Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 36 | Page 12

NEWS Vodafone Qatar deploys tetra and mobile network in Msheireb downtown Doha V odafone Qatar has completed the deployment of its world- class TETRA and mobile coverage infrastructure in the three constructed phases of Msheireb Downtown Doha, at an investment value in excess of QAR 100 million. Qatar’s most important and iconic projects. We are committed to ensuring that all this ambitious project’s telecommunications needs are delivered to the very highest standards to enable thousands of residents, businesses and visitors to benefit from Vodafone Qatar’s world class network.” In 2014 and 2016 respectively, Msheireb Properties and Vodafone Qatar entered into an agreement that would see Vodafone Qatar become the provider of mobile services infrastructure and the sole provider of TETRA services for Msheireb Downtown Doha, the world’s first smart and sustainable downtown regeneration project. Since then, Vodafone Qatar has been leading the massive deployment of telecommunications infrastructure in the pioneering new smart city. This included fitting all the buildings with the latest indoor coverage technologies that required the installation of more than 5,000 antennas. These can also be shared with other service providers for the most efficient use of assets. Vodafone Qatar also ensured all its outdoor mobile sites were concealed to preserve the surroundings. Vodafone Qatar’s CEO, Sheikh Hamad Abdulla Jassim Al Thani, said: “We’re proud to be leading the provision of vital telecommunications infrastructure and services in Msheireb Downtown Doha, one of ////////////////// QF RDI participates in Global Technology Forum D elegates from Qatar Foundation Research, Development and Innovation (QF RDI) joined globally-renowned scholars, technologists and business leaders to explore how advances in science and technology are shaping the future during the Science Technology in Society (STS) Forum Annual Meeting. when pursuing growth and development in research, technology and innovation. The forum, which took place in Kyoto, was held under the patronage of the Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe. Dr. Nabeel Al-Salem, Chief Advisor Partnerships, QF RDI, said: “We at QF RDI are delighted to be part of this forum and its annual meeting, having served as a corporate member and lead sponsor since 2013. “The STS Forum provides an impactful global platform for us to not only collaborate with our Japanese counterparts, but to also forge connections with a broad range of potential international partners working in areas of interest to Qatar. “Learnings from the various themed sessions will find resonance among our societies as it is carried through the human network we establish and reaffirm here.” Dr. Al-Salem delivered a plenary talk titled Research and Innovation – A Qatar Foundation Perspective where he highlighted the unique challenges facing nations such as Qatar, especially 12 INTELLIGENTCIO www.intelligentcio.com