 50 minutes | 30 days |
| 6 OMR | 4 GB | 150 minutes | 30 days |
| 10 OMR | 10 GB | 250 minutes | 30 days |
| 15 OMR | 18 GB | 500 minutes | 30 days |
Omantel New Hayyak Mobile Internet Add-ons
The Mobile Internet Add-ons are data-only bundles for New Hayyak (not Hayyak).
The following Mobile Internet Add-ons are available, which can be activated by dialing *666*2*1#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 0.2 OMR | 100 MB | 1 day |
| 1 OMR | 1 GB | 1 day |
| 2 OMR | Unlimited * | 1 day |
| 3 OMR | 2 GB | 7 days |
| 25 OMR | 30 GB | 30 days |
The Unlimited Social plans are unlimited data plans for WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Twitter & Facebook for both Hayyak and New Hayyak.
A fair-use limit of 10 GB applies to all Unlimited Social plans. Once you have reached 10 GB, your speeds will be throttled to 1 Mbps.
The following Unlimited Social plans are available, which can be activated on the Omantel app:
| Price | App | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 OMR | Unlimited | 7 days | |
| 1.5 OMR | Unlimited | 7 days | |
| 1.5 OMR | TikTok | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 1.5 OMR | Snapchat | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 1.5 OMR | Unlimited | 7 days | |
| 1.5 OMR | Unlimited | 7 days |
It is also possible to purchase an Unlimited Social plan by dialing *666#. However, you will be charged 2 OMR instead of 1.5 OMR through the USSD code compared to activating it on the Omantel app.
Omantel Hayyak Data Only Plans
The Hayyak Data Only Plans are data-only bundles for the Hayyak Data SIM card.
The following Hayyak Data Only plans are available:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 OMR | 3 GB | 15 days | *343*3# |
| 5 OMR | 6 GB | 30 days | *343*5# |
| 10 OMR | 14 GB | 45 days | *343*10# |
Omantel APN Settings
In most cases, your phone will retrieve the correct Omantel APN settings automatically. Text 4G to 91221 receive the correct APN settings.
If that does not work or if you need to enter it manually, then you need the following details (do not add anything not mentioned below):
- Name: Oman Mobile
- APN: taif
- Username: taif
- Password: taif
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the table of contents.
Ooredoo Oman
Ooredoo Oman, just Ooredoo, is the other main operator in Oman. They are smaller than Omantel, but they are only slightly behind Omantel. Ooredoo won the Speedtest Awards Oman Fastest Mobile Network during Q1-Q2 in 2018. However, Omantel won 2019‘s test.
This is what you will learn about Ooredoo:
* Coverage
* How to Get an Ooredoo SIM Card & SIM Card Prices
* Recharging Options & Methods
* Internet Packages
* APN Settings
Ooredoo Oman Coverage
Ooredoo has great coverage throughout Oman.
However, its coverage is faintly worse than Omantel's. Even then, you can expect outstanding coverage with Ooredoo.
Ooredoo has no coverage map on its website, so I will show you a map produced with the Speedtest app.
How to get an Ooredoo Oman SIM Card & Price
You can buy an Ooredoo SIM card, called New Shababiah, for 2 OMR, coming with 1 GB for 10 days or 2 OMR in credit in Ooredoo Stores or Muscat Airport. Short-term visitors can get the Ooredoo Visitor pack for 5 OMR with 4 GB, 50 local and international minutes, and 50 local and international SMS, or for 10 OMR with 10 GB, 50 local and international minutes, and 50 local and international SMS.
Below is a list of all Ooredoo SIM cards:
- New Shababiah (normal SIM card)
- Mousbak (old normal SIM card)
- Ooredoo Visitor Pack (tourist SIM card)
Click on links above to jump to the type of SIM card you are interested in.
Ooredoo New Shababiah
Shababiah Smart SIM cards are sold for 2 OMR and come with either 1 GB for 10 days OR 2 OMR in credit for 30 days. You have the option to choose which benefits you want. You can buy Ooredoo's New Shababiah Smart SIM cards in Ooredoo stores and from certified dealers.
Ooredoo Mousbak
You can buy a Mousbak SIM card, Ooredoo's old SIM card for 2 OMR in Ooredoo stores. A Mousbak SIM card comes with 2 OMR in credit that is valid for 30 days.
