Omantel and UK-based Archangel Lightworks have entered into a strategic partnership to support the development of laser and optical communication services in Oman. The agreement was announced on 16 December 2025 in Muscat.
Under the agreement, the two organisations will work together to introduce optical satellite ground station technology into Omantel’s network. The goal is to support higher-capacity data services and help establish Oman as a key location for advanced satellite communications in the region.
The partnership was developed through the Smart Industry Initiative, a joint effort involving the British Omani Society, BSG International and Oxford Science Enterprises. The initiative promotes collaboration between British and Omani organisations. Oxford Science Enterprises, which invests in Archangel Lightworks, played a role in supporting the agreement.
The partners plan to begin a staged programme of technical trials from 2026. These trials will test the TERRA-M optical ground station by receiving data from test satellites. The programme will also examine new Ground Station as a Service opportunities and trial combined radio frequency and optical satellite data links. These steps are intended to support future shared service models across Omantel’s network.
The agreement also covers joint research and development activity. This work will focus on future optical systems with higher throughput and on point-to-point optical links for terrestrial use.
Yousuf Nasser Mattar Al Azizi, GM Technology Strategy and Innovation at Omantel, said: “This exploration represents a bold stride in the sector of space technology towards redefining the architecture of global communications with Oman at its center. By integrating Archangel Lightworks’ frontier optical technologies with Omantel’s infrastructure, we are forging a seamless bridge between space-based networks and terrestrial systems. This collaboration not only amplifies Oman’s role as a nexus for high-capacity digital connectivity, but also reflects our commitment to shaping the future of secure, scalable, and sustainable communications. It is a testament to our vision, our partnerships, and our unwavering pursuit of innovation in line with Oman Vision 2040.”
Archangel Lightworks’ CEO Richard Johanson said: “This collaboration with Omantel is an exciting step towards a vision of hybrid space and terrestrial networks which can deliver the flexible connectivity humanity needs, at scale. Through our joint program in Oman, we look forward to integrating our TERRA-M optical ground station and broader technology suite with Omantel’s existing infrastructure to show how wireless laser communications can be deployed in partnership with terrestrial networks to add resilience and capacity, fueling innovation and growth.”
Jim Wilkinson, Chief Financial Officer for Oxford Science Enterprises, said: “This agreement between Omantel and Archangel Lightworks is a milestone for the future of global communications. As part of the Smart Industry Initiative, we are delighted to see UK-founded innovation being applied in Oman, helping to build stronger links between our two countries and advancing the frontiers of connectivity.”
