Why is there a change to the national numbering system? Why do we need another digit in the phone numbers?
With the population estimated to double by 2015 and businesses expanding, the existing numbering system won’t meet the future demand. In addition, competition has driven growth in the demand for telephone numbers with many customers having more than one mobile handset. By expanding all existing and new telephone numbers to eight digits, Qatar will be able to meet the growing demand for more network services.

What is changing about phone numbers in Qatar?
For both fixed and mobile users, the first digit of the number will be repeated, so that numbers that currently begin with 3 will now start with 33, those starting with 7 will now be 77 and so on. The only affected numbers will be those starting with 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7. These changes will be in effect for both Vodafone and Qtel customers. (For example, if your number is currently 315 2145, it will change to 3315 2145 from July 28.)

All emergency telephone numbers within Qatar, including 999 and 112, will not be affected by the change. Numbers used for SMS, toll free and paging services, short codes, and the numbers owned by the Ministry of Interior will also remain the same. These are numbers beginning with 1, 2, 8 and 9.

When will the number change take place? Will there be any interruption of service?
On July 28, 2010 at midnight (GMT +3). The transition will happen seamlessly and automatically. No interruption of service will take place.

What happens if I dial a number incorrectly?
Customers will receive an automated message asking them to dial the correct number. This message will remain in place for three months, after which customers will be informed that they are dialling an unknown number. Customers calling from outside Qatar will also hear an automated message.

I will be out of the country when the numbers change. Is there anything I need to do? What will happen if I call someone in Qatar?
People dialling from outside Qatar will receive an automated message asking them to redial with an added digit. The international code for Qatar (+974) will not be affected. You will simply need to add the additional digit to the original number.

Where can I get more info?
Qtel customers can dial 111 and ask to speak to the Number Change special service line. Vodafone customers can dial 111 from their mobile phone and speak to a Customer Care Champion. If Vodafone customers are calling from another number and not their Vodafone mobile, they should dial 800 7111.

What should enterprise customers do and who can assist them?
Enterprise customers should contact their respective key account managers who will provide them with the necessary assistance.

How will this affect public services, such as hospitals? Will there be an automated message or will the call be automatically redirected?
Emergency numbers will not be affected by this process (112 will remain unchanged). However, government facilities and public services will change their main office lines with the exception of the Ministry of Interior.

Is there any quick way I can update phone numbers stored in my phone?
Different models of phone will have different facilities for updating your phone directory. Consult your manual for further details. Will the change affect short SMS numbers, toll free, paging services and short codes?
No, the change is only for standard fixed and mobile numbers.
Phone numbers in Qatar will change from July 28, 2010. For more information, go to www.ictqatar.qa.