Ooredoo Visitor Pack
Tourists and travelers can purchase an Ooredoo tourist SIM card, called Ooredoo Visitor Pack, in Ooredoo stores and especially at Muscat International Airport.
Be aware that the salesperson at the airport may push you to buy an Ooredoo Visitor Pack instead of a regular SIM card.
The Ooredoo Visitor Pack comes in two variants:
| Price | Data | Minutes (local & international) | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 OMR | 4 GB | 50 minutes | 50 SMS | 10 days |
| 10 OMR | 10 GB | 50 minutes | 50 SMS | 15 days |
Although the Visitor Pack benefits are valid for up to 15 days, the SIM card itself will be valid for 60 days. The SIM card can be extended for another 60 days by recharging it once it has expired.
You are allowed to purchase normal plans after the Visitor Pack has expired.
Dial *141*377# to check your Visitor Pack balance.
How to Top Up an Ooredoo Oman SIM Card
Ooredoo recharge vouchers in denominations starting from 1 OMR to 8 OMR are sold in Ooredoo stores and many other retailers, such as grocery stores, convenience stores, and gas stations. You can get regular recharge cards, More Credit recharge cards, or More Internet recharge cards.
Ooredoo Recharge Cards
The standard recharge cards are sold all over Oman. They are sold in denominations of 1 OMR, 2 OMR, 4 OMR, and 8 OMR.
To top-up your Ooredoo SIM Card, dial *115*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *115*123456#
To check your Ooredoo balance, dial *102#.
Ooredoo More Credit Recharge Cards
The More Credit recharge method gives you bonus credit depending on how much you top-up. The bonus can be up to 25%. The total credit amount can be used to purchase an Ooredoo combo or data-only plan.
The following More Credit recharge options are available:
| Recharge | Bonus Credit | Total Credit | Credit Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 OMR | N/A | 1 OMR | N/A |
| 2 OMR | 0.2 OMR (10%) | 2.2 OMR | 10 days |
| 5 OMR | 1 OMR (20%) | 6 OMR | 20 days |
| 10 OMR | 2.5 OMR (25%) | 12.5 OMR | 25 days |
To top-up with More Credit, dial *115*2*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *115*2*123456#.
Dial *102*2# to check your More Credit balance.
Ooredoo More Internet Recharge Cards
The More Internet recharge method gives you data instead of credit (to purchase a plan).
The following More Internet options are available:
| Recharge | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 OMR | 300 MB | 10 days |
| 2 OMR | 1 GB | 10 days |
| 3 OMR | 1.5 GB | 30 days |
| 5 OMR | 3 GB | 30 days |
| 10 OMR | 12 GB | 30 days |
You may have to dial *141# to activate the 4G Superfast Feature when recharging with More Internet.
To top-up with More Internet, dial *115*3*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *115*3*123456#.
Dial *102*3# to check your More Credit balance.
Ooredoo Oman Internet Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers
Ooredoo has several types of combo and data-only plans. Some of these plans are specific to Shababiah or Mousbak.
The following plans are available:
- Shababiah Plans (combo plans for Shababiah)
- Shababiah Mix (customizable combo plans for Shabaiah)
- New Shababiah Internet Add-ons (data-only bundles for Shababiah)
- New Shababiah Digital Add-Ons (social media plans for Shababiah)
- Mousbak Plans (combo plans for Mousbak)
- Mousbak Data Bundles (data-only bundles for Mousbak)
Click on the links above to jump directly to the type of plan you are interested in.
Be aware that some plans exclusive to Shababiah, while others are exclusive to Mousbak. It will be clearly mentioned for what SIM card the plans can be used for.
Ooredoo Oman Shababiah Plans
The Shababiah plans are combo plans that come with data and minutes, only available to Shababiah SIM cards.
All Shababiah plans can be activated on the Ooredoo Oman App:
| Price | Data | Unlimited Social Media | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 OMR | 1.5 GB | No | 30 days |
| 5 OMR | 3 GB | No | 30 days |
| 7 OMR | 5 GB | No | 30 days |
| 10 OMR | 10 GB | No | 30 days |
| 12 OMR | 14 GB | Yes | 30 days |
| 15 OMR | 20 GB | No | 30 days |
You have the option to purchase a Shababiah plan as a one-time purchase or recurring purchase when buying a plan on the Ooredoo Oman app.
