Telecom service providers ease SIM allocation process for FIFA WC fans
The updated process enables fans to apply for a SIM card online through the digital channels of the telecom Service Providers, Ooredoo Qatar and Vodafone Qatar, and verify their identity digitally by using the ‘Hayya’ card as an identification document of the applicant
THE telecom Service Providers, Ooredoo Qatar QPSC and Vodafone Qatar PQSC, have cooperated with the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) to amend the registration process for getting a prepaid mobile SIM card, with the aim of facilitating telecom services for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 fans while maintaining regulatory requirements.
The updated process enables fans to apply for a SIM card online through the digital channels of the telecom Service Providers, Ooredoo Qatar and Vodafone Qatar, and verify their identity digitally by using the ‘Hayya’ card as an identification document of the applicant. That enables applicants, based on their preference, to instantly get an embedded-SIM (eSIM) card without the need to visit the retail outlets of the telecom Service Providers or get a physical SIM card from their retail outlets in Qatar.
According to the process, each fan can obtain two cards. Also, minor fans under the age of 18 can obtain two cards with the consent of their parents. Fans can activate e-SIM and physical SIM cards when arriving in Qatar. Service Providers will disconnect the cards automatically once the fans’ ‘Hayya’ cards expire. Fans can also request to terminate the service before that based on their desire.
“CRA is keen to effectively regulate the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector in a way that contributes to its development and benefits all stakeholders, whether Service Providers or telecom consumers, especially concerning the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. CRA has been keen to ensure that the telecom Service Providers provide highquality services that effectively meet the needs of consumers,” said Amel Salem Al-Hanawi, director of Consumer Affairs Department, CRA.
“I want to thank the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy for their coordination efforts and to thank Ooredoo Qatar and Vodafone Qatar for their cooperation and keenness to provide innovative telecom services that contribute to the success of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, improving the experience of telecom consumers in the State of Qatar, and reducing carbon footprints,” she added.
Qatar expects 1.2 million visitors for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, so to meet the expected needs, CRA has assigned around 3 million mobile numbers and about 40,000 fixed-line numbers to telecom Service Providers to be used by visitors and organizers of the tournament.