bq | TECH l GCC TELECOM
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MAKING THE CALL As it eagerly embraces new technologies and new market realities, the GCC is keeping a close eye on competition and revenue-generating opportunities By Rabin Gupta and Shereen D’Souza, Doha
Kyle Whitehill, CEO, Vodafone Qatar
Smart phones and other latest handheld devices in everyone’s hands are just a microcosm of the telecom tidal wave that has hit the GCC region. As countries throughout the world become increasingly connected, the GCC is certainly not a region to be left behind. GCC telecom operators are increasingly adapting to the new market realities, and many are going the extra mile to ensure that there is a clear line of distinction from the competition. A.T. Kearney reveals that GCC telecom companies are focusing on redefining their service portfolios, improving the customer experience, and tapping into the opportunities that datasavvy consumers, businesses, and governments offer. Success in the next few years will depend on creating synergy across product portfolios and adjusting operating models to meet these new trends head on. The telecom sector in the GCC has witnessed quite a dramatic growth curve and despite the sector reaching its saturation point while dealing with the growing number of competitors post the financial crisis in 2008, the region has liberalised and evolved in this field, making way for some positive changes. www.bqdoha.com
bq january araboc pages.indd 49
12/24/2013 7:45:22 PM