Third GSM operator in Yemen [Archives:2006/928/Local News]

SANA'A, March 8 ) Yemen Telecom Company Unitel held a press conference Tuesday, March 7 at the Taj Sheba Hotel, wherein Unitel executive manager William Taylor announced commencement of a third GSM telecommunication operator in Yemen.

Taylor explained that, following three months of negotiations and a meeting with President Saleh, Prime Minister Ba Jamal and the Minister of Telecommunications, the third license to develop telecommunication was approved. He added that Unitel and RLR Company, as well as Gulf, Saudi, Bahraini and UAE investors, own the company, which he confirmed will be operated with the most recent international GSM telecommunication technology.

Asked about Unitel's aim, Taylor said it will present the best services in the field. The company's administrative structure was determined in agreement with all shareholders, as well as its management board members.

Asked what distinguishes Unitel, Taylor said it considered all Yemeni market factors concerning pricing and staff, who will be trained in the best international standards. He noted that Unitel's capital will be $300 million.

The other two GSM companies operating in Yemen are Sabafon and Spacetel. Following the Unitel announcement, citizens are hoping there will be new and better services.

Ali Al-Tawili, who has two telephone lines from Spacetel and Sabafon, said he hopes for a better alternative that will consider citizens' income, adding that if there is competition, each party will tend to present the best and there will be no monopoly.
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