2.6 GHz frequency allocation plan gets approval

Manama : Bahrain’s Spectrum Strategy Coordination Committee yesterday adopted a 2.6 GHz frequency band allocation plan in a bid to enable smooth use of the fourth and fifth generation mobile services technologies (LTE).

The committee chaired by Mohamed Ali AlQaed Chief Executive of Information and eGovernment Authority also agreed to add new frequency bands for fixed services which support the private and commercial communications network infrastructure. 

This was revealed while approving the National Plan for Frequencies prepared based on the outputs of the World Radio Conference 2015.  The  meeting was attended by committee members representing 10 governmental entities.

The move was in line with a decree issued in May 2016 by Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa for adopting the recommendations of the Fourth National Telecommunications Plan. 

This plan focuses on the international regulations, optimal use of the spectrum and the requirements of various sectors, including entities specialized in national security.

The plan envisages developing the Directorate of Wireless Licensing, Frequency & Monitoring, utilizing the frequencies effectively to meet current and future needs of all users, attracting investments to the Kingdom, developing  the ICT sector as well as meeting the international requirements.

While agreeing to adopt the technical part of the fixed links prepared by the Directorate of Wireless Licensing, Frequency & Monitoring, the committee said the move would contribute in launching  the latest global communication systems in Bahrain.

In this regard, AlQaed also highlighted the need of developing the telecommunications sector, increasing Bahrain’s ranking in ICT international indicators, as well as enhancing the utilization of the advanced technology, which will reflect positively on investments in line with Bahrain’s vision 2030.

The committee comprises 10 governmental entities, representing the Information & eGovernment Authority, Ministry of Interior, National Security Agency, Bahrain Defence Force, Ministry of Transportation & Telecommunications, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, Ministry of Information Affairs, and the National Guard.