ArabianBusiness.com - Middle East Business News
Thursday, 28 March 2024 20:12 UAE time

YOUR DIRECTORY /

Zain - Kuwait

Main Category: Internet Service Providers
First Address : 22244
Second Address : Airport Road
City : Kuwait City
Country : Kuwait
Phone: 965 4644444
Fax: 965 4837755
Email: info@zain.com
Website: www.zain.com


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ALL STORIES LIST


Kharafi asks minority shareholders to sell Zain stock

Adv't by National Inv'ts addresses shareholders who own no more than 300,000 Zain shares

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Kuwait's Zain up after trading resumes

UPDATE 2: In an ad, Kharafi had asked minority shareholders to sell Zain stock

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Qatar Telecom may buy Zain's Saudi unit - SICO

Strategic ambitions to expand operations in the region make QTel a takeover contender

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Major Zain shareholder backs Etisalat offer

Head of Kharafi Group says Etisalat offer is 'suitable and good for both parties'.

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Zain Saudi expects 60% revenue growth this year

Zain Saudi Arabia’s capital increase is to finance the company’s growth plans - CEO.

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Zain KSA plans to raise $1.2bn through rights issue

The move will fund the next phase of the company's growth in the kingdom - statement.

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Kuwait's Zain mulls Syrian telecom market

Zain waiting for Syrian gov't to issue the norms needed for applying and getting the license.

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Zain Iraq to start operations in Kurdistan in 2011

Gulf region's third largest telecoms firm expects revenue for 2011 to rise.

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Kuwait's Zain cuts workforce by 70% - paper

'The group's workforce has been lowered... in light of the new strategy for the group.'

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Kuwait's Zain Q2 net profit soars to $2.95bn

Company is 'well positioned to focus on and further grow its Midde East operations.'

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Zain receives $295.4m from Bharti for Africa sale

In June, Zain and Bharti closed a $9bn deal for Zain's African assets except Sudan, Morocco.

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Kuwait's Zain eyes Mideast investments

The telecom firm's CEO says the company's profits for the first half of this year will be 'good'.

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Third Bahrain mobile firm struggles to make impact - poll

Poll finds almost 50% of people are unaware a third mobile operator exists in the kingdom.

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Credit Suisse upgrades Kuwaiti telecom firm Zain

Firm upgraded by two notches to 'outperform', while share price target also raised.

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Kuwait's Zain in talks with Etisalat to sell stake - report

UPDATE 1: Telecoms firm reportedly in discussions to sell majority stake - paper.

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Kuwaiti's Zain reshuffles management

Kuwaiti telecom firm appoints new CFO, COO and chief technology officer.

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Zain says African sale profits are $2.7bn so far

Company said that profit figure is based on money received so far from the deal.

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Zain's Jordanian subsidiary gets $70.5m loan

Wholly owned unit Zain-Jordan is the largest mobile operator in the kingdom.

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Kuwait sovereign fund may sell 24.6% Zain stake

Managing director said in Oct 2009 that it would sell stake 'if price was right'.

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Zain to pay out big part of sale proceeds - chairman

Kuwaiti teleco to distribute part of returns from India's Bharti deal to its shareholders.

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Agility shares slump to three-week closing low

UPDATE 5: Stock drops 3.5% after reporting 52% fall in Q1 profits.

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Turkish company sees eye on Zain stakes - report

Turkish company is still searching on a preliminary basis into the issue - paper.

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Congo Republic protests over Zain-Bharti Airtel deal

Telecoms Minister said that both parties have 30 days to remedy the situation.

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Kuwait's Zain telecom swings to Q4 loss

Mobile operator posted annual net profit of $675.2m in 2009, down from 2008's $1.11bn.

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Bharti, Zain close to signing $9bn deal

Sources say firms are set to seal the deal for sale of Kuwaiti firm's African assets on Tuesday.

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Zain approves African assets sale to Bharti Airtel

Due diligence on deal is completed and sale documents will be signed shortly.

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Zain seen giving up on global plans - analyst

African asset deal means end of plans for global preeminence, says consultancy.

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Bharti gets $8.3bn in funding for Zain purchase

Bharti will get $7.5bn in loans from bank group led by Standard Chartered and Barclays.

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Zain shares rise after India's Bharti deal

UPDATE 5: Agility falls 5.1% on news of laid-off staff dragging index down.

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No obstacles seen to Zain-Bharti deal close - report

Both firms keen on closing sale of Zain's African assets to Bharti on March 25.

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Saudi index ends lower for first session in 4

UPDATE 5: Saudi weighed down by investment firm Kingdom Holding.

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Zain pledged not to sell Nigerian unit to Bharti - Econet

Zain Nigeria is the largest market in the 15 countries Zain operates, with 14m subscribers.

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Zain to focus on Gulf and Middle East regions

Returns from sale of African assets provides telecoms firm with cash for new investments.

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Indian telco lines up $9bn loans for Zain deal

Bharti Airtel secures finance to take over Kuwait firm's African assets - report.

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A shame for Zain

After all the promises of preeminence, it’s sad to see the telco giant sell off its hard-won assets, says Ed Attwood.

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Bharti, Zain's $9bn deal could be signed this week - report

Letter of intent expected to be inked, to include official offer and payment schedule.

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Zain's Africa asset sale is strategic move - report

Zain's decision to sell assets to Indian co not due to financial pressures.

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Four GCC telcos in top 500 global brands list

Index says Zain is top regional performer; Etisalat, STC and Qtel also on list.

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Bharti sees total payout for Zain deal at $9bn

Indian firm had previously said deal had an enterprise value of $10.7bn.

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Zain Kuwait claims 500% rise in mobile broadband usage

'We thought the trend was localised, but it looks like it is all over [the region].'

