KUWAIT CITY, March 11: The Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) signed a licensing agreement with Ooredoo Group on Monday to install the Fiber in the Gulf submarine cable, a project aimed at boosting Kuwait's position as a major hub for global data traffic.

In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), the authority explained that this project is the largest of its kind in the region. It will offer a capacity of up to 720 terabits per second through 24 pairs of optical fibers, making it one of the most advanced cables in the world. The project will significantly enhance the region's digital infrastructure.

CITRA anticipates that the cable will be ready for service by the fourth quarter of 2027. This initiative is expected to enhance network flexibility and improve the long-term reliability of communication systems in the region.

The new submarine cable will connect Kuwait with Qatar, Oman, the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. This connectivity will improve the efficiency of digital networks and expand communication between the Gulf countries and the rest of the world.

The project aligns with the region's digital transformation goals and strengthens its competitive position globally, particularly with the growing demand for high-speed internet, cloud services, and artificial intelligence.

Abdullah Al-Ajmi, Acting Chairman of CITRA’s Board of Directors, highlighted that this project marks a significant shift in Kuwait's communications landscape. He stressed that it is not just a submarine cable but a strategic move that positions Kuwait as a digital hub, offering higher internet speeds, stronger infrastructure, and greater business and technology opportunities.

Al-Ajmi also noted that this project will enhance the national infrastructure and support economic growth and technological innovation. He reaffirmed CITRA's commitment to developing Kuwait's digital infrastructure and its role in driving the international digital economy through more strategic partnerships and initiatives for sustainable development.

Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Thani, Regional CEO of Ooredoo Group in the Middle East, commented that the project supports the company’s strategy to lead in digital infrastructure by expanding networks and improving connectivity both within the Gulf and globally. He emphasized that the submarine cable is not just about boosting internet speed but is also a long-term investment in the region's future communications.

Sheikh Nasser added that the project will enhance digital infrastructure, foster innovation, and open new opportunities for investment in big data, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing. The cable will allow companies and service providers to transfer data efficiently, improving the performance of various economic sectors. Moreover, it will create new possibilities for technological cooperation and strategic partnerships with global telecommunications providers.

He concluded by noting that the project will not only enhance digital communication within Kuwait but also position it as a key player in shaping the future of technology and communications in the region.