Bahrain Announces Spectrum Policy

MANAMA, Bahrain -- The Ministry of Transportation (MoT) and the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) of Bahrain jointly issued today the Spectrum Policy of the Kingdom and the report on responses received with regard to the relevant document.

The Policy outlines the available spectrum in the Kingdom of Bahrain and how it will be awarded. It also identifies the available spectrum ranges, which include the uses for WiFi, WiMax and Fixed Wireless Access among others.

As regards spectrum for additional mobile licenses, the Policy confirms that there is available spectrum for both 2G and 3G. This confirmation is a prelude to the third mobile license consultation, which will discuss whether a 3rd mobile license should be issued and the available options for such license, ranging from the nature of the license to the award mechanism.

The Spectrum Policy issued today forms the basis for use of spectrum in the Kingdom of Bahrain. It identifies the different options available for awarding spectrum for each band. The award mechanisms vary between first come-first-served and auctions, depending on demand and availability.

In addition, the Policy includes a provision for dealing with new technologies that require access to spectrum. The Policy sets out the procedure to be followed in order to determine the allocation of spectrum for new technologies.

Following on from the publication of the Policy the next step will be to set out the detailed processes related to the actual award of spectrum licenses. This entails deciding and finalizing the award process for each license, along with the relevant requirements, licenses, documentation and procedures.

The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA)