RIYADH, 29 April 2007 -- Etihad Etisalat (Mobily) has made switching from other networks to its 3.5G network through Raqami (my number) easier, a company statement said yesterday.

Mobile number portability allows cell phone users in the Kingdom to retain their whole number, the three-digit area code and seven-digit mobile number when switching from one network to another.

Unlike when the service was first launched last year, customers wishing to switch over no longer need to visit their current operator to process the paperwork needed to change to Mobily's network.

Prepaid and postpaid customers wishing to switch can visit any Mobily showroom, fill out the forms and even request their bill from the other operator's network. Subscribers then have two days to pay their bill once it is requested from the other operator's network.

Customers subscribed to mobile services with other networks no longer need to visit the offices of the other operator for any mobile number portability issues. "We are a pioneer when it comes to introducing innovative products and services," said Ahmed Alhosani, deputy chief marketing officer.

© Arab News 2007