Qtel's robust internet strategy minimizes impact of global slowdown on Qatar

The three broken cables are estimated to carry 75% of traffic between the Middle East, Europe and America.

Internet users around the world are reporting significantly impacted services, with major outages reported in a number of Middle Eastern and African countries. In some cases, companies that rely on private networks that use the internet sub-cables have been forced to move operations onto public internet networks, creating additional global strain.

However, Qtel's engineers are reporting that loss of capacity in Qatar is being kept below 47%, because of Qatar's robust internet strategy. Qtel's network of alternative transmission routes and back-up cables has ensured that Qatar has remained connected and is only experiencing limited effects. Engineers are also working to source additional alternative routes to maintain speed and connectivity.

Creating crisis and back-up procedures for the internet has been a major strategic focus for Qtel over recent years. In addition, the company has helped create private networks for a number of key corporate clients, who have so far reported smooth operations, supported by Qtel enterprise services.

Work to repair the cable is currently underway, although this could take several days to complete. Users in Qatar might experience some slowdown in internet speed and access problems while these repairs are undertaken. However, Qtel is committed to restoring full access as soon as possible.