Executives are confident that the major investment - developed at an estimated cost of QR 20 million - will provide a vital strategic resource for the masterplan to enhance Al Wakrah city through the creation of new retail areas, refurbishment of tourism sites and extension of the current port and fishing facilities.
Al Wakrah is one of the areas being targeted for a number of long-term development projects by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal).
The Qtel Service Centre will provide full support for the advanced telecommunication services required by this development process, and will provide opportunities for job development and training for the local community.
Opening the facility, H.E. Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Saud Al-Thani, Chairman of Qtel, said:
"We are proud to open this Service Centre in Al Wakrah, both as a resource for the local community and a sign of our confidence in the ongoing growth and potential of this area. This will be the first facility in the region to combine Qtel's excellence in customer service with our expertise in business solutions, and we anticipate a very positive response from companies and residents."
"Qtel fully understands the importance of our responsibilities to the people of Qatar for ensuring they have convenient access to a full range of communication services and also the request that we invest in development that will provide both jobs and business opportunities in the local economy. We continue to extend our presence across the Nation, to ensure that everybody benefits from Qtel's evolution into one of the global leaders in telecommunications," he continued.
"By opening this Service Centre - which is the most modern and customer-friendly in the Qtel network - in Al Wakrah, we are making a firm commitment to our customers that they can expect our world-class quality of service wherever they are in Qatar."
Al Wakrah's Qtel Service Centre covers a total area of more than 1,000 sq. metres, and has been designed to offer a striking visual statement to visitors. It deploys a broad range of colours and branding to create a unique atmosphere.
Dedicated areas cover specific services for Qatar residents, including special areas for high-speed internet access, Mozaic TV+ services and a wide range of mobile communications offerings.
It even hosts a gallery, displaying some of the latest mobile devices available in the region, which will be used to preview many of the newest models coming to the market in 2009.
The Service Centre also has a fully-staffed Customer Helpdesk, where residents can submit inquiries and applications, as well as purchase SIM cards and top-ups for HALA Pay As You Talk and Shahry Postpaid mobile.
As an entirely new innovation, the Service Centre also hosts an internal branch of the famous "Fauchon Cafe" for the relaxation and convenience of visitors. The Cafe will serve a variety of hot and cold food around the clock for Qtel customers, providing an additional element of hospitality.
All these services are supported by a large and conveniently-located parking area, as well as a range of services for families and mothers with children visiting the store.
Waleed Al Sayeed, Executive Director, Customer Services, Qtel, said: "We have conducted a far-reaching review of the services required by the people of Al Wakrah and built all the feedback into the design and development of this facility. It will offer convenience, flexibility and the latest range of products and services, all delivered in a relaxing and stylish atmosphere. This will be an important facility for the people of Al Wakrah, which will work in partnership with the community as the area continues to grow and develop."
Over 100 new team members - many from the local area - have been recruited to help support the new Service Centre, including a team of dedicated customer service professionals to help manage inquiries and requests for information.
In addition, the Service Centre will house a specialist team of Business Solutions and technical support experts, which will work in partnership with companies and government agencies in Al Wakrah and other neighbouring municipalities such as Mesaieed.
Qtel has developed a range of specialist services for business, including a range of hosting services and support for Qatar's first and most reliable range of Blackberry solutions.
The team are already working on a number of special projects with the local authorities to provide wireless internet access at Souks and tourist sites throughout the Municipality, in addition to a special education project.
H.E. Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Saud Al-Thani concluded: "This new Service Centre will be the launch-pad for a host of important new initiatives in Al Wakrah and the surrounding area. Part of our strategic vision is that everyone in Qatar should be benefit from the latest in communication technology, and - with the new Service Centre opening - Qtel is delivering on that vision."

Posted by Nadeen El Ajou