Ooredoo Oman Shababiah Mix
The Shababiah Mix plan allows you to make your own Shababiah plan, customized to your data and calling needs, only available to Shababiah SIM cards. You can choose the number of minutes you want and the amount of data for a whole month.
The local voice bundle starts from 40 minutes (1 OMR) to 1000 minutes (11 OMR), and the open data bundle starts from 1 GB (3 GB) to 100 GB (85 OMR).
These are your options that can be mixed:
- 1 OMR: 40 minutes
- 2 OMR: 100 minutes
- 3 OMR: 200 minutes
- 4 OMR: 300 minutes
- 6 OMR: 500 minutes
- 11 OMR: 1000 minutes
- 7 OMR: 3 GB
- 10 OMR: 6 GB
- 15 OMR: 10 GB
- 25 OMR: 20 GB
- 35 OMR: 35 GB
- 85 OMR: 100 GB
Do note that you are allowed to ONLY buy data OR ONLY minutes with the Shababiah Mix plan. You are not required to have both data and minutes.
Shahabiah Mix plans can be set up on the Ooredoo Oman App. Before finalizing the order, you get the choice to make this a recurring plan or a one-off plan.
Ooredoo Oman New Shababiah Internet Add-Ons
The New Shababiah Internet Add-ons can be used as an add-on to another active Shababiah plan or as a standalone data-only plan, only available to Shababiah SIM cards.
You have these 4 options:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 OMR | 1 GB | 1 day |
| 3 OMR | 1.5 GB | 30 days |
| 5 OMR | 3 GB | 30 days |
| 10 OMR | 12 GB | 30 days |
Shababiah Internet Add-ons can be purchased on the Ooredoo Oman app. You get the choice to make this a recurring plan or not (one-off purchase).
Ooredoo Oman New Shababiah Digital Add-Ons
The New Shababiah Digital Add-ons are packs that are valid for specific social apps, only available to Shababiah SIM cards.
The following options New Shababiah Digital Add-ons are available:
| Price | Data | Apps | Streaming Restrictions | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.2 OMR | Unlimited | Apple Music, Gaana & Saavn | N/A | 1 day |
| 0.5 OMR | Unlimited | YouTube & Vuclip | SD quality (480P) | 1 day |
| 3 OMR | 3 GB | WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat & Instagram | N/A | 30 days |
The New Shababiah Digital Add-Ons can be purchased on the Ooredoo app.
Ooredoo Oman Mousbak Plans
The Mousbak plans are combo plans that come with data, minutes, and SMS, only available to Mousbak SIM cards.
Minutes and SMS fall under one quota. For example, if “35 minutes/SMS” is mentioned, you could use 30 minutes and 5 SMS, 20 minutes and 15 SMS, or whatever combination you can think of, as long as you do not go over 35.
There are three Mousbak plans, but only two of them feature data:
| Price | Data | Minutes/SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 OMR | 50 MB | 75 minutes/SMS | 7 days | *141*202# |
| 3 OMR | 100 MB | 125 minutes/SMS | 7 days | *141*203# |
Mousbak plans auto-renew. Replace the first 2 after the second * with an 8 to cancel auto-renewal. For example, if the activation code is *141*202#, you would dial *141*802# to cancel auto-renewal.
Dial *141*332# to check your Mousbak plan balance.
Ooredoo Oman Mousbak Data Bundles
The Mousbak Data Bundles are data-only bundles, only available to Mousbak SIM cards.
The following Mousbak data bundles can be added:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code | Balance Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 OMR | 50 MB (WhatsApp only) | 7 days | *141*4*50# | *141*4*9# |
| 1 OMR | 1 GB | 1 day | *141*4*24# | *141*4*9# |
| 2 OMR | 2 GB | 2 days | *141*4*48# | *141*4*9# |
| 3 OMR | 1 GB | 30 days | *555*22# | *555*22*0# |
| 5 OMR | 3 GB | 7 days | *141*4*7# | *141*4*9# |
| 5 OMR | 2 GB | 30 days | *555*23# | *555*23*0# |
| 10 OMR | 6 GB | 30 days | *555*26# | *555*26*0# |
| 24 OMR | 10 GB | 30 days | *555*24# | *555*24*0# |
| 49 OMR | 30 GB | 30 days | *555*30# | *555*30*0# |
The Mousbak Data Bundles auto-renew. Add *0 before the last digit and # to cancel auto-renew. For example, if the activation code is *141*4*24#, you would dial *141*4*24*0#.
