Qatar Telecom (Qtel) has announced the launch of a new LTE program to deliver 4G network in Qatar.  According to company, the project will deploy nearly 900 Base Stations across the country, delivering the best penetration for 4G coverage in the GCC region. 

"Qtel continues to invest in the Broadband Qatar strategy, which aims to provide one of the fastest, most reliable Broadband networks in the world to the people of Qatar. Following a comprehensive study of LTE technology, we are now positioned to build the largest 4G network in Qatar, offering the fastest speeds and most comprehensive coverage," said  Waleed Al Sayed, Chief Operating Officer, Qtel.

Qtel successfully completed a nationwide trial of LTE technology over the summer, and is in discussion with some of the world's leading companies in this area to support the technology roll-out.

During the roll-out, 4G coverage will be provided as an option in a growing number of areas in Qatar, starting with highly populated urban areas such as Doha and expanding across the country. 

 Referring results of the trial study, company said that offering speeds of 150 Mbps will be practically possible in Qatar using 20 MHz bandwidth. To provide this comprehensive national service, Qtel will require new frequency and is discussing this issue with ictQATAR.

Qtel has been allocated 800 MHz spectrum by ictQATAR to conduct the LTE trial.