The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) in the State of Qatar has announced that third-generation mobile telecommunications services (IMT-2000) will cease by December 31, 2025. This decision follows consultations with stakeholders and aligns with CRA’s strategic plans to enhance the quality and efficiency of telecommunications services.

Both Ooredoo Qatar Q.P.S.C. and Vodafone Qatar P.Q.S.C. are obligated to discontinue third-generation services by the specified deadline.

The move aims to optimize radio spectrum resources for Fourth Generation (4G/LTE4) and Fifth Generation (5G) networks, promoting technological advancement in Qatar’s telecommunications sector.

CRA Qatar have, further, banned the import of phones that support only second and third-generation technologies.

However, they are approving devices compatible with 4G/Voice over LTE (VoLTE) technology, provided they meet the required standards and have obtained type approval certificates from CRA.

Official CRA Announcement can be seen at the link below:

https://www.cra.gov.qa/en/press-releases/cra-announces-cessation-of-3g-mobile-telecommunications-services-by-december-2025