Mobile Number Portability Services Rollout in Qatar

Effective January 31, 2013, Consumers Can Retain Their Mobile Number when Switching Service Providers

Qatar, Doha: The Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology (ictQATAR) announced that Mobile Number Portability (MNP) is now available in Qatar in a phased rollout. Full Service availability by Service Providers in their entire retail networks will be in the coming weeks. Mobile Number Portability allows consumers to keep their existing mobile number when switching to a different service provider.

"Mobile Number Portability is an important part of the ongoing liberalization of Qatar's telecommunications sector. It allows consumers to choose more freely the service provider that best meets their needs without having to sacrifice their existing number. The growing competition in our telecommunications market is leading to lower prices, innovative new services and enhanced customer care. MNP will further empower consumers and we are pleased that both service providers have worked with us to make this possible," said Saleh Al-Kuwari, Deputy Assistant Secretary General, Regulatory Authority.

Consumers wishing to change service providers and keep their existing mobile number should visit the retail outlets of the service provider they are planning to switch to. At the retail outlet, consumers will fill out a Mobile Number Portability application, and the process of porting typically takes one working day once the application has been completed.

The National Numbering Committee, established by ictQATAR and with active participation from Qtel and Vodafone Qatar has led the implementation. "Both Qtel and Vodafone Qatar have committed to providing point-of-sale service to assist consumers with the process and to answer any questions they may have. We encourage all consumers considering switching their mobile service to another provider to carefully review all the applicable terms and conditions," said Mohammed El-Bashir, ictQATAR Technical Affairs Manager, Regulatory Authority.

For more information about the number porting process, and to check in which retail outlets Mobile Number Portability requests can be processed, consumers should visit www.qtel.qa and www.vodafone.qa - the website of the operator that they wish to switch to. Additional information, including the frequently asked questions can be found on www.ictQATAR.qa/numberportability.

ABOUT  ictQATAR
The Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology (ictQATAR) connects people to the technologies that enrich their lives, drive economic development and inspire confidence in the future. ictQATAR is entrusted with two primary authorities: as the country's independent and fair regulator of the telecommunications market, and as the government body that nurtures innovative technologies to benefit those who live and work in Qatar.

www.ictQATAR.qa

CONTACT
Communications Executive Director
Kholoud Al-Ali
T: +974 44995438
F: +974 44995352
email: kalali@ict.gov.qa

Outreach & Public Awareness Manager
Zakaria Fawzy
T: +974 44995518
F: +974 44995352
M: + 974 66871419
email: zfawzi@ict.gov.qa

© Press Release 2013