Oman is a charming country located in the Arabian Peninsula. It attracts millions of visitors every year with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Having Ooredoo SIM cards and eSIM is crucial for staying connected with loved ones back home or accessing maps, translations, and more while exploring Oman. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about getting Ooredoo SIM cards and eSIM during your Oman visit.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts About Ooredoo
Ooredoo is one of two major telecom operators in Oman, along with Omantel. Here are some key things to know about Ooredoo:
- Founded in 2004
- Full company name is Ooredoo Oman Q.S.C.
- Offer a wide range of telecommunications services, including mobile voice calls, SMS, mobile data, fixed-line services, broadband internet, and enterprise solutions.
- Over 99% population coverage on its advanced 4G and 4G+ networks across Oman.
- Provide a variety of mobile plans to suit different customer needs, including prepaid and postpaid options.
- Support eSIM activation for compatible phones, providing convenience and flexibility.
- Over 185 retail stores and 50,000 recharge outlets across Oman, it’s easy to find an Ooredoo branch or shop to purchase/recharge your SIM or eSIM.
II. Why Ooredoo When You’re Exploring Oman-Coverage and Speed
When deciding which telecom operator to choose in Oman, it’s useful to consider network coverage and speeds. Here’s why Ooredoo stands out:
1. Ooredoo Coverage in Oman
- With its extensive 4G network reaching over 99% of the population, Ooredoo offers reliable high-speed connectivity almost everywhere you’ll travel in Oman.
- The coverage is generally extensive, but specific coverage areas may vary.
- According to Opensignal report for July 2023, Ooredoo’s 5G video experience score was 71.4 points, which was 2.1 points lower than Omantel’s score of 73.5 points.
- Ooredoo was one of the joint winners for voice app experience and 5G voice app experience.
2. Ooredoo Speed
The Opensignal report for July 2023 indicates that:
- Ooredoo tied with Omantel for second place in terms of overall download speed experience. Both operators had scores of 34-34.9Mbps.
- Ooredoo’s upload speed experience was 8.6Mbps, which was 4.2Mbps lower than Vodafone’s score of 12.8Mbps.
- Ooredoo had an average 5G download speed of 182.6Mbps, which was 21.3Mbps slower than Omantel’s score of 203.9Mbps.
- However, Ooredoo was the outright winner of the 5G upload speed award with a score of 21.1Mbps, leading Omantel’s 16.9Mbps.
Ooredoo boasts the fastest mobile internet speeds in Oman, ensuring lightning-quick file downloads, seamless video streaming, and rapid web browsing for its users.
III. Ooredoo Connectivity Options for Travelers to Oman
Ooredoo caters to all kinds of visitors with differing connectivity needs. Here are the main options to consider:
| Connectivity Option | Pros | Cons |
| Prepaid SIM Cards | - Affordable and convenient | - Limited data and calling options |
| - No contract commitment | - Need to purchase and activate a SIM card | |
| - Easy availability at Ooredoo stores and retailers | - May require unlocking your phone for compatibility | |
| - Option to choose from various data packages | - Limited coverage in remote or rural areas | |
| Postpaid Plans | - Higher data and calling allowances | - Requires a contract and credit check |
| - Option for international roaming | - Can be more expensive than prepaid options | |
| - Access to additional services and benefits | - Limited coverage in remote or rural areas | |
| - Flexible payment options (monthly billing) | - Need to submit identification and address proof | |
| eSIM | - Eliminates the need for a physical SIM card | - Limited availability in compatible devices |
| - Allows for easy switching between multiple networks | - Initial setup and activation may require assistance | |
| - No need to worry about losing or misplacing a SIM card | - Limited coverage in remote or rural areas | |
| - Can be activated remotely without visiting a store | - Compatibility may vary depending on device and region | |
| Wi-Fi Hotspots | - Wide availability in public places (hotels, cafes, etc.) | - Limited range and coverage |
| - Can be cost-effective (some may offer free access) | - Relies on the availability of Wi-Fi networks | |
| - Can connect multiple devices simultaneously | - Requires a stable Wi-Fi connection for optimal speed | |
| Mobile Data Plans | - Reliable and consistent connectivity | - Limited coverage in remote or rural areas |
| - Suitable for travelers who require constant internet | - May have usage limitations or fair usage policies | |
| - Flexibility to choose data packages based on needs | - Can be relatively expensive for heavy data usage | |
| - Option for 5G connectivity in select areas | - Require compatible devices for optimal performance |
If you’re only in Oman for a short while and don’t need heaps of data, your best bet is to grab an Ooredoo eSIM Oman. If you’re thinking of hanging around Oman for a while or you’re a big data user, getting yourself an Ooredoo SIM Card in advance or grabbing a data pass might just be the savvy move.
