Consultation on RITE Type Approval Policy

The Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology, ictQATAR, is conducting a public consultation on its proposed Type Approval Policy for Radio Equipment and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (RTTE). The aim of the proposed policy is to improve the level of efficiency and transparency of the current type approval process, while removing unnecessary administrative burdens on importers and manufacturers and to better facilitate competition in the choice and supply of RTTE. ictQATAR holds the authority to set RTTE Type Approval regime under Telecommunications Law no. 34 of 2006.

Type Approval is the procedure by which RTTE is authorized by ictQATAR to be imported into or to be used in Qatar in line with the applicable rules and procedures. It involves verification of the equipment's compliance with the applicable standards and requirements.

The proposed policy applies internationally recognized standards as the basis for the type approval process and simplifies the fee structure for type approval applications. The main advantage of the policy is to simplify and accelerate the type approval and importation processes for RTTE. The policy will ensure that only properly type-approved RTTE is imported and used in Qatar and that RTTE does not cause damage to, or interfere with, the operation of telecommunications networks or other equipment.

"With the continued liberalization of the telecommunications sector in Qatar, we expect high demand for the latest telecommunications equipment and technologies. ictQATAR is committed to developing an effective and simplified type approval regime that will allow telecommunications equipment into the market and promote competition to benefit consumers," said Ahmad Sultan, Licensing Section Manager at ictQATAR.

The proposed Type Approval Policy is available for review online at www.ictQATAR.qa and the public is invited to submit comments about the proposed policy by May 31, 2009.

Responses can be sent by email to [email protected] or by courier or post to:
Regulatory Authority
The Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology (ictQATAR)
Mr. Ahmad Sultan
Al Nasr Tower, 19th Floor
Corniche Road
P.O.Box: 23264
Doha, Qatar

At the end of the consultation period, ictQATAR will carefully review all responses received and finalize the Type Approval Policy for RTTE. ictQATAR may later develop and publish guidelines and procedures outlining how the policy will be implemented.