Page 130 - SAMENA Trends - June-July 2025

REGULATORY & POLICY UPDATES SAMENA TRENDS

Ofcom Cuts UK Mobile License Fees for 900MHz and 1800MHz

The UK telecoms regulator has reduced the networks. The cost of such fees can, December 2024 this resulted in a proposal
total amount paid by the primary mobile however, be influenced by various different to reduce the ALFs for the 900MHz and
network operators – EE, O2 and Vodafone factors, such as the ongoing removal of 3G 1800MHz bands by 21%, while fees for the
/ Three UK – to use the 900MHz, 1800MHz services and the desire to make modern 5G 2100MHz band would increase by 12%. The
and 2100MHz radio spectrum bands by services available via the same bands etc. mobile operators were clearly unhappy with
around £60m per year. The bands support Not to mention any changes in the supply Ofcom’s approach, and several complained
the use of 2G and 4G mobile (mobile and demand conditions since the fees of errors in their calculations, as evidenced
broadband) services. The cost of Annual were set. In case anybody has forgotten, through feedback published in April 2025.
License Fees (ALF) remains a highly Ofcom, which was prompted by evidence But the good news is that the regulator’s
divisive subject for the mobile operators, submitted via BT, has been investigating a final decision has updated the calculation
which often complain that hikes in this “material misalignment between our fees and indicated that operators will now save
area can mean price rises for consumers and the underlying market value of the an estimated combined total of £60m a
and less investment going toward their relevant spectrum” since early 2024. Back in year (up from the prior proposal of £40m).

CRA, Qatar Launches National Initiative to Celebrate 160 Years of the

International Telecommunication Union

In celebration of the 160th anniversary of
the International Telecommunication Union
(ITU), the Communications Regulatory
Authority (CRA) has launched a national
initiative featuring a variety of community-
focused programs. The program kicked
off on World Telecommunication and
Information Society Day and reflects
Qatar’s longstanding collaboration with the
ITU and its commitment to inclusive digital
advancement in line with the CRA Strategy
and the Qatar National Vision 2030. The
national initiative, running under the unifying
slogan “Everyone Connected, Everyone
Engaged”, affirms Qatar’s commitment
to supporting global efforts in digital
transformation. It focuses on achieving
tangible benefits within the country by opportunities into tangible achievements technology safely and confidently, ensuring
promoting the use of telecommunications for all members of society. ” The initiative that all generations benefit from Qatar’s
and information technology, contributing features a diverse sequence of programs digital transformation ” The initiative also
to the ITU’s vision of connecting the world developed in collaboration with local includes a range of diverse programs
through modern and sustainable digital organizations and international partners. developed in collaboration with several
means. Commenting on program, Engineer It begins an awareness workshop aimed local organizations, aimed at engaging all
Ahmad Abdulla Al-Muslemani, President at enhancing digital safety for the elderly, segments of society, empowering people
of CRA and Chair-Designate of the ITU in cooperation with Ehsan – Center for with disabilities, supporting the elderly,
Plenipotentiary Conference 2026, said: “As Empowerment and Care of the Elderly, to and inspiring youth pursuing careers in
we join the global community in marking provide them with the knowledge and skills ICT. These efforts reflect Qatar’s steadfast
the ITU’s 160th anniversary, Qatar reaffirms necessary to safely and independently dedication to achieving digital inclusion
its dedication to a digitally empowered engage with the digital world. Manal Ahmed and enhancing its active presence both
and inclusive future. This program is a AlMannai, CEO of Ehsan, emphasized the regionally and internationally in the journey
testament to our enduring relationship value of digital inclusion, stating: “Our toward a knowledge-based digital economy
with the Union and our shared mission to partnership with the Communications that ensures equal opportunities for access
effectively regulate telecommunications Regulatory Authority enables us to extend and progress for all.
and information technology, improve our long-standing mission into the digital
quality of life and transform digital world, and empower the elderly to use

130 JUNE-JULY 2025