Latest news with #AbdullahAl-Ajmi
Arab Times
11-03-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
CITRA signs deal with Ooredoo to install high-capacity submarine cable
KUWAIT CITY, March 11: The Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) signed a licensing agreement with Ooredoo Group on Monday to install the Fiber in the Gulf submarine cable, a project aimed at boosting Kuwait's position as a major hub for global data traffic. In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), the authority explained that this project is the largest of its kind in the region. It will offer a capacity of up to 720 terabits per second through 24 pairs of optical fibers, making it one of the most advanced cables in the world. The project will significantly enhance the region's digital infrastructure. CITRA anticipates that the cable will be ready for service by the fourth quarter of 2027. This initiative is expected to enhance network flexibility and improve the long-term reliability of communication systems in the region. The new submarine cable will connect Kuwait with Qatar, Oman, the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. This connectivity will improve the efficiency of digital networks and expand communication between the Gulf countries and the rest of the world. The project aligns with the region's digital transformation goals and strengthens its competitive position globally, particularly with the growing demand for high-speed internet, cloud services, and artificial intelligence. Abdullah Al-Ajmi, Acting Chairman of CITRA's Board of Directors, highlighted that this project marks a significant shift in Kuwait's communications landscape. He stressed that it is not just a submarine cable but a strategic move that positions Kuwait as a digital hub, offering higher internet speeds, stronger infrastructure, and greater business and technology opportunities. Al-Ajmi also noted that this project will enhance the national infrastructure and support economic growth and technological innovation. He reaffirmed CITRA's commitment to developing Kuwait's digital infrastructure and its role in driving the international digital economy through more strategic partnerships and initiatives for sustainable development. Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Thani, Regional CEO of Ooredoo Group in the Middle East, commented that the project supports the company's strategy to lead in digital infrastructure by expanding networks and improving connectivity both within the Gulf and globally. He emphasized that the submarine cable is not just about boosting internet speed but is also a long-term investment in the region's future communications. Sheikh Nasser added that the project will enhance digital infrastructure, foster innovation, and open new opportunities for investment in big data, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing. The cable will allow companies and service providers to transfer data efficiently, improving the performance of various economic sectors. Moreover, it will create new possibilities for technological cooperation and strategic partnerships with global telecommunications providers. He concluded by noting that the project will not only enhance digital communication within Kuwait but also position it as a key player in shaping the future of technology and communications in the region.
Arab Times
28-01-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
CITRA marks 2024 as year of exceptional success, plans for continued digital growth
KUWAIT CITY, Jan 28: The Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) announced on Monday that 2024 was a year of exceptional success for the organization. CITRA emphasized its commitment to continuing its role in developing digital infrastructure and strengthening its leadership in supporting the digital economy. The announcement was made during a press conference held by the Acting Chairman of the CITRA Board of Directors, Eng. Abdullah Al-Ajmi, where he reviewed the authority's achievements in 2024 and outlined its vision for 2025. Al-Ajmi reported that CITRA achieved record revenues exceeding KWD 75 million (approximately USD 243.4 million) during the first half of the fiscal year (2024-2025). This success was driven by improved operational performance and increased revenue collection in key areas such as landing station licenses, telecom companies' number range licenses, and income from leased international connection circuits. He also highlighted a major achievement: to address challenges related to the maintenance of marine communications cables and ensure continuous service, CITRA recently launched a new regional corridor linking Kuwait to Frankfurt. This corridor serves as an integrated alternative to traditional marine routes, offering low latency and making it a reliable option for international service providers. The new route allows data traffic to be safely and efficiently directed from Kuwait to Europe via Iraq. As part of CITRA's efforts to implement cutting-edge technologies in communication networks, the authority launched the first phase of the direct extension registration service (kw.) in 2024. It also introduced new frequencies in preparation for the launch of the advanced fifth-generation technology (5GA), which represents the highest level in the communications networks sector. In a bid to strengthen the information technology sector, CITRA signed a land lease contract with Google to establish modern data centers for cloud computing services in Kuwait. Al-Ajmi emphasized the importance of this project, noting that it would enhance digital infrastructure and support digital transformation efforts in both the public and private sectors. The project is expected to bolster Kuwait's position as a reliable regional hub for data and cloud computing services. CITRA also concluded a memorandum of understanding with Huawei last year to further develop the information and communications technology sector. Additionally, the authority signed a contract with Kuwait Telecommunications Company (STC) to lease a 5,698.5-square-meter plot for the establishment of an administrative headquarters and a multi-story parking building in the Capital Governorate. This move is seen as a strategic step to strengthen public-private sector cooperation, support the communications and information technology sector in Kuwait, and encourage investments that will enhance infrastructure and stimulate the national economy. In line with its commitment to better regulate the communications and information technology sector, CITRA introduced a new organizational structure in 2024. This update included the creation of new departments and sections aimed at improving the authority's efficiency in managing the sector. The authority also launched the "Kashif" service, which displays the name and number of the caller to recipients of incoming calls, helping to reduce calls from unknown sources. Al-Ajmi concluded his remarks by emphasizing the authority's continued efforts in 2025 to contribute to the development of the communications and information technology sector. He stressed the importance of enhancing digital transformation, supporting economic growth, and fostering partnerships with the private sector while adopting best global practices.
