Page 100 - SAMENA Trends - January-February 2025

REGULATORY & POLICY UPDATES SAMENA TRENDS

Ofcom Consults on the Future of 6GHz

Ofcom launched a consultation on the future of the upper 6GHz with 160MHz and 400MHz prioritised for Wi-Fi, with the remainder
spectrum band, potentially allowing both mobile and Wi-Fi prioritised for mobile usage. In cases where mobile deployments
networks to share the valuable airwaves. Back in 2020, 500MHz are not present, the full band would still be available for Wi-Fi
of spectrum in the lower portion of the band were allocated to usage. In addition to these changes, Ofcom is also suggesting that
Wi-Fi as part of the Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 standards. The future of the use of the lower part of the band be expanded to outdoor and
the upper portion of the band, on the other hand, remained up for high-power Wi-Fi deployments. “This new spectrum would provide
debate. With its low latency, high capacity, and relatively strong a large increase in capacity for both mobile and Wi-Fi services,
propagation, the 6,425 –7,125MHz spectrum band is appealing to laying the foundations for future generations of data-hungry
both mobile and Wi-Fi operators. For the mobile players, this band technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality, and AI,” said
could substantially bolster the quality of their 5G offering, while Ofcom in its announcement. “In a boost for the economy, it would
for Wi-Fi it could support high-power and outdoor deployments. also help mobile and Wi-Fi providers to deliver improved services
As a result, both parties have been deeply involved in regulatory to more customers, especially where demand is greatest. It would
discussions with Ofcom, alongside the band’s existing users – support advanced Wi-Fi for homes, businesses and industry, and
mostly satellite services and radio astronomy users – that are enable mobile networks to better serve their customers, particularly
also seeking assurances from the regulator. Ofcom’s proposed in the most crowded places like high streets or stadiums.” As
solution would see the band potentially split between mobile and Ofcom makes clear in its announcement, much of this regulatory
Wi-Fi. The regulator wants to make the whole of the upper 6GHz approach is based on harmonising with its European counterparts,
band available for Wi-Fi as soon as possible, ideally before the end who are similarly debating the best use of this spectrum and are
of this year. But, by 2027, it suggests the band should be shared, expected to make a decision by 2027.

Bahrain TRA Conducts 148 Inspections and Sees Improvement in Telecom

Device Compliance

In 2024, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority
(TRA) carried out 148 inspection campaigns, focusing on
telecommunications device retailers, licensed wireless device
vendors, and authorized frequency spectrum users. This proactive
approach aims to enhance compliance with Bahrain’s technical
regulations and prevent harmful interference. Throughout the
year, the TRA reviewed 11,423 import license applications for
telecommunications devices, marking a 9% increase compared
to 10,488 applications in 2023. Notably, violations related to
telecommunications device imports dropped to just four in 2024,
down from 19 the previous year, reflecting growing awareness
among businesses and individuals. The TRA’s Spectrum Directorate
conducted inspections of imported telecom devices before
and after arrival in Bahrain, in collaboration with the Customs
Affairs Department at the Ministry of Interior. This effort ensures
compliance with technical regulations, optimizes the use of the
frequency spectrum, and prevents interference, contributing to the
integrity of Bahrain’s telecom landscape. The TRA emphasized the
importance of obtaining the necessary licenses before importing
wireless devices to ensure compliance with Bahrain’s regulations
and avoid potential issues for individuals, businesses, and
government entities.

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