IV. Best Ooredoo SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
Ooredoo’s prepaid and postpaid SIMs have something for every visitor. Here are top options with pricing:
| Prepaid Plan | Data Allowance | Call Allowance | SMS Allowance | Validity | Price (USD) |
| Shababiah | 10 GB | 100 minutes | 1000 SMS | 7 days | $7 |
| Hayyak | 1 GB | 50 minutes | 50 SMS | 10 days | $2.5 |
| Mousbak | 2 GB | 100 minutes | 100 SMS | 30 days | $5 |
| Shahry | 10 GB | 200 minutes | 200 SMS | 30 days | $10 |
| 5GB Data Pack | 5 GB | - | - | 30 days | $5 |
| 10GB Data Pack | 10 GB | - | - | 30 days | $10 |
It’s important to assess your specific requirements in terms of data, call, and SMS usage, as well as the duration of your visit. Consider the activities you plan to engage in and the extent of your reliance on mobile connectivity.
V. Does Ooredoo Support eSIM in Oman?
Fortunately, Ooredoo introduced eSIM support in Oman fairly recently. So if you have an increasingly popular eSIM compatible device like latest iPhones or Samsungs, you can leverage eSIM functionality here for added convenience.
Choosing an eSIM option opens up some great usage advantages:
- Avoid physical SIM swap hassles
- Digitally switch data plans as needed
- Use home country eSIM alongside
- Great for dual SIM devices
- More reliable connection
So, if you have an eSIM ready device, leverage it while visiting Oman for the added benefits.
If you’re thinking about getting an eSIM for Ooredoo in Oman, the eSIM from esimoman.com could be a fantastic option. They provide a range of data plans, allowing you to select the ideal plan without dealing with costly roaming fees.
Enjoy 7 days of Oman data from $4.60. No roaming fees with 1-3GB using the Oman eSIM 7 Day Plan. Buy now for hassle-free connectivity during your trip!:
VI. Where can You Buy an Ooredoo SIM card and eSIM?
It’s super convenient to find Ooredoo stores or retail outlets to purchase your new SIM cards and eSIM when visiting Oman.
1. Where to buy Ooredoo SIM Card in Oman
- Ooredoo Stores: Ooredoo has official stores located throughout Oman where you can purchase a SIM card. These stores are typically found in major cities and towns.
- Ooredoo Authorized Retailers: There are numerous authorized retailers across Oman that sell Ooredoo SIM cards. These retailers can be found in shopping malls, electronic stores, and other retail outlets.
- Airports: Many airports in Oman have kiosks or shops where you can buy a SIM card upon arrival. Look for Ooredoo or mobile service provider counters at the airport.
- Supermarkets and Convenience Stores: Some supermarkets and convenience stores in Oman may sell Ooredoo SIM cards. Check with popular chains or local stores near your location.
- Online: Ooredoo also provides the option to purchase SIM cards online through their official website or mobile app. You can have the SIM card delivered to your desired location or pick it up from a designated point.
2. Where to buy Ooredoo eSIM in Oman
- Ooredoo Stores: Ooredoo’s official stores in Oman typically offer eSIM activation services. Visit one of their stores and inquire about purchasing an eSIM.
- Ooredoo Authorized Retailers: Some authorized retailers of Ooredoo may also provide eSIM services. Check with local electronic stores or mobile retailers that carry Ooredoo products.
- Ooredoo Website: Ooredoo’s official website may offer the option to purchase an eSIM online. Visit their website and navigate to the eSIM section to explore the availability and purchase process.
- Ooredoo Mobile App: Download the official Ooredoo mobile app from your device’s app store. Some versions of the app may have an option to purchase and activate an eSIM directly within the app.
- esimoman.com: Provide a range of eSIM plans for tourists with affordable price.
Uncover seamless adventures in Oman with a digital eSIM. Say farewell to pesky roaming charges, just buy online and link up in no time. Roam around with rapid data starting at only $5. Snag your eSIM today!
VII. How to activate Ooredoo SIM cards and eSIM in Oman?
Activating a new Ooredoo SIM cards and eSIM when visiting Oman takes just minutes with easy processes:
1. How to use Ooredoo SIM Card in Oman
- Purchase a SIM card from an authorized Ooredoo retailer or store.
