Doha: Qatar Telecom (Qtel) and KT Corporation of Korea yesterday launched a major strategic alliance that will see the two companies develop joint solutions for a new generation of "Smart Cities" in Qatar.
Under the terms of the agreement, Qtel and KT Corporation will launch a range of new products and solutions designed specifically for organisations involved in the development of smart cities, including developers, infrastructure companies, governmental and corporate entities.
In addition, the two companies will create a long-term integrated management solution, to enable developers to fully manage development operations and extend a range of value-added services for businesses and residents of the new developments.
New partnership
Khalid Abdullah Al Mansouri, Executive Director of Business Solutions at Qtel, said: "We are united in driving the development of the knowledge-based economy and building the best possible urban environments across Qatar.
"With this new partnership, Qtel is offering the highest level of solutions and services to ensure that the new generation of Smart Cities can offer people the best possible lifestyle options."
The "smart city" concept is central to the long-term development vision of many countries, placing information technology at the heart of new projects to enable a smart economy, smart mobility, a smart environment, and smart governance. Typically, these developments integrate urban construction with "software" such as medical care, security, architecture and green technology.
Korea has been one of the global pioneers in the field of Smart City development, with developments like New Songdo City deploying the latest technology to minimise energy use and environmental impact, and transform the lifestyle of residents.
Qatar has plans to be a leader in the growth of Smart Cities, with more than 10 major master projects already under development.
Dr. Kim Hansuk, Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Global Business Unit, KT Corporation said: "Smart City developments are transforming urban environments around the world, helping to reduce energy use, and transforming the range of services provided.
"Bringing together the advanced technology portfolio of KT Corporation and the in-depth industry knowledge of Qtel will provide an important contribution to the growth of Smart Cities in Qatar."
Unified control plant
One of the services being developed is a Smart City "command centre", a central platform that enables developers to monitor and manage all services across the City through a unified control point.
In addition, the two companies are exploring the potential of digital signage services, security and intelligent building provision, remote healthcare and remote learning services.
As well as bespoke solutions, the two companies will work together to review emerging technologies and assess their deployment within Smart Cities.
Qtel has a long-standing track record of supporting real estate development and management companies in Qatar.