The partnership will evaluate a secure platform that uses automation and blockchain to simplify roaming operations while ensuring transparent and tamper-resistant commercial records between operators.

Zain Omantel International (ZOI) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Tata Communications to explore the development of a next-generation inter-operator roaming platform that leverages blockchain and intelligent automation to modernise international roaming services.

The collaboration will examine how blockchain technology can be applied across the roaming lifecycle, including partner management, commercial agreements, reconciliation, settlement and dispute resolution. The initiative aims to simplify operations while improving transparency, efficiency and trust between mobile network operators.

ZOI currently supports international roaming across nearly 700 mobile networks in more than 200 countries and carries over 10bn international voice minutes annually. Tata Communications, meanwhile, works with more than 600 mobile network operators, connecting four out of every five mobile subscribers worldwide through its global communications network.

As part of the partnership, the two companies will evaluate a secure platform that combines data-driven capabilities, machine-led automation and blockchain technology to streamline roaming processes. The proposed platform is designed to automate key operational tasks while using blockchain to provide a transparent and tamper-resistant record of commercial transactions between operators.

Sohail Qadir, Chief Executive Officer of Zain Omantel International, said international roaming services, including voice, messaging and data, remain essential for individuals and businesses operating across borders. He said the collaboration with Tata Communications is focused on creating smarter infrastructure and simpler operating models that enhance the roaming lifecycle and improve the overall customer experience through intelligent automation and blockchain technologies.

The agreement aligns with ZOI’s broader strategy of simplifying international telecommunications through strategic partnerships, advanced digital infrastructure and customer-focused innovation.

For Tata Communications, the initiative further strengthens its efforts to help service providers modernise global mobility services and improve operational efficiency. Vivek Manglik, Executive Vice President – Interaction Fabric at Tata Communications, said mobile operators are increasingly looking to accelerate settlement cycles, improve efficiency and deliver better roaming experiences for customers.

He added that the telecommunications industry has an opportunity to rethink how roaming relationships are managed by adopting technologies such as intelligent automation and blockchain to reduce operational complexity and increase transparency. According to Manglik, the collaboration with ZOI will explore a platform capable of streamlining operations, strengthening collaboration between operators and unlocking greater value from global roaming ecosystems.