People of Qatar connect during Ramadan

Qtel has helped enable this communication with a special campaign that reduced the cost of video and voice calls by 50% during the evening.

The campaign was deliberately designed to ensure that people from all backgrounds could communicate with their friends and family during the Holy Month, and share best wishes with them.

The timing of the reduced tariff period - 9pm and 6am every day - was set following a consultation period with customers across Qatar, the majority of whom indicated that the evening was the most likely time when they would elect to make calls.

In 2008, video calling has proven particularly popular compared to Ramadan 2007. Executives at Qtel believe that the "emotional" nature of video calling is increasing its popularity during festivals and holiday seasons.

Qtel's special call reduction was also supported by a significant awareness campaign, which took the message of communication and dialogue across a range of media, including a major television campaign. Qtel's television advertisement, which emphasized the importance of sharing during the Holy Month, has received positive reviews from a range of specialist marketing media.

Adel Al Mutawa, Executive Director of Group Communications, Qtel, said:

"Every business unit and every part of the company has looked to make a contribution to the community during Ramadan, both through the provision of special services and direct local engagement. The call promotion in particular has been warmly received by the public."

Qtel maximized its social contribution throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan, organizing and participating in a wide range of charity and community activities.