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Zain expects return up to $5bn from Bharti deal

UPDATE: Zain shares jump 9.3% while Bharti Airtel extends losses.

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Bharti eyes Africa in $11bn bid for Zain assets

Companies have till March 25 to seal the 2nd largest deal in 2010.

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Indian telco confirms talks on $10.7bn Zain units sale

Bharti Airtel says it is looking to buy Kuwait company's African assets.

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Mind the gap

With the ICT sector often perceived as being male dominated, CommsMEA takes a look at the gender split among telcos in the region and asks what needs to be done to redress the balance.

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Zain stake sale seen setting back Kuwait aspirations

Sale of Zain's African unit an 'end of an era of expansion' - Analysts.

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Zain board OKs $10.7bn Bharti bid for Africa ops

Deal is one of the biggest cross border transactions in the Middle East in years.

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Kuwait index sees largest gain for six months

UPDATE 7: Dubai's index loses most for three weeks on Dubai World debt concerns.

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Zain gets offer from Bharti for African assets - report

UPDATE3: Kuwaiti teleco's board expected to meet soon to discuss $10.7bn offer.

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Kuwait's Zain names new CEO

Nabil Bin Salama to replace Saad Al Barrak who resigned at Kuwaiti teleco; assumes role on Feb 14.

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Zain appoints acting CEO - paper

Kuwaiti telecoms company appoints chief executive of its Kuwaiti unit as acting CEO of group.

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Nigeria rises

Despite fierce competition and low ARPU, Nigeria’s operators are optimistic about market growth and data services.

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Kuwait's Zain accepts CEO's resignation

UPDATE 1: Kuwaiti former minister of communication tipped to be new CEO of company - paper.

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Zain to attempt to revive deal with Paltel

Deal for Zain to acquire 56% share of company through share swap collapsed last Nov.

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Zain to offer international calls on Wataniya flights

Passengers will be able to receive phone calls mid-air as well as read and send emails - CEO.

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Bahrain: phones getting busier

Batelco and Zain are set to face increased competition in the coming year, says Oliver Cornock.

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Straight talker

Zain Iraq’s CEO, Ali Al-Dahwi, tells George Bevir about the challenges of growing a mobile operation in the Iraqi market.

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Qatar market bucks downward trend to end higher

UPDATE 3: Blue chips soar, while Zain stocks drag Kuwait, Bahrain ends down.

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Zain boss named CFO of the Year at Dubai awards

Sam Deeb credited with driving the firm's growth from single operator to group of 24 operators.

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Kuwait's Zain posts 52.8% drop in Q3 net profit

Arab world's third largest telco hit by high financing costs, currency fluctuations.

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Zain expects $1bn shortfall on 2009 revenue target

Kuwaiti mobile operator's CEO says global crisis will have impact on performance.

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BSNL to go direct to Zain if consortium talks fail

Indian-led consortium aims to take a 46 percent holding in the Kuwaiti firm.

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Securities Co clients want to join Kharafi Zain sale

Clients looking to sell at already agreed to price of 2 dinars per share, firm says.

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UAE bourses end on positive note

UPDATE 7: Bullish comments about economic prospects lift stocks.

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Kuwait's Securities Group eyes stake in telco Zain

Company studying move to buy part of all of Kuwait Investment Authority's stake.

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Econet disputes Zain ownership of Zain Nigeria

UPDATE 1: S African mobile operator's claim could derail Kuwait Zain's divestment plans.

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Kuwait's Kharafi says could sell majority in Zain

Group has already inked deal with Asian investors to sell 46% stake in Kuwaiti telco. 

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Consortium wants controlling stake in Zain - BSNL

Chairman does not indicate what stakes consortium members are looking to take.

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India's BSNL yet to decide on Zain deal

Indian telco still mulls whether to join a consortium that's buying 46% a stake in Kuwaiti co.

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India's BSNL to bid for Millicom Sri Lanka unit

UPDATE 2: UAE's Etisalat said on Monday it had tabled offer for Sri Lankan assets.

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India's BSNL, MTNL doing due diligence for Zain - report

Indian ambassador to Kuwait confirms development in published remarks.

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Zain CEO to stick to goals after stake sale - paper

Family conglomerate Kharafi Group plans to sell a 46 percent stake in Zain.

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India's BSNL, MTNL say yet to decide on Zain deal

State-run firms say in statement they are always on lookout to explore overseas opps.

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Indian, Malaysian consortium to buy Zain stake - Kharafi

Group will pay KD2 a share for 46% stake in Arab world's 3rd largest telco worth $13.7bn.

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Sleeping giant

The telecom sector in Madagascar has experienced tremendous growth over the past few years, but recent political turmoil threatens to disrupt the trend.

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India’s Reliance denies Kuwait Zain stake link

India’s second largest telco says not in talks to buy stake in Zain, or purchase African assets.

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ADIA part of Zain stake group - report

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority said to be part of Asian group buying 46% stake in Kuwait telecom firm.

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Zain stocks fall amid sale talks

UPDATE 7: Kuwait telecom firm shares fall 6.4%, while Dubai, Saudi close up.

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Kuwait's Zain close to 46% stake sale - report

UPDATE 2: Telco said to be selling stake to Asian group in deal worth $13.7bn.

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Palestine's Wataniya Mobile sets network deadline

Telco gives Sept. 15 deadline for access to frequencies, otherwise will seek compensation.

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Al Mal cuts Zain rating after Africa sale rally

Current share price overestimated how much the firm could get its African assets' sale - Al Mal.

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Reliance Comm eyes Zain's Africa ops - sources

India's No. 2 mobile operator in preliminary talks to buy Kuwaiti teleco's Africa ops.

