Motorola to deploy WiMAX network in Pakistan for Wi-tribe

Motorola, Inc. today announced that it has signed a multi-year WiMAX contract with wi-tribe Pakistan limited, the all-new wireless broadband Internet provider to enter the country.

Motorola will supply infrastructure and a comprehensive services package that will enable cost-effective, compelling wireless broadband services for wi-tribe's customers.

wi-tribe Pakistan Limited is a joint venture between Qatar Telecom (Qtel) and Saudi Arabia's A.A. Turki Group of Companies (ATCO). wi-tribe aims to deliver instant wireless broadband connectivity from North Africa across the Middle East and up to Asia (AMESA region).

"WiMAX is changing the way people are connecting and is opening doors to a new world of opportunities," said Mohammad Sadiq, CEO of wi-tribe Pakistan limited. "We will be offering high-speed Internet that is simple, affordable, and a portable alternative to fixed broadband. The Motorola WiMAX solution frees customers from the fixed line services."

Ali Amer, vice president sales, Middle East, Africa and Pakistan, Motorola Home & Networks Mobility, said: "WiMAX will become a driving force in Pakistan. This is why Motorola stands at the forefront of such an important industry standard that enables progressive service providers such as wi-tribe to launch high-speed, rich, yet affordable communications services."

Motorola will begin deploying wi-tribe's WiMAX network from this month in the 3.5GHz spectrum. Commercial launch is expected during 2009. Motorola will supply award-winning equipment from its WiMAX portfolio including the WAP 400 WiMAX access point, which features diversity MIMO antenna capabilities to enable strong indoor penetration.

wi-tribe is an online community to join and connect with the world. Across The Qtel Group's footprint that stretches from North Africa to the South Pacific, wi-tribe can deliver cost-effective internet access to emerging markets: becoming a driver of growth in connectivity. Plug in and Go – wi-tribe offers unrivalled simplicity of operation and a passion for customer service. Ground-breaking WiMAX technology allows instant connection to the Internet through satellite technology. International Presence – wi-tribe has its corporate office in the Kingdom of Bahrain, with Jordan becoming the first wi-tribe enabled market in 2008.

Corporate partners – wi-tribe was founded by two shareholders. The Qtel Group is one of the fastest growing telecommunications services providers with a presence in 16 markets in the Middle East, North Africa and Asia and A.A. Turki Group of Companies (ATCO) is one the leading companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. wi-tribe enjoys a comprehensive partnership with Clearwire, one of the world's leading broadband wireless operators in North America and Europe.