Agreement defines framework for cooperation

Doha, Qatar (17 July 2011):   Qatar Nation Broadband Network Company (Q.NBN) has recently signed a Heads of Agreement (HoA) with Vodafone Qatar to support the government's plan to build a nationwide fiber broadband network. The Heads of Agreement is the first step to define a framework through which the two organizations can work together to realize Qatar Government's ultimate goal of bringing very high speed broadband services to 95% of households and 100% of government and businesses in Qatar by 2015.

The new fiber network, to be built by Q.NBN Company, will accelerate fiber penetration to homes and businesses in Qatar, thus enabling consumers to have access to the next generation of broadband services in Qatar such as IPTV and have more choice.

"Building a National Broadband Network in Qatar requires the close collaboration of all stakeholders. Vodafone's commitment to work with Q.NBN on this important national initiative is a sign of their shared commitment to advancing our society and ensuring the benefits of broadband reach everyone in Qatar. I look forward to working with Vodafone to reach the final agreement over the coming months and move forward to make Qatar a truly connected nation," said Mohamed Al-Mannai, Q.NBN Chief Executive Officer.

Under the agreement, Vodafone would be able to use Q.NBN telecom infrastructure to construct its planned fiber backbone network. Vodafone would also partner with Q.NBN on many aspects, including rolling out fiber in new developments, setting technical standards and customer migration.

"Vodafone is very pleased to partner with Q.NBN in order to bring 'super fast' fixed line broadband and calling to the homes and offices everywhere in Qatar.  Replacing copper telephone lines with fiber as the 'last mile' into the home will unleash the power of the world wide web, and having Q.NBN wholesaling this last mile to both Vodafone and Qtel will ensure affordability and choice for consumers", said John Tombleson, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Vodafone Qatar. 

Q.NBN is a fully independent company with the government mandate to accelerate the rollout of a nationwide, open, and accessible high-speed broadband Fiber to the Home (FTTH) network. The resulting high-speed broadband connectivity will enable the effective use of multimedia and communications applications that are central to developing Qatar's knowledge economy. Q.NBN will focus solely on the deployment of a passive network infrastructure, efficiently leveraging existing and new infrastructure in Qatar. Q.NBN operates within the existing laws and under license conditions issued by ictQATAR.

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ABOUT  Q.NBN
Qatar National Broadband Network Company (Q.NBN) is a fully independent company with the government mandate to accelerate the rollout of a nationwide, open, and accessible high-speed broadband Fiber to the Home (FTTH) network. Q.NBN will provide fiber access to citizens and businesses across Qatar, achieving coverage targets in excess of 95 percent by 2015. Q.NBN will focus solely on the deployment of a passive network infrastructure, efficiently leveraging existing and new infrastructure in Qatar. Q.NBN operates within the existing laws and under license conditions issued by ictQATAR.

www.qnbn.qa

About Vodafone Qatar
Vodafone Qatar QSC is the holder of the Second Public Mobile and Fixed Telecommunications Network and Services License in the State of Qatar. Vodafone Qatar's purpose is to Make a World of Difference to all people in Qatar by aiming to become the most admired brand in Qatar.

CONTACT
Communications  Manager
Fathy Kassem
T: +974 44528178
F: +974 44528181
M: + 974 55395730
email: fkassem@qnbn.qa

© Press Release 2011