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Zain shareholders to vote on ownership restrictions

Lifting limits would pave the way for selling a large stake in Kuwait telecom firm.

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Zain shares hit 10-month closing high

UPDATE 6: Zain surges 7.6% to boost Kuwait; UAE markets decline while Saudi rises.

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Gaining first mover advantage

Zain Bahrain’s recently announced plan to upgrade its network to LTE came as a surprising development for the region’s telecoms sector

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Zain Bahrain plans region’s first LTE network

NSN wins contract for the LTE upgrade of Zain Bahrain’s network

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Zain Saudi Arabia seals $2.5bn loan

Facility to be used to repay existing Murabaha, as well as fund network expansion and future growth.

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Out of Africa

As Zain looks for an exit from its short-lived African adventure, CommsMEA looks at Zain’s African operations and asks what other Middle East telcos need to do to make a success of their own African empires.

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Egypt's Mobinil Q2 net jumps 26%, beats forecasts

UPDATE 2: Egyptian mobile operator adds a further 1.674m customers in Q2.

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KIA may consider Zain stake sale

Report says Kuwait's sovereign wealth fund would look at serious offers providing an attractive return.

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Kuwait's Zain Q2 net up 5.5% as subs rise

CEO, citing improving currency stability in the firm's African ops, expects an even better second half.

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Etisalat eyes 51% stake in Kuwait's Zain

Jamal al-Jarwan says the telecom firm is keen on Zain stake at the right price.

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Vivendi breaks Zain talks over Africa assets

UPDATE 4: Kuwaiti telco still conducting strategic review, other parties said interested.

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Zain Ghana gains $160 million funding

IFC provides funds for the expansion of Zain’s mobile network throughout Ghana

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Vivendi seeks $6.26bn loan for Zain buy

French media and telecoms giant's syndicated loan to be refinanced via bond, equity issues.

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Emirates NBD drags Dubai index to 7-week low

UPDATE 4: Emirates NBD falls 2.1 percent, taking its losses to six percent.

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West misses a trick as mobile money takes off

‘Mobile money' is proving extremely popular with the masses in the world's emerging economies.

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Zain in early talks on Africa ops stake sale

UPDATE 2: CEO says Kuwaiti mobile operator in early stake sale talks regarding African ops, but denies Vivendi deal.

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WiMAX gains momentum

The recent WiMAX Forum MENA event in Dubai demonstrated that attitudes to the 4G technology have matured from the overly simplistic “LTE versus WiMAX” debate that had previously characterised the technology.

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Vivendi chief declines comment on possible Zain bid

No comment follows media reports Zain is looking to offload its African division.

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Iran strips Zain of mobile licence - report

Iran government says Kuwait-based telecoms co failed to 'fulfil its obligations'.

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Tough conditions

There can be few more demanding environments for a mobile operator than Palestine. Jawwal's CEO, Amar Aker, tells George Bevir how the company is facing up to its many challenges.

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Breaking free

Operators in the region say they want to be left alone to develop high speed broadband that will propel the region along the information superhighway. But what role is there for the government?

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Zain mulling $10bn sale of Africa unit - sources

Kuwaiti telco may sanction sale of all or part of unit after review has been completed.

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Zain, Western Union in money transfer services deal

Mobile money transfer services on offer through Zap platform of Kuwait's Zain.

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Right to roam

For postpaid and prepaid mobile users alike, roaming in the Middle East is often a cause of much frustration.

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Kuwait's Zain renewing $2.5bn Islamic loan - banker

Deal includes a 6-month extension option at the mobile operator's request.

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Price guide

CommsMEA takes a look at some of the factors that will have an impact on the mobile tariffs of tomorrow.

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Zain looking to sell African ops to Europe's Vivendi

Kuwait's biggest mobile operator awaiting reply from entertainment group Vivendi - paper.

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Zain looking to sell African ops to Europe's Vivendi

Kuwait's biggest mobile operator awaiting reply from entertainment group Vivendi - paper

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Zain Nigeria inks outsourcing deal with Ericsson

Operator aims to boost efficiency after signing five year outsourcing deal.

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Zain looks to close $12bn deal to sell Africa unit - report

Kuwait operator hoping to sell Celtel Africa to unnamed French company - Al Qabas.

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Legal fight looms over Iraq's $20m mobile fines

Operators question legality of fines imposed by Ministry of Telecoms

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Investors warned to stay out of Iraq

Zain Iraq CEO says country is "behind Russia under Stalin"

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Zain chief in plea over future of broadband

Telecom firm's CEO 'begs' gov'ts to leave high-tech development to the private sector.

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Zain CEO slams government involvement in broadband

CEO says that partnerships with the public sector are “ridiculous”

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Zain expects ‘historic’ year for earnings

Kuwait's Zain expects to take its customer base to 90 million - Chief Executive Officer Saad Al Barrak.

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Orange only bidder for Jordan's 3G mobile licence

Bids invited in March were also expected from Zain and Xpress, but only Orange bid.

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Profit taking sees Saudi market close lower

UPDATE 8: Qatar index suffers largest one day decline in 5 weeks, Dubai closes higher.

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Kuwait's Zain buys majority stake in Paltel

UPDATE 3: Share swap deal sees 1.5m subscribers added to customer base.

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Zain buys 56% stake in Palestinian telecom firm

Kuwait firm obtains stake as part of share swap with PalTel that operates in Gaza.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

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Zain seals deal for Paltel

Mobile operator Zain has completed a share swap deal for Paltel that will see it take control of Palestine’s only mobile operator

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Zain adds 3G capability to 'One Network'

Kuwaiti mobile operator targets business travelers with improved roaming data service

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Zain Bahrain to offer mobile entertainment

Mobile operator to offer its customers music and video downloads after forming partnership with entertainment giant

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Weakest link

Operators must take a comprehensive look at their networks to ensure maximum security as they migrate towards IP architecture.

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Zain sees Q1 profits rise 3.3%

Kuwaiti telco operator benefits from expansion programme abroad as customer base increases.

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Zain poised to make 2,000 job cuts before 2011

Kuwait's mobile phone operator announces plans to cut its 15,500 strong workforce.

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Abu Dhabi banks rally, Gulf tracks global gains

UPDATE 3: Qatar QSI posts the strongest gains in the region, rallying more than two percent.

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Kuwait's Zain eyes $5bn for buys by 2011 - paper

Telco eyes expansion in Asia, MENA region and is currently in talks to move into Syria - CEO.

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Zain sees Q1 net profit close to 2008 level

Kuwait's Mobile Telecommunications Co sees first-quarter net profit to be close to $251m - paper.

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Middle East operators eye Indian expansion

Etisalat and Zain reveal details of their plans to expand in India

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Dubai ends up, Taqa leads Abu Dhabi gains

UPDATE3: Investors see value in Abu Dhabi National Energy's expansion plans.

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Zain to acquire 31% stake in Wana

Zain set to gain foothold in Morocco after agreeing to invest in Wana.

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Zain takes 31% stake in Wana

Kuwaiti mobile telco confirms $324m stake in Wana, a unit of Morocco's biggest conglomerate ONA.

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Saudi Zain's CEO steps down

Telecoms company chief Marwan al-Almadi resigns, according to statement on Saudi exchange website.

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Telkom seen as takeover target

Africa's biggest fixed-line phone operator could be an acquisition target for Gulf-based companies.

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Kuwait shares post major gains

Market posts biggest one-day gain since December as stalled economic reforms may now speed up.

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Abu Dhabi ends in green for ninth straight day

UPDATE4: Taqa adds most points to ADI; Dubai's DFM, Saudi close lower.

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Zain Group posts record results for 2008

Strong full year results dented by decline in fourth quarter profits

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Zain on track to meet profit expectations

Kuwaiti mobile telco set to meet net profit goal in 2009 after posting a 1.8% rise in Q4 2008 earnings.

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Plan to charge for incoming calls to mobiles - Kuwait

Two unnamed telecomms firms plan to reintroduce fees for calls from landlines.

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Kuwaiti operators consider incoming call charges

Sources blame increased network pressure and high Ministry fees as reasons behind decision

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Zain sticks with 'challenging' subscriber targets

Kuwaiti mobile telco firm reiterates African subscriber targets, despite global economy.

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Kuwait's Zain eyes 3 new acquisitions

Mobile Telecommunications CEO tells paper, company is exploring options in MENA region.

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Rebranding

The value of telecom operators' brands is rising, and with a raft of acquisitions occurring in the region rebranding can be a vital part of the process of expanding into new territories.

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Taking stock

Despite plummeting business and consumer confidence in the region, telecom operators that make the right moves stand to emerge stronger from the downturn.

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Kuwait's Zain in talks to partner PalTel in Palestine

UPDATE 1: Gulf state's telecom major eyes strategic partnership with Palestinian firm.

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Qatar ends 9-day losing streak; UAE markets end mixed

UPDATE 4: Shares of Industries Qatar and Qatar National Bank lead rally in Doha.

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Saudi Telecom hit by 62% profits slump

Saudi Telecom, the Arab world's largest telco, has reported a worse-than expected 62% slump in Q4 profits

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Major Arab bourses end in red; banks suffer

UPDATE 4: Savola Group, National Bank of Abu Dhabi see major slips.

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Zain Madagascar upgrades network

Zain Group hires Ericsson to expand and upgrade its network in African nation

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Orascom, Zain to run two Lebanese mobile firms

Telecom majors' deal with MTC Touch and Alfa mobile networks worth $145mn.

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Gulf bourses end in red on Q4 earnings fears

UPDATE 6: UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi and Bahrain exchanges all end lower.

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Zain CEO pledges to protect staff from global turmoil

Telecoms chief says 'dynamic approach' will be adopted to deal with slowdown.

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Kuwait mobile giant expects 30% profit rise

Zain chief executive says company finances 'very healthy' amid global crisis.

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Saudi Zain says mobile users 1mn in Sept

Third operator which launched in Aug. expects to turn a profit in its third year.

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Cashing in on the future

Keeping ahead of the competition is vital for any successful business. But identifying the next big thing - or the next big threat - is not easy. George Bevir speaks to some of the world’s leading futurologists about the business of mapping the future.

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Telcos Zain and Qtel register top ARPU worldwide

Chairman of GSM Arab World reveals regional stats at GSM > 3G Middle East conference

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Bahrain regulator delays mobile bid deadline to '09

Bahrain's wealth fund also looking to sell down stakes in companies, including Batelco.

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Kuwait's Zain eyes $4bn acquisitions by 2010

Third-largest Arab telecoms company looking to expand in Africa and Middle East.

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Iraq's regulatory woes

Healthy competition is helping develop Iraq’s telecoms sector, but a regulatory vacuum is leading to doubts about the market’s potential.

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Zain increases stake in Iraq mobile operation

Operator gains management control of Iraqi operation

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Against all odds

Nigeria promises to be a telecoms powerhouse, but corruption and crime are stifling growth.

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Four firms bid for Rwandan licence

Zain and Millicom International among companies short listed for Rwanda’s third mobile licence

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Cash saver

With ARPUs falling and competition growing, operators are increasingly looking at retaining existing customers, as well as winning rivals’ subscribers, as a means of growing their business.

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Zain debuts prepaid mobile internet in Kuwait

e-GO2GO service offers high speed connectivity to subscribers using a plug-and-play USB device

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Kuwait's bull run turns bearish

Kuwait rode the emerging market wave for most of this year but now the mood is changing. Soren Billing reports.