Ooredoo Oman APN Settings
In most cases, your phone will retrieve the correct Ooredoo Oman APN settings automatically. Text all to 1501 to receive the APN settings.
If that does not work or you need to enter it manually, then you need the following details (do not add anything not mentioned below):
- Name: Ooredoo
- APN: Ooredoo
- Username: test
- Password: test
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the table of contents.
FRIENDi Mobile Oman
FRIENDi Mobile Oman, just FRIENDi Mobile, is an MVNO using the Ooredoo Oman network. They are the largest MVNO and the third-largest operator in Oman.
This is what you will learn about FRIENDi Mobile:
* Coverage
* How to Get a FRIENDi Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Recharging Options & Methods
* Internet Packages
* APN Settings
FRIENDi Mobile Oman Coverage
FRIENDi Mobile is an Ooredoo MVNO, meaning FRIENDi Mobile uses the Ooredoo network and does not have its own antennas. Head to the Ooredoo Coverage section to learn what you can expect, coverage-wise, when getting a FRIENDi Mobile SIM card.
How to get a FRIENDi Mobile Oman SIM Card & Price
You can get a FRIENDi Mobile SIM card, called Super SIM, for free in FRIENDi Shops, Muscat International Airport, select supermarkets and hypermarkets, and a few other vendors.
The Super SIM card often comes with starter benefits, but these benefits change every few months.
How to Top Up a FRIENDi Mobile Oman SIM Card
FRIENDi Mobile reload cards are sold in denominations of 0.5 OMR, 1 OMR, 3 OMR, 5 OMR, and 10 OMR in FRIENDI mobile stores, various supermarkets, and convenience stores. It is also possible to recharge online.
You can check your FRIENDI Mobile balance by dialing *201#. Dial *250# to check your data balance.
FRIENDi Mobile Oman Internet Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers
FRIENDi Mobile offers several types of plans, which are:
- Freedom Mix Plans (combo plans with no expiry)
- Freedom Data Plans (data-only plans with no expiry)
- Saver Mix Plans (combo plans)
- Saver Data Plans (24-hour data-only plans)
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
FRIENDi Mobile Oman Freedom Mix Plans
The Freedom Mix plans are data-only plans that come with anytime data and night-time data. The plans and your allowances have unlimited validity, as long as your SIM card is active.
The following 4 Freedom Mix Plans are available:
| Price | Data | Nighttime Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 OMR | 500 MB | 500 MB | Unlimited | *340*1# |
| 3 OMR | 750 MB | 1000 MB | Unlimited | *340*2# |
| 3.5 OMR | 1 GB | 1 GB | Unlimited | *340*3# |
| 5 OMR | 1500 MB | 2000 MB | Unlimited | *340*4# |
The nighttime data allowance applies from 23:00-6:00 (11 PM-6 AM).
The Freedom Data Plans are set to auto-renew when you are out of data. You can change the auto-renew settings by dialing *130*1#.
Dial *220# to check your Freedom Mix Plan data balance.
FRIENDi Mobile Oman Freedom Data Plans
The Freedom Data plans are data-only plans with no expiry, as long as your SIM card is active.
The following Freedom Data Plans are available:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 OMR | 100 MB | Unlimited | *320*1# |
| 1 OMR | 250 MB | Unlimited | *320*2# |
| 2 OMR | 1 GB | Unlimited | *320*8# |
| 3 OMR | 1.5 GB | Unlimited | *320*3# |
| 3.5 OMR | 2 GB | Unlimited | *320*5# |
| 4 OMR | 2.5 GB | Unlimited | *320*10# |
| 5 OMR | 3.5 GB | Unlimited | *320*4# |
| 8 OMR | 5 GB | Unlimited | *320*11# |
| 10 OMR | 8 GB | Unlimited | *320*12# |
The Freedom Data Plans are set to auto-renew when you are out of data. You can change the auto-renew settings by dialing *130*1#.
Dial *250# to check your Freedom Data Plan data balance.
FRIENDi Mobile Oman Saver Plans
The Saver Plans are combo plans that come minutes and SMS.
