MUSCAT: Starlink’s fixed telecommunications services are now officially available in Oman, marking a significant step forward in bridging connectivity gaps across the Sultanate of Oman’s rugged and hard-to-reach regions.
The service aims to enhance Internet access in areas where traditional infrastructure development - such as the installation of communication towers - is challenging due to difficult terrain.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) recently granted Starlink a Class 1 licence to operate in Oman. This licence enables Starlink to offer broadband Internet services throughout Oman, aligning with the government’s goals of expanding digital infrastructure and fostering innovation across all governorates. The service is expected to play a critical role in connecting telecommunications towers in geographically isolated regions, especially benefiting key economic sectors like oil and gas, mining, tourism and agriculture.
According to details available on Starlink’s official website, residential services in Muscat will be priced at RO 30 per month. Customers will incur a one-time hardware installation cost ranging between RO 80 and RO 160, depending on the equipment selected. Starlink has also introduced separate business packages tailored to meet the needs of corporate clients and larger operations.
The satellite Internet service enables high-speed, low-latency connectivity that supports streaming, video conferencing, online gaming and remote work - services that are often unreliable or unavailable in remote areas. Starlink also offers a compact and portable user kit that easily fits into a backpack. Designed for flexibility, the kit includes a built-in Wi-Fi router, has low power consumption and operates using DC power input, delivering download speeds exceeding 100 Mbps.
Starlink is operated by Starlink Services, LLC, a global telecommunications provider wholly owned by SpaceX, the American aerospace company founded by Elon Musk. The satellite Internet constellation currently provides coverage to over 100 countries and territories, revolutionising access to digital connectivity in both urban and remote regions.
Canada was the first country outside the US to approve the use of Starlink. On November 6, 2020, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada granted regulatory approval for the Starlink low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation.
In another notable development, Starlink expanded its reach into aviation. On October 22, 2024, Qatar Airways launched the first Starlink-equipped Boeing 777 aircraft on a flight from Doha to London, offering passengers enhanced onboard Internet speed and reliability. This milestone underscores Starlink’s growing presence across various industries and modes of transport, including land, sea and air.
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