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Oct 17 start for Kuwait phone number shake-up

Phase one of new system will see changes made to landline and mobile numbers.

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Calculated risks

Africa’s most populous country Nigeria has great potential for telecom operators looking to expand their business in the region.

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Kuwait telco Zain completes $4.5bn capital increase

Anxiously anticipated outcome sees new 50% discounted shares 99% taken up.

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Beyond borders

After rebranding its African operations and expanding its roaming network, Zain outlines its aim to become one of the world's leading mobile operators by 2011 and unite its users throughout the Middle East and Africa.

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Beacon of change

Bahrain is home to one of the region's most liberal telecom sectors, but challenges persist for the country's many operators.

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Zain meeting Jordan's capacity needs

Zain is building a fibre-optic network to meet current and future demand for capacity. The fibre-optic network, installed across much of Jordan, is set to strengthen the country's position as the most liberalised and competitive market in the Arab world.

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Launch date set for Zain's Saudi mobile service

Kuwait telecom giant's service will cover 95% of the kingdom, plans to invest up to $8bn.

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Crackdown launched on mobile phone pests

One Bahraini man phoned mall with bomb threat in bid to postpone shopping trip.

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Zain starts mobile operations in KSA

Saudi Arabia will become part of Zain’s One Network from the start of operations.

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Zain to raise US$4.5 billion

Zain to raise funds from share offering to finance regional expansion.

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Emerging telecom markets lure operators

While regional telecom operators continue to push into new markets in and around the region, there appears to be a growing disparity between the potential of markets in much of Middle East, and those in Africa and other emerging markets.

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Bahrain set to offer third telecom contract

Batelco and Zain to get new rival for country's telecom customers early next year.

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Zain to list on London bourse in Q1

Kuwait-based mobile phone firm announces move at relaunch of African operations under Zain brand.

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Kuwait Zain shares drop after Q2 profit disappoints

Rumours of takeover denied by company lead to short-lived surge.

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Zain Q2 net falls, insists targets achievable

UPDATE 1: Quarterly net income of $557mn down 3.6% but full year predicted 5% ahead.

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Forging ahead

The Arab Advisors' Conference brought together the top telecom executives in the Arab world to discuss the defining issues surrounding the industry today.

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Zain signals intent to fight for South Africa licence

Kuwaiti telecom eager to enter market as part of continued expansion across Africa.

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Zain aims for global dominance

Kuwait-based operator wants to join top ten companies by 2011

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Network news

Kuwait-based Zain boasts year-on-year customer growth of 50% - but an even better story is on the way.

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Zain protecting mobile subscribers with free AV

Zain Kuwait is offering its subscribers a free anti-virus application to protect their mobile devices

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Mobily looks to boost market share in '08

Saudi telecom to increase share above 40% despite arrival of third telecom operator, CEO says.

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Zain to enter Mali by year-end

WEFME: Kuwait-based telecom could also seal agreements in two more African countries, chief exec says.

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Zain to raise up to $5bn in Europe listing

WEFME: Kuwait-based telecom may sell a part of the whole company or international unit.

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Zain Iraq to upgrade network with Nokia Siemens

Network upgrade project to increase Zain Iraq's capacity to twelve million subscribers

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Zain posts Q108 profits of $270.5m

Telecom operator Zain grows profits 10% year-on-year, hits 45.7 million active users

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Zain creates single Middle East network

'One Network' enables mobile customers in Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan and Sudan to call and text at local rates.

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Zain to create 'One Network' for Middle East operations

Zain to offer customers in Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan and Sudan local service and rates across all four countries

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Forging ahead

With a brand new risk assessment procedure, Kuwait's Zain Telecom is working towards an impregnable data stronghold.

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Arab technology leaders storm onto list of powerful Arabs

New report on the world's most influential Arabs shows technology specialists in prime positions

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Regional WiMAX projects proceeding despite claims technology 'failed miserably'

CEO of Australian WiMAX operator says WiMAX a 'disaster'

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Zain Saudi Arabia to launch operations by June

Kingdom's third mobile operator will initially cover 53% of population with own nextwork.

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Africa on the line

Middle East-based phone companies start their assault on Africa’s booming telecoms sector.

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Bahrain to allow third mobile operator in '09

Telecom will compete with Batelco and firm linked with Kuwait's Zain, magazine reports.

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Bahrain calls for greater telecoms competition

Head of regulatory body says operators Batelco and Zain operate 'cosy duopoly'.

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Ruler of the game

Nominations to NME Innovation Awards 2008 and other factors clearly show that end-users have the power to drive the IT market in the Middle East

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Zain Saudi Arabia IPO 183% oversubscribed

Over eight million Saudis offer $4.8bn towards IPO of third mobile operator.

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Architects of expansion

After signing a landmark contract with Zain to roll out a mobile network in Saudi Arabia, Nokia Siemens Networks outlines its blueprint for expansion in the MENA region and beyond.

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Zain denies Syria acquisition

Kuwaiti operator says it is not in 'advanced' talks over Syriatel Mobile Telecom acquisition.

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Zain denies Vodafone interest

British telecoms group not in talks to buy 'significant or majority' stake in Kuwait operator, Zain says

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Saudi Zain mulls IPO increase

Operator could sell more than originally planned 40% stake in offering as early as next month.

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Nokia Siemens bags $935mn Saudi deal

Joint venture beats Ericsson and Huawei for contract to build wireless networks in kingdom.

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Zain re-brands its Iraqi operations

Iraq to be included in Zain's extended network from the first half of 2008.

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Zain signs $1.2bn Islamic loan

Operator agrees with egional and international lenders to refinance existing debt for same amount.

