Muscat – Consumers in Oman will now benefit from greater transparency and fairness in telecommunication services following introduction of new retail tariff regulations by Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). The rules aim to curb hidden charges, misleading claims and unfair practices, while safeguarding consumer rights.

All licensed operators are required to clearly display package prices on websites, mobile apps and points of sale, ensuring accessibility for all, including people with special needs. Companies are prohibited from making unverified claims such as ‘best network’ or ‘lowest prices’, and services cannot be advertised as ‘free’ unless no hidden fees or conditions exist.

Subscribers must give explicit consent for all subscriptions, renewals, upgrades or downgrades, and receive immediate notifications following every transaction. Providers must offer straightforward electronic options for modifying or cancelling services. Fair usage policies, contract terms and all service limitations must be communicated before agreements are signed.

The regulations set clear rules for consent: subscribers must be offered both one-time and automatic renewal options, with one-time as the default wherever possible. For online subscriptions using debit or credit cards, verification mechanisms such as one-time passwords (OTP) are mandatory. No service may be activated through a single click without explicit consent, which must be documented via a secure verification method. Confirmation messages must be sent in Arabic or the subscriber’s chosen language immediately after subscription.

The new rules apply to all offers, including permanent, promotional, individual or tender-based packages, and cap contractual commitments at 24 months with defined termination terms to prevent undue fees. Operators must also provide transparent information on international roaming costs and promotions involving contests or prizes. Notifications of roaming service activation, including applicable tariffs for calls, SMS and data, must be sent via SMS upon arrival or during transit, with the validity period starting only after the message is received.

TRA said the regulations form part of a broader strategy to improve service quality, promote digital justice and maintain a competitive telecommunications sector in line with Oman Vision 2040. Licensed operators are expected to comply fully. All violations will be closely monitored, with strict action taken to protect consumer rights.