Overview
The ITU’s ICT Development Index (IDI) and related benchmarks such as the UN E-Government Development Index measure a country’s information and communication technology infrastructure, usage, and skills. These indices are increasingly important as digital transformation becomes central to economic competitiveness, government efficiency, and social inclusion.
Oman’s Position
Oman ranks in the upper-middle tier on ICT development measures, typically placing between 50th and 65th globally. Mobile broadband penetration exceeds 100 percent, and fixed broadband coverage has expanded significantly. The e.oman initiative has driven government digitisation, with most public services now available online. However, challenges remain in digital skills depth, cybersecurity frameworks, and technology sector employment.
Regional Comparison
The UAE leads the GCC in ICT development, consistently ranking in the global top 15 on e-government indices. Saudi Arabia has accelerated rapidly through its National Digital Transformation initiative. Bahrain’s compact geography enables near-universal high-speed connectivity. Qatar invests heavily in smart city infrastructure. Oman’s digital infrastructure is competitive, but the translation into a thriving digital economy lags behind UAE and Saudi benchmarks.
Trajectory
Oman’s Digital Transformation Strategy, aligned with Vision 2040, targets significant improvement across all ICT dimensions. Priority areas include 5G network rollout, cloud computing infrastructure, data centre development, digital skills training, and cybersecurity capacity building. The Oman Broadband Company’s fibre network expansion and the growth of tech startups through the Oman Technology Fund signal positive momentum.