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MENA telcos take on the rest of the world

While Western firms target the region's telco sector, local players are looking to expand their horizons beyond the MENA region.

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Zain Jordan goes to market

Zain Jordan joins Tejari for online e-procurement services

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Last Arab telecoms monopoly falls

Britain's Vodafone beats rivals including Etisalat and Zain to win Qatar's second mobile phone licence.

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Zain to aggressively target assets abroad

Kuwaiti operator set to pursue growth strategy by buying assets in Middle East and Africa, analysts say.

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Zain plans to raise capital by 75%

Kuwaiti telco set to increase liquidity to help fund growth strategy.

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Zain acquires Iraqi rival for $1.2 billion

Kuwaiti operator enters Iraqi market with acquisition of Iraqna

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Zain to fund expansion with $4.4bn share sale

Telecom plans to raise capital by 75% for expansion in Africa and the Middle East.

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Zain buys Iraqna for $1.2bn

Purchase gives MTC Atheer Iraq customer base of more than seven million as Orascom exits country.

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Zain to swoop on European market

Kuwait's incumbent telco signals intention to enter Europe.

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Zain wants Europe telco buyout in 2008

Kuwaiti telecom says wants to make acquisition in Europe as early as next year, may sell more shares soon.

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GCC governments holding back privatisation

LEADERS IN DUBAI: Gulf governments are stifling economic development, according to senior executives.

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Zain boosts profits by 12%

Network upgrades and new licence agreements expected to fuel further growth, according to CEO, Saad Al Barrak

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Kuwait telco Zain Q3 profit jumps to $312mn

Third-biggest Arab telecom firm says third-quarter profit rose 7.1% to 87 million Kuwaiti dinars

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Zain mulls capital increase

Kuwaiti telecom considering move among number of options to finance expansion.

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H108 launch for Zain's Saudi operations

Zain aiming for first half of next year to launch operations; no price war with STC or Mobily says CEO

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Embracing competition

There is seldom a quiet week in the MENA region's comms sector. In the past couple of weeks alone there have been some major announcements from regional telecom companies, mainly about foreign expansion, with some key deals announced.

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Zain CEO calls for ‘business UN’

Al Barrak suggests global body to manage world economy free of political agendas

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Fighting to talk

Two of Middle East's heavyweight telcos are facing off in the battle to secure Qatar's second mobile licence.

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Zain pays $120mn for Ghana telco

Second-largest Arab operator to buy 75% of Western Telesystems from the Ghanaian gov't.

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Zain joins campaign against market reforms

Kuwait's largest publicly traded company urges exchange to retract latest investment rules.

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GSM sector comes of age

The recent GSM-3G Middle East and Gulf convention staged in Dubai proved a strong draw for a host of multinational companies keen to tap the regional telecommunications market. CommsMEA caught up with some of the key players in attendance.

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Man of the year

Recent CommsMEA lifetime achievement winner Zain CEO Dr Saad Al Barrak on the firm's regional aspirations.

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Kuwait's Kharafi raises stake in Zain

Family-owned conglomerate now controls over 9.5% of second largest Arab telecom firm.

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Nationwide wireless broadband rolled out in Bahrain

Operator Zain launches Wimax to give users wireless internet access anywhere.

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Kuwait's Kharafi raises Zain stake

Family-owned conglomerate increases share in telecom operator to 9.46% from 9.27% previously.

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Kuwait sets Nov 18 mobile deadline

A 26% stake in country's third mobile firm will go to highest offer in single bidding round.

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Zain to move to Bahrain

Regional telco giant eschews Amsterdam and Dubai in favour of Bahrain for new international HQ.

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Kuwait setback as Zain opts for Bahrain

Decision to move international operations HQ next year is a 'slap in the face' for Kuwait, says analyst.

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Seven proceed in Qatar licence auction

Etisalat, Batelco and Zain all remain in the running for country's second mobile phone licence.

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Etisalat, Zain bid for Qatar licence

Results of the auction for Qatar's second mobile phone licence are expected in four weeks.

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Talking your way to the top

Christina Corbett catches up with Etisalat CEO Mohammad Al Qamzi, and asks how the company plans to stay ahead of the competition.

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Kharafi unit ups MTC stake

Kuwaiti group buys more shares in telco through Al-Khair National for Stocks and Real Estate.

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Winning touch

At the beginning of this month CommsMEA hosted its second annual awards night, which was aimed at acknowledging the significant progress that continues to be made in the telecoms space across the Middle East and Africa.

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Regional firms are going global

While the world's big telcos talk about emerging market opportunities, operators from ME are going global.

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MTC rebrands as Zain

New identity will propel the group forward in its goal to become one of the top ten global mobile operators, says Al Barrak.

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MTC signs $7.4bn Islamic loans

Kuwaiti telco signs two Islamic loans to help pay for licence it won to operate Saudi Arabian mobile network.

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MTC to use new brand name

Kuwait's Mobile Telecommunications Company will be known under new brand name Zain from Sunday.

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MTC says expansion to weigh on profit

Kuwaiti telco expects income growth to slow to zero this year as it invests in regional expansion.

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Profile: Saad Al Barrak

A distinguished engineer, Dr Saad Al Barrak has headed up MTC, one of the region's most powerful telecom companies, since 2002.

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MTC scores hat-trick at CommsMEA awards

Company chief executive Saad Al Barrak picks up Lifetime Achievement award.

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Kuwait gov't fights to keep MTC at home

Acting communications minister opposes mobile operator's plans to move its headquarters out of Kuwait.

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Bahrain claims victory on MTC move

Kuwait's mobile telecom giant is planning to shift its headquarters to Bahrain, according to reports.

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Kuwait red tape is strangling business

Economic experts warn that MTC's flight from Kuwait could be the start of a catastrophic trend.

