Mobile broadband rates cut by 90%

The pioneering high speed mobile internet service - which provides some of the fastest high speed internet times in the region - has proven extremely popular since its launch in the summer of 2008.

Qtel has invested significantly in building one of the most advanced 3G and 3.5G networks in the region, and is working hard to ensure that as many people as possible reap the benefits.

Through the Mobile Broadband service and special data-only SIM cards, users can access the internet via a USB modem or any data device in areas across Qatar at similar speeds to those enjoyed by customers on an ADSL broadband connection in the home.

Under the new program, all out-of-bundle charges for mobile broadband services will be reduced by 90%, setting prices at 0.1 Qatari Riyals for every additional Megabyte (MB) downloaded over the data allowance. Qtel will continue to offer Lite, Plus and Max packages, offering different levels of data allowance, but users will now pay significantly less if they exceed their allotted download level.

The charge details will be included in customers' monthly bills for in-and-out of bundle fees.

Executives at Qtel believe that the new pricing structure will significantly enhance the overall customer experience.

"We are constantly reviewing customers' response to the new Mobile Broadband, as part of the steps we are taking towards our 'Broadband Qatar' strategy, which aims to make affordable high speed internet connectivity available to all," said Adel Al Mutawa, Executive Director of Group Communications, Qtel.

"By reducing the out-of-bundle charges so significantly, Qtel will remove customers' concerns about surfing beyond their data allowance, and so emancipate them to fully engage with the internet," he added.

With greater flexibility and coverage than fixed-line services, Mobile Broadband is ideal for customers accessing the Internet on the move, allowing them to connect to high-speed Internet services from their personal laptops at any time.

The Mobile Broadband is also available for customers roaming outside Qatar.

However, it is worth being aware that the roaming charges are typically set by the operator in the host country, so that they are not reflected in the monthly data allowance and can add significantly to the overall cost. Roaming charges are available on the Qtel Web site.

The new prices are in-line with Qtel's belief that affordable, high speed internet connectivity should be available to all, recognizing the power of the web to connect people to both their community and the world at large.

Mobile Internet penetration is a key part of Qatar's economic development strategy, building the country's competitiveness and laying the foundation for the advancement of its knowledge economy.