Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 34 | Page 52

COUNTRY FOCUS: QATAR Ooredoo was the first company in the world to launch a commercial 5G network earlier this year. It continues to invest heavily in this next generation technology to ensure that Qatar is at the forefront of 5G developments now that the countdown to the 2022 World Cup is underway. ///////////////// At the forefront of the future I n May Ooredoo, Qatar’s leading communications company that delivers mobile, fixed, broadband and corporate managed services, announced that the first commercial 5G network in the world had now reached 50 sites in the country. Since this landmark moment, the company has invested heavily in rolling-out the next- generation technology to ensure the country is at the forefront of 5G developments and the 5G ecosystem. Thanks to this significant milestone some of Qatar’s most populated areas in Doha are now 5G enabled, meaning a huge number 52 INTELLIGENTCIO of Ooredoo customers and businesses will be able to instantly access the 5G network as devices become available. As well as investing in the 5G roll-out, Ooredoo is thoroughly testing a batch of the first-ever live 5G home broadband devices. Waleed Al Sayed, Chief Executive Officer, Ooredoo Qatar, said: “As the countdown to 2022 has begun, we need to ensure that Qatar is ready ahead of time, in all sectors. As a proud Qatari company, we are preparing our network now so that it can seamlessly serve our country and people, and the thousands of expected visitors. “5G will enable our customers to download movies in seconds, stream VR gaming experiences like never before and open up a world of smart technology. “We’re working tirelessly to reach the 100 5G sites milestone, and we’re pushing the 5G Home Broadband device to its limit, to make sure it’s 5G ready and Qatar worthy.” Ooredoo’s 5G network roll-out will have a hugely positive impact on many business sectors and organisations in Qatar. Most noticeably, 5G serves as the next step in network evolution, as it has much