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MTC to quit Kuwait due to investor laws

Deputy chairman quoted as saying Kuwait 'repels' investment, laws 'not good for financial hub'.

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MTC mulls Kuwait exit

Second largest Arab telecom operator plans to move headquarters to either Bahrain, Dubai or Amsterdam.

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Huge boost to Iraqi mobile coverage predicted

Communications minister says new licences will improve networks dramatically.

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Iraq announces mobile winners

Licences were awarded to MTC, Asiacell and Korek on Friday in a $3.75bn auction in the Jordanian capital.

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Arab telecom giants vie for Iraqi licences

UPDATE 11am: Iraq sets $300mn as the starting price in today's auction of three 15-year mobile licences.

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Kharafi raises MTC stake

Kuwaiti group raises stake and shifts shares in telecom operator to another unit.

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MTC Kuwait hands Motorola network upgrade

Motorola to help operator expand its HSDPA network, and deploy HSUPA technology in Kuwait.

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Permanent licensing in Iraq afoot

There have been a series of false dawns with respect to the permanent licensing of mobile operators in Iraq, though it appears that at last concrete moves are being made in this direction.

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His move

Marwan Alahmadi is MTC Group's former chief strategy officer, who three months ago was appointed to head the company's foray into the rapidly evolving and fiercely competitive Saudi Arabian telecoms market. He will be required to balance his understanding of the strategic importance of the investment with the challenges present on the ground in Saudi Arabia, and it will be no easy task to make the huge upfront investment a success.

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MTC to invest in Congo Republic

Kuwaiti telecom plans to invest up to $484mn in the central African country over the next five years.

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Kuwait extends third mobile bids

Bidding for a stake in country's planned third mobile phone operator has been extended by one month.

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Kuwait telco deadline extended

The deadline for companies interested in investing in Kuwait's third mobile operator has been extended to August 7.

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Saudi investor could take MTC stake September

Newspaper says a Saudi investor is likely to take a stake of at least 10% in Kuwait's MTC.

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Time to deliver

I recently had the opportunity to spend time with Marwan Al Ahmadi, the mild-mannered CEO of MTC's nascent operation in Saudi Arabia.

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MTC in $320mn Africa loan

Kuwaiti mobile firm will borrow from the IFC and other institutions to finance expansion in Africa.

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Talking with telco giants

The region's telecoms market belongs to a handful of key players, each of which is hungry and hunting the next big prize.

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MTC denies European takeover speculation

The Kuwaiti telecoms giant has denied rumours it is to be the subject of a large European takeover bid.

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Wheels in motion for Kuwait's third mobile operator

The committee responsible for the formation of Kuwait's third cellular operator has invited expressions of interest from firms.

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Kuwait invites bids for 3rd mobile firm

Companies are invited to express interest in a 26% stake of the country's third mobile phone company.

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MTC eyes Algerie Telecom stake

Kuwait's MTC is considering a bid for a stake in the Algerian state-run telecoms firm.

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Qatar names mobile shortlist

12 firms have been named eligible to bid for the country's second mobile licence.

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Kuwait's third mobile firm to sell 76% stake

Government plans to offer 50% through an IPO and to sell a 26% stake direct to investors.

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Kharafi won't act alone on MTC sale

Group says any sale of MTC will be alongside other investors.

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MTC's Celtel gets $320mn loan

World Bank arm arranges financing package for African mobile operator to upgrade networks.

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Kuwait clears MTC in trading probe

Stock exchange says probe into record trading volume found 'nothing against the law.'

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Saudi MTC to sell 40% of shares

Saudi Arabia's third mobile firm wins $6.11bn licence bid, will sell 40% of shares to public.

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Saudi talks to buy MTC stake postponed

Disagreement over pricing prompts postponement of deal by an unidentified Saudi investor.

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Kuwait's expanding coverage

Mobile providers are pushing forward the country's telecoms sector as they expand in new coverage areas.

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Coming to Africa

The African telecoms market has been identified as a potential battleground for the next wave of market liberalisation in the wider region, incorporating the Middle East. A study by market analysts Booz Allen Hamilton examines the prospects.

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Mobitel enters US$363 million funding agreement

Kuwait-based MTC Group has inked a US$363.3 million development deal for its Sudanese venture Mobitel.

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MTC may bid for Qatar cell licence

Kuwait's telecoms giant has said it is interested in bidding for Qatar's second mobile phone licence.

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Lebanon TRA unveils licensing plans

The country's telecoms regulator claims it will issue licences before the end of the year.

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MTC borrows $362m to expand Sudan network

MTC will use murabaha facility to expand Mobitel network across 80% of Sudan.

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MTC denies Celtel sale rumour

Kuwaiti mobile firm denies report it is in talks to sell part of its Celtel unit.

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MTC closes Celtel deal

Mobile Telecommunications Company (MTC) last week completed its acquisition of African telecoms giant Celtel.

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Expanding its reach

The recent announcement of three new fixed-line players in the Saudi Arabian telecoms market gave Bahrain's Batelco another chance to drive forward its growth plans under CEO Peter Kaliaropoulos. He speaks to Ronan Shields about the moves the firm is making.

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Kuwait bourse ends MTC probe

Decision on MTC probe is expected within 10 days.

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Kuwait bourse draws Kharafi Group into MTC probe

A unit of the conglomerate has been asked to co-operate in the record trading inquiry.

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MTC shares reverse early loss

Kuwaiti telecoms company reversed early losses today after reporting slow profit growth.

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Lighting the way

With the rise of equality in the region an increasing number of women executives are finding their way to the forefront of their fields.

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Best laid plans

How Middle Eastern businesses are preparing their defences and securing company data against rising threats in the region.