Unlike the Freedom Plans, Saver Plans do expire. The following Saver Plans are available:
| Price | Data | Minutes | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 OMR | 3 GB | N/A | 7 days | *350*2# |
| 5 OMR | 3 GB | 50 minutes | 30 days | *601*5# |
| 7 OMR | 5 GB | 150 minutes | 30 days | *601*7# |
| 10 OMR | 10 GB | 200 minutes | 30 days | *601*10# |
| 12 OMR | 14 GB | 300 minutes | 30 days | *601*12# |
| 16 OMR | 20 GB | 500 minutes | 30 days | *601*16# |
Dial *250# to check your Saver Plan data balance.
FRIENDi Mobile Oman Saver Data Plans
The Saver Data Plans are data-only plans that are valid for 24 hours. The following two Saver Data Plans are available:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 OMR | 1 GB | 24 hours | *320*7# |
| 2 OMR | Unlimited | 24 hours | *601*70# |
Dial *250# to check your Saver Data Plan Plan data balance.
FRIENDi Mobile Oman APN Settings
In most cases, your phone will retrieve the correct FRIENDi Mobile Oman APN settings automatically. If you need to enter it manually, then you need the following details (do not add anything not mentioned below):
- Name: FRIENDi
- APN: net
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the table of contents.
Renna mobile
Renna mobile is Renna's mobile brand, a supermarket chain in Oman, operating as an Omantel MVNO.
This is what you will learn about Renna mobile:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Renna Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Recharging Options & Methods
* Internet Packages
* APN Settings
Renna Mobile Coverage
Renna Mobile is an Omantel MVNO, meaning Renna Mobile uses the Omantel network and does not have its own antennas. Head to the Omantel Coverage section to learn what you can expect, coverage-wise, when getting a Renna Mobile SIM card.
How to get a Renna Mobile SIM Card & Price
You can get a Renna Mobile SIM card, called Renna SIM, for 2 OMR in Renna stores and from other vendors. The SIM card comes with 1 GB for 30 days.
How to Top Up a Renna Mobile SIM Card
Renna Mobile vouchers are sold in denominations of 0.5 OMR, 1 OMR, 3 OMR, 5 OMR, and 7 OMR in Renna stores and many other stores. EVD vouchers (eVouchers) are available from 0.5 OMR to 20 OMR. Recharging online with an Oman-issued debit or credit card can be done with reload amounts from 0.5 OMR to 50 OMR.
To redeem your Renna mobile voucher, dial *180*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *180*123456#.
Dial *181# to check your Renna mobile balance.
Renna Mobile Internet Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers
Renna Mobile has several types of bundles, which are:
- Combo Plans (combo bundles)
- Data Bundles (data-only bundles)
- Day – Night Data Bundles (data-only bundles with nighttime allowance)
- Extra Data (data add-ons)
Click on the links above to jump to the package you are interested in.
Renna Mobile Combo Plans
The Combo plans are plans that come with data and minutes.
The following Combo Plans are available:
| Price | Data | Minutes | Also for International Use? | Validity | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 OMR | 1 GB | 25 minutes | Yes, for Bangladesh, India & Pakistan | 30 days | *181*1875# |
| 10 OMR | 2 GB | 200 minutes | No | 30 days | *181*1730# |
Renna Mobile Data Bundles
The Data Bundles are standard data-only bundles. The following Data Bundles are available:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.3 OMR | 100 MB | 3 Days | *181*001# |
| 0.5 OMR | 200 MB | 3 Days | *181*001# |
| 1 OMR | 1 GB | 1 Day | *181*111# |
| 1 OMR | 350 MB | 7 Days | *181*001# |
| 2 OMR | 750 MB | 14 Days | *181*2000# |
| 3 OMR | 1.5 GB | 30 Days | *181*3005# |
| 3.5 OMR | 2 GB | 30 Days | *181*3505# |
| 4 OMR | 2.5 GB | 30 Days | *181*4005# |
| 5 OMR | 3.5 GB | 30 Days | *181*5005# |
| 8 OMR | 6 GB | 30 Days | *181*8005# |
| 10 OMR | 10 GB | 30 Days | *181*10005# |
| 15 OMR | 18 GB | 30 Days | *181*15005# |
| 20 OMR | 25 GB | 30 Days | *181*20005# |
Dial *181*52# to check your Data Bundle allowance.