- Insert the SIM card into your mobile device.
- Power on your device and wait for it to detect the Ooredoo network.
- You may receive an SMS with instructions for activation.
- If prompted, enter the PIN code provided with the SIM card.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the activation process.
- Once activated, you should have access to voice, data, and SMS services on the Ooredoo network.
2. How to activate Ooredoo eSIM Oman
- Install the eSIM
- Activate the eSIM
- Set up the eSIM
- Start using the eSIM
Please check your detailed instructions below:
And you’re all set! Shift data plans or enable roaming digitally going forward.
VIII. Oman Ooredoo Call & SMS Rates
Ooredoo prepaid and postpaid plans come with varying bundled local and international calling rates. But extras are priced reasonably well too:
| Service | Call Rates (per minute) | SMS Rates (per SMS) |
| Ooredoo to Ooredoo (On-net) | $0.05 | $0.01 |
| Ooredoo to Other Local Networks | $0.05 | $0.01 |
| Ooredoo to International Numbers | Rates vary by country | $0.15 - $0.50 |
| Local SMS (Within Oman) | $0.02 | $0.01 |
| International SMS | Rates vary by country | $0.15 - $0.50 |
So Ooredoo calling and messaging rates are quite pocket-friendly overall. Even without bundles, pay-as-you-go rates aren’t too expensive.
IX. Useful USSD code for Ooredoo SIM Cards and eSIM
Ooredoo supports various USSD access codes to check balance, swap plans or enable services directly on your phone. No need to call customer care or visit app/website.
Here are handy USSD codes all tourists should know:
- *141#: Check your main account balance.
- 1411#: Check your data balance.
- 1412#: Check your voice minutes balance.
- 1413#: Check your SMS balance.
- 1415#: Check your international balance.
- 1416#: Check your bonus balance.
- 1418#: Check your Shahry plan balance.
- 1419#: Check your Hayyak plan balance.
- 14110#: Check your Mousbak plan balance.
- 14111#: Check your Shababiah plan balance.
- 14112#: Check your Super Card balance.
Digitally activate or deactivate international roaming using USSD codes. No need to visit store.
Handy when you want to quickly check data usage, change packs, or enable roaming services on your Ooredoo SIM Cards and eSIM.
X. How to top-up Ooredoo SIM Cards and eSIM
It’s easy to recharge your Ooredoo prepaid credit or data packs while visiting Oman using various convenient methods:
- Retail Outlets: Walk into any of 50,000+ authorized sales outlets across Oman to instantly recharge your prepaid SIM via: Cash payments or Credit/Debit cards
- Online Payments: Recharge prepaid SIMs digitally via Ooredoo website or My Ooredoo App using: International credit/debit cards or Apple Pay on iOS app
- Auto Pay: Enable automatic payments on My Ooredoo app using internationally accepted payment methods. This automatically tops-up your prepaid SIM as soon as balance falls below a set threshold.
- International Top-up: Friends or family abroad with international credit card can easily top-up your Ooredoo SIM remotely. Provide your mobile number for instant international recharge.
Multiple convenient recharge options for anywhere tourist accessibility. Never lets your prepaid SIM run dry even when exploring remote parts of Oman.
XI. FAQs about Ooredoo in Oman
Does Ooredoo offer eSIM in Oman?
Yes, Ooredoo launched eSIM support across Oman in 2022. Just scan QR code on compatible smartphones to digitally activate plans.
What documents do I need when purchasing Ooredoo SIM?
Typically, just passport copy required. Some prepaid plans require passport photocall verification.
Can I recharge Ooredoo SIM internationally?
Absolutely. Provide your Ooredoo mobile number for secure instant top-ups from anywhere globally using international credit/debit card.
Does Ooredoo SIM work in Musandam?
Yes, Ooredoo offers excellent coverage and speeds in Musandam governorate through roaming arrangements.
How can I check data usage on my SIM?
Dial USSD code *100# to check prepaid balance or *140*1# to view plan details including data used.
XII. Final words
Ooredoo SIM cards and eSIM are “your passport” to seamless connectivity while visiting and exploring Oman. With blanket nationwide 4G coverage, ultrafast speeds, and hassle-free prepaid and postpaid plans, Ooredoo has any visiting tourist covered. And multiple convenient recharge options ensure you won’t ever run out of credit even when in remote locales. So make the most of your Omani adventure without worrying about mobile coverage by getting an Ooredoo SIM or eSIM right after you land.