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GCC telcos ring up solid profits in 1Q07

Earnings growth remains strong despite high market valuations.

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Kuwaiti bourse probes MTC shares

Unusually active trading in the telecoms company has prompted an investigation.

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Kuwait bourse continues probe into MTC trading

The country's stock exchange saw a record number of shares in the telecoms company last week, provoking investigations.

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Kuwait's MTC shares suspended pending report

The Kuwait stock exchange has halted trading in shares of Mobile Telecommunications pending clarification of a newspaper report.

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Revealed: Gulf's most admired companies

Arabian Business has published its '50 Most Admired' list of regional companies.

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Kuwait's MTC in Iraq phone licence talks

Mobile Telecommunications Co. seeks a long-term mobile phone licence, says its MD.

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Moto accelerates MTC data services

MTC Kuwait is deploying Motorola's Global Applications Management Architecture (GAMA) solution to optimise the speed of data services on its network.

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Orascom and MTNL lose their way in Saudi licence bid

Saudi Arabia's Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) has short-listed seven bidders for the next stage of the kingdom's process to award a third GSM licence.

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Brave new world

Saudi Arabia's changing economy is dragging its enterprises into a new competitive environment; ACN looks at how firms are leveraging IT to make the most of the opportunities in the Kingdom.

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Competition commences

The desert state of Namibia in East Africa has been one of the last countries in the region to open its telecoms market to competition. The arrival of Powercom is likely to help the national agenda in the effort to boost the population's access to ICT facilities by 2030.

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First ever Lebanese TRA penned in for spring launch

Regulator is believed to be a precursor to further liberalisation.

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MTC Group tops Saudi bid with UD$6.12 billion offer

The operator expects to launch in the kingdom early in 2008.

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MTC set to claim third Saudi mobile licence

Kuwait's Mobile Telecommunications Company (MTC) looks set to become Saudi Arabia's third mobile operator after placing the highest bid for the licence.

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Arabian Business recognises Kuwait's market leaders

A number of high-profile government and business leaders gathered in Kuwait City on Monday for the inaugural Arabian Business Kuwaiti achievement awards.

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Saudi last chance saloon for telcos

The auction for Saudi Arabia’s third mobile licence is the “last chance” for operators looking to invest in the Gulf, according to telecom advisory firm Analysys.

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MTC Group announces record US$1 billion

Kuwait operator gears up for further expansion in Saudi Arabia.

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Counting the unconnected

For some years now the GSM Association has been driving forward the case for expanding accessibility of telecoms services to the most underdeveloped parts of the world. In order for any industry body to work it requires support from commercial entities, and this is what the GSM Association's Development Fund has been able to initiate.

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Bidders circle third Saudi GSM license

Kuwait's MTC is favourite to secure the lucrative third mobile license in an upcoming auction.

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Kuwait's MTC eyes $4bn London listing

A unit of the telcoms company hopes to sell shares in the UK capital next year.

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Nine bidders for 3rd Saudi mobile licence

Prince Alwaleed's Kingdom Holding is among those vying for a slice of the Gulf's largest telecom market.

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Easy as MTC

Kuwait-based telecoms company MTC Group posted a consolidated income of US$1.051bn in 2006, an increase of 65% compared with the previous year.

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Lebanon sells off state mobile firms

Government hopes to net $7 billion from the sale of the country's two mobile phone companies.

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MTC-Kuwait deploys nationwide HDSPA 3G network

MTC-Kuwait has deployed a nationwide 3G mobile broadband network in the country

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Greenfield prospects

The year ahead offers operators in the region opportunities for greenfield investment, though interested parties should be weary of the scarcity premium that many of the concessions are likely to attract. CommsMEA flags up a number of the significant licence awards in the region scheduled to take place over the next 12 months.

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MTC weighs up bid for Paktel

Kuwait’s Mobile Telecommunications Group (MTC) is weighing up plans to place a bid for Pakistan cellular company Paktel, it said in a statement.

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MTC interested in Pakistan

Kuwait’s MTC Group is said to be considering bidding for Pakistan cellco Paktel, a unit of Millicom International Cellular Company, writes Tawanda Chihota.

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MTC selects Nortel for 3G services in Kuwait

Vendor to build high-speed future-proof transport network

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Kuwait's MTC Group

...

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Dial B for business

A liberalised market in most Middle East countries is bringing home the need for telecoms providers to gain a competitive edge in their internal applications. Daniel Stanton finds out whether regional telcos are all talk or whether they are using IT to connect with their customers.

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MTC Group account for Hill & Knowlton

Hill & Knowlton Middle East has been hired by global telephony operator MTC Group as part of a wide-ranging PR and communications push.

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No commitment on IPO says MTC

...

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Mobile Telecommunication Company

The Facility will be used for general corporate purposes including refinancing of the existing US $750 million signed on 18 December 2005.

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MTC prepares bid for Saudi licence

...

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Region wakes up on security

...

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MTC in the frame with Siemens

...

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Does Zain have an answer to software priacy?

Akhtar Zaidi has an ambition: to create a technology workshop that could be floated on the NASDAQ. His Zain Group's first invention, 'Trazer', could prove to be the answer to software piracy.

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The man who can save Microsoft $2 Billion

In an exclusive interview, Windows User talks to Akhtar M. Zaidi, CEO, Zain Group, a man who believes he can banish software piracy, worldwide, within 12 months.

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Quantum partners with MTC to balance channel demand

In the face of a volatile hard disk drive market, Quantum has signed up MTC in the hope of filling in any missing gaps in the region.

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Motorola expands Middle East GSM Networks

Kuwait and Jordan will both benefit from improved GSM capacity thanks to deals worth $51 million with telecoms company Motorola.

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Architect Powerlist 2010

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