Oman has completed the nationwide shutdown of 3G services.

In a statement this week, the country's Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) confirmed that the 3G frequency bands have been redirected to support 4G, 5G, and IoT networks.

Providing a detailed timeline of the 3G phase out, the TRA noted that it started its transition away from 3G during the third quarter of last year, beginning in less densely populated areas.

The TRA confirmed that some 3G stations are still in use around Muscat International Airport, stating these sites are temporarily exempt from the shutdown for technical reasons.

"The complete shutdown of 3G networks aims to improve telecommunications services, reuse frequencies for more advanced technologies, and enhance energy efficiency," said the TRA.

Omani telecom operators first launched 3G back in 2005.

However, 3G is now an outdated technology, with 4G and 5G able to provide faster speeds, support more advanced applications, and boost energy efficiency.

Oman's regulator said its 4G network covers 99 percent of the country's population, while its 5G network covers 90 percent.

The regulator claims that since moving away from the legacy 3G network, it has been able to achieve annual energy savings exceeding two million kilowatt-hours.

Telcos around the world are moving away from their 3G mobile networks in favor of 4G and 5G, which offer faster speeds, capacity, and are more energy efficient.

Last week, reports emerged in the Philippines that the government is preparing to retire 2G and 3G networks in the country.