Renna Mobile Day – Night Data Bundles
The Day – Night Data Bundles are data-only bundles that come with a dedicated nighttime allowance. Nighttime data allowance is used between 23:00-5:59 (11 PM-5:59 AM).
The following Day – Night Data bundles are available:
| Price | Data | Night Data | Validity | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 OMR | 1 GB | 700 MB | 30 days | *181*2002# |
| 3 OMR | 1.75 GB | 1000 MB | 30 days | *181*3002# |
| 8 OMR | 7 GB | 4 GB | 30 days | *181*8002# |
Dial *181*52# to check your Day – Night Data allowance.
Renna Mobile Extra Data
The Extra Data bundles are data add-ons to existing Renna mobile plans.
The following Extra Data bundles are available, which can be activated by dialing *181*54#:
| Price | Data |
|---|---|
| 0.10 OMR | 50 MB |
| 0.50 OMR | 300 MB |
Renna Mobile APN Settings
- Name: Renna Internet
- APN: renna-internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the table of contents.
RedBull Mobile Oman
RedBull Mobile Oman, just RedBull Mobile, is the latest MVNO in Oman, which started in 2019. It is an Omantel MVNO. RedBull Mobile is focused on the Omani youth, but everyone can buy their SIM cards.
This is what you will learn about RedBull Mobile:
* Coverage
* How to Get a RedBull Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Recharging Options & Methods
* Internet Packages
RedBull Mobile Oman Coverage
RedBull Mobile is an Omantel MVNO, meaning RedBull Mobile uses the Omantel network and does not have its own antennas. Head to the Omantel Coverage section to learn what you can expect, coverage-wise, when getting a RedBull Mobile SIM card.
How to get a RedBull Mobile Oman SIM Card & Price
You can get a RedBull Mobile SIM card for free in any RedBull Mobile store and from many other vendors. However, you are required to select a plan, which starts from 2 OMR.
How to Top Up a RedBull Mobile Oman SIM Card
Topping up your RedBull Mobile SIM card can be done with a voucher card, sold in denominations of 0.5 OMR to 10 OMR, that has to be redeemed online. Or you can use the e-recharge feature.
Dial *600# to check your RedBull Mobile balance.
RedBull Mobile Oman Internet Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers
RedBull Mobile has combo plans with data, unlimited WhatsApp, unlimited on-net calls, and SMS.
The following plans are available, which can be activated on the RedBull Mobile App:
| Price | Data | Unlimited WhatsApp | Local Minutes | On-Net SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 OMR | 1 GB | Yes | N/A | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 4 OMR | 2 GB | Yes | 100 minutes* | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 6 OMR | 4 GB | Yes | 150 minutes | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 10 OMR | 14 GB | Yes | N/A | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 15 OMR | 24 GB | Yes | N/A | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 20 OMR | 30 GB | Yes | N/A | Unlimited | 30 days |
RedBull Mobile Oman Data Add-Ons
The Data Add-ons are data add-ons to active RedBull Mobile plans. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
The following Data-Add Ons are available, which can be activated on the RedBull Mobile app:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5 OMR | 250 MB | Until the active plan expires |
| 1 OMR | 600 MB | Until the active plan expires |
| 1 OMR | 1 GB | 1 day (auto-renews) |
| 1.5 OMR | 1 GB | Until the active plan expires |
The Social Data Add-Ons are add-ons for Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, and WhatsApp combined or one of these social media apps separately. The prices are the same regardless of the bundle you choose.
The following Social Data Add-Ons are available, which can be activated on the RedBull Mobile App:
| Price | Data | Apps | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 OMR | 250 MB | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and WhatsApp combined OR individually | Until the active plan expires |
| 1 OMR | 600 MB | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and WhatsApp combined OR individually | Until the active plan expires |
| 1.5 OMR | 1 GB | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and WhatsApp combined OR individually | Until the active plan expires |
Jump back to the table of contents.
Other Ways to Get Online When Traveling in Oman
So far, you have learned that Omani SIM cards are quite affordable, so are the packages offered by the Omani operators.
There is a lot of choice in operators and even more choice in the type of plan you want.
