The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has made a significant move in Qatar’s telecommunications landscape by mandating the discontinuation of third-generation (3G) mobile services by December 31, 2025. This decision follows comprehensive consultations with stakeholders and aims to enhance the efficiency and quality of telecom services in the country.
Impact on Telecom Providers
Ooredoo Qatar Q.P.S.C. and Vodafone Qatar P.Q.S.C. are the two main telecom providers affected by this mandate. Both companies are required to phase out their 3G services by the end of 2025. This step is designed to free up radio spectrum resources, allowing for the expansion and improvement of Fourth Generation (4G) and Fifth Generation (5G) networks.
Goals & Benefits
- Enhanced Network Performance: The cessation of 3G services will optimize the use of spectrum for 4G and 5G networks, which offer better performance and capacity.
- Investment Shift: By retiring outdated technologies, telecom providers can redirect their investments towards advancing 4G and 5G networks.
- Economic Growth: This initiative supports Qatar National Vision 2030 by fostering growth in the telecom sector, contributing to economic diversification and improved service quality.
Device Import Regulations
Effective immediately, the CRA has banned the import of mobile phones that support only 2G and 3G technologies. The new regulations allow for the importation of devices that are compatible with 4G and Voice over LTE (VoLTE), provided they meet the necessary standards and have received type approval from CRA.
These regulatory changes are set to significantly enhance consumer experience by improving data speeds, reducing latency, and increasing network capacity. The CRA’s efforts align with the Third National Development Strategy 2024-2030, which focuses on elevating residents’ quality of life and delivering services that align with global standards.
Click here to read the official announcement.
Quick Country Facts
Qatar
Certification Body:Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Available with Access Manager
In-Country Testing Requirement: Available with Access Manager
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