On 19 August 2024, the Qatar Communications Authority (CRA) issued a decision to mobile service providers requiring operators to stop third-generation mobile services (IMT-2000) by 31 December 2025.

According to the decision of the Communications Authority, Ooredoo Qatar Q.P.S.C. and Vodafone Qatar P.Q.S.C. must discontinue the third-generation service by the specified date. The aim is to optimize the use of existing radio spectrum resources to support and enhance the performance of Generation 4 (4G/LTE4) and Generation 5 (5G) networks. Enables the two telecom service providers to direct their investments towards the development and expansion of 4G and 5G networks.

Click this link to view the original CRA decision.

On 21 May 2024, the Qatar Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) posted a public consultation on its website to solicit comments on the proposed Short Range Equipment (SRD) renewal category license.

The main changes proposed are as follows:

• The ISM category removes the 6765-6795 kHz band;
• More frequency bands for M2M applications;
• The definition of DECT applicability has been updated and different e.i.r.p. power limits have been given for different antennas
• updating and adding UWB technology and available frequency bands;
• changes in wireless applications for healthcare and hearing devices;
• Sense updates and changes to the app.

Click this link to view the original public consultation and the consultation is open for comments until 25 June 2024.