However, you may have reasons not to buy Omani SIM cards or local SIM cards in general. One of the reasons could be dealing with SIM card registration in every country you visit or having to locate a store where they have SIM cards available.
The video below discusses a few reasons why getting an Omani SIM card may not be for you.
Fortunately, getting an Omani SIM card is not the only way to stay connected when in the Sultanate – you have other options.
International Roaming
Suppose you are from a GCC country or have a GCC-issued SIM card (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia & the United Arab Emirates). In that case, there is a big chance that your operator will offer attractive roaming packages when visiting GCC countries, like Oman.
Many other Muslim-majority countries will offer reasonable roaming rates for other Muslim-majority countries, such as Egypt, Libya, Afghanistan, and Algeria. Make sure to explore your roaming options.
One of the reasons why you may want to roam in Oman and other countries is that it is more convenient than buying a local prepaid SIM card all the time.
I talk about the benefits of international roaming in the video below.
Be aware that international roaming has its downsides too. You will often get much slower speeds as a roaming than as a proper customer of the operator.
The video below discussed a few more reasons why roaming can be disadvantageous for your situation.
But most importantly, international roaming is expensive. It has always been, and it will continue to be (which is why you searched for buying an Omani SIM card, not roaming in Oman).
The video below explains why roaming is so unreasonably expensive.
International SIM Cards or Travel SIM Cards
International SIM cards and travel SIM cards are interesting concepts. They allow you to use the SIM card in multiple countries, just as if you were roaming, but are often (much) cheaper than international roaming.
International SIM cards are great for frequent travelers who cannot be bothered to purchase a SIM card in every nation they visit, like business travelers. Travel SIM cards are useful to those visiting multiple countries in one region in quick succession.
There are many international SIM cards and travel SIM cards sellers out there, and many are outright bad or expensive. But there are a few that I recommend and use from time to time (mostly for testing purposes – local SIM cards are still my preferred option to stay connected).
Right now, my favorite international SIM card is Surfroam, whose SIM card I bring to every country I visit. Travel SIM cards from SimOptions and SimCorner have always worked well and have been reasonably priced.
You can learn more about those SIM cards and international SIM cards in general on this page.
Mobile hotspots, or pocket WIFI, are small devices that connect to the local operators of the country you are visiting. Mobile hotspots are ideal for families or those traveling in a large group, as they allow you to connect multiple devices to one hotspot without the need of each traveler having to buy a SIM card.
You can either buy a mobile hotspot or rent one.
Free WIFI Networks
Imagine not having to pay for internet while traveling. Well, you can by using free WIFI networks. This one does not need an explanation.
The main issue with free WIFI networks, or WIFI networks in general, is that they are not mobile. As in, they do not travel with you.
Suppose you leave the coffee shop that offered free WIFI to visit an attraction. In that case, you may not have a connection at all, especially on your way to the new destination.
In Oman, free WIFI networks are readily available in Muscat. The same for other large cities. Expect the connections to be slow, especially when many users are on it.
Do note free WIFI networks are prime targets for bad people to steal your data for, well, not-nice activities.
That is why I recommend using a VPN when connected to free WIFI hotspots or any network that is not your home network. Moreover, you can bypass the country's internet censorship as well.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Oman
Getting a SIM card from Ooredoo (great coverage and cheaper Omantel) would do you well when considering an Omani SIM card. Make sure to consider the MVNOs too!
Local Prepaid SIM Cards in Other Middle Eastern Countries
Visiting other countries in the Middle East? Check out my Middle Eastern SIM card buying guide, covering other Middle Eastern countries, such as:
Going to other places around the world? Then you should also check out my sim card buying guides for other destinations around the world.
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
Support Phone Travel Wiz
It takes a lot of time to analyze, translate, and review the SIM card options worldwide (especially to test them out).
Your support helps me keep producing impartial content by eliminating the need to recommend international SIM cards as the best local SIM card (but some of them CAN be useful)
Every Ko-Fi donation, one-time or monthly, helps me to spend more time creating local SIM card buying guides.
Check Out My Resource Page
Looking for the best companies and gadgets to enhance your travel experience? Check out my travel resources page for the best companies to use when you travel!
Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises, and accommodation.
Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!
Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling
Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling?
In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services, and products I have for this site and my YouTube channel.
If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!
Learn About Your Phone Travel Options
You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally.
Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks
I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!
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Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!