CRA launches a public consultation about 5G private mobile networks

Private telecommunications networks enable businesses and entities in private and government sectors to ensure reliable, flexible, and secure voice and data communications on-site and between sites. Three regulatory options were presented for consultation. Under the first option (which is the one available under the current regulatory framework), enterprises wishing to implement a 5G private mobile network can procure services provided by the two telecom service providers (Ooredoo Qatar and Vodafone Qatar).The second option is making radio spectrum available to enterprises wishing to implement a 5G private mobile network, so they can self-provide it if they have the required radio spectrum licence. The third option is granting the required licences to a new service provider with a scope restricted to the provision of 5G private mobile networks to enterprises. Depending on the outcome of this consultation, it may be that more than one option will be supported in Qatar, as the adoption of one option would not automatically exclude the others.In its endeavour toward ensuring the transparency of the regulatory process and developing the necessary regulatory instruments to effectively regulates the telecom sector, CRA is keen to receive the views of the stakeholders, including enterprises wishing to implement a 5G private mobile network and suppliers of 5G services and related technologies. CRA will consider received views and comments when finalising its position on this subject.Stakeholders and interested parties can submit their related views and comments by emailing raconsultation@cra.gov.qa, by not later than July 21. The public consultation document can be accessed via the below link.https://www.cra.gov.qa/en/document/consultation-document-5g-private-mobile-networks