Doha: The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has issued an updated Regulation for the Construction, Installation, and Sharing of Radio Communications Sites aimed at improving safety and enabling future-ready infrastructure sharing.

This regulatory update follows extensive public consultation and multi-stakeholder engagement. The new framework aligns international best practices with Qatar's local needs, enhancing transparency in site approvals.

The updated regulation provides a unified framework governing the planning and design of mobile network sites across Qatar. It encourages collaboration between licensed telecom Service Providers and government entities to promote efficient site development through streamlined approvals and consistent technical standards.

CRA has consolidated three prior regulatory instruments into a single, comprehensive guideline. This new regulation replaces previous rules covering the construction and installation of radio stations, cellular base stations and towers standards, and mobile site sharing instructions. With this integration, the regulation supports infrastructure sharing, reduces redundancy, and aligns with global best practices, advancing Qatar's telecommunications while protecting public health and the environment.

The regulation sets mandatory technical and safety standards for constructing mobile network sites, such as ground-based towers, rooftop and wall-mounted units, and temporary installations. It specifies safety distances, structural load capacities, and electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure limits referencing international benchmarks.

Whenever possible, the Regulation requires service providers to co-locate and share infrastructure, maximizing resource efficiency.

Early coordination between service providers, municipal authorities, and developers is encouraged to facilitate site selection and speed approvals. CRA will oversee the implementation through periodic audits, preparation of technical reports, and the enforcement of necessary measures.

Technical Affairs Department Director at CRA, Ali Al-Suwaidi, stated,“This Regulation is a key step in enhancing telecommunications quality and consumer experience, supporting expanded coverage and faster deployment of 5G and other emerging technologies. By simplifying procedures and reducing deployment costs, it helps service providers operate more efficiently.

Additionally, it reinforces government efforts to raise safety standards and environmental planning, aligning with CRA's strategy to promote a sustainable, efficient telecom sector that directly contributes to achieving the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.”

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