ICT
From The Report: Qatar 2016
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Twenty years ago, Qatar’s leadership set out to liberalize the country’s telecoms sector, transforming its state-run monopoly operator into a market-driven firm. This was part of an effort to transition the Qatari economy away from its traditional mainstays, oil and gas. To that end, the ICT sector has been instrumental to a broader process that continues today. As state and private players team up to roll out advanced infrastructure and increase ICT device penetration, they are driving growth in one of the country’s most dynamic non-energy sectors, improving communications, and building up infrastructure and expertise vital for the development of a knowledge economy.

This chapter contains interviews with Mohammed Ali Al Mannai, President, Communications Regulatory Authority; and Ian Gray, CEO, Vodafone Qatar.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Global networks: A new regulator and the competitive landscape are driving ICT investment and market growth
OBG
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Just 20 years ago, Qatar’s leadership set out to liberalise the country’s telecoms sector, transforming its state-run monopoly operator into a market-driven firm. This was part of an effort to transition the Qatari economy away from its traditional mainstays, oil and gas. To that end, the ICT sector has been instrumental to a broader process that continues today. As state and private players team up to roll out advanced infrastructure and increase ICT device penetration, they are driving growth…

Interview

Levelling the field: OBG talks to Mohammed Ali Al Mannai, President, Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA)
OBG
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Interview:Mohammed Ali Al Mannai In what ways can the CRA ensure transparency and independence in its operations, given that it is a state-created institution? MOHAMMED ALI AL MANNAI: The independent CRA was created by emiri decree with a full range of regulatory instruments and enforcement powers to facilitate competition and protect consumer rights. This structure is in line with its counterparts around the globe. Our approach to regulation is to promote consistency, certainty, transparency…

Analysis

Need for speed: Mobile operators compete to deliver faster speeds to a growing customer base
OBG
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Mobile network upgrades are fast under way in Qatar, where ICT is increasingly becoming a target sector for public authorities and private investors alike. Friendly competition revolving around network speeds and coverage has developed between the state’s two carriers Ooredoo, the former monopoly holder and largest company by revenue and customer market share, and Vodafone Qatar, the 2009 newcomer. With both carriers racing to achieve higher data speeds and greater coverage areas, consumers, and…

Interview

Future connections: OBG talks to Ian Gray, CEO, Vodafone Qatar
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Interview: Ian Gray How can the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) help create a level playing field? IAN GRAY: We remain optimistic that the CRA can improve the competitive balance in Qatar. As an independent body, the CRA is better able to take the sometimes difficult decisions needed to provide the platform for a more effective and sustainable operating environment while realising genuine benefits for all consumers and businesses alike. The market has seen the significant benefits that…