As Qatar’s Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) moves forward with its decision to phase out third-generation mobile services (IMT-2000) by December 31, 2025, further regulatory requirements have been implemented to ensure a smooth transition for consumers and the telecommunications sector.
New Import Declaration Requirement
In support of this national digital upgrade, the CRA now mandates importers of mobile devices to submit a signed and stamped official declaration from the main manufacturer. This document must explicitly:
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Confirm the permanent disabling of 2G and 3G functionalities on the device.
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Affirm that the device is fully compatible with Voice over LTE (VoLTE) services.
This policy is a critical part of CRA’s enforcement strategy to eliminate legacy technologies from circulation and prevent non-compliant hardware from entering the Qatari market.
Implications for Importers and Manufacturers
Failure to meet these declaration requirements can result in:
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Delays in the type approval process
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Denial of market entry for non-compliant devices
By tightening controls at the point of import, CRA ensures that only advanced, standards-compliant equipment contributes to the evolution of Qatar’s telecom infrastructure.
These measures reflect Qatar’s commitment to modernizing its communications landscape, in alignment with the Third National Development Strategy 2024–2030. The CRA’s forward-looking approach promotes faster connectivity, lower latency, and better end-user experiences—while maximizing the use of valuable radio spectrum resources.
For further assistance with CRA type approval, or help preparing compliant documentation for device imports into Qatar, please reach out to iCertifi.