After studying and analyzing the comments received to this public consultation, the CITC is pleased to announce that it will publish on  on Monday 25th Safar 1434H, 7th January 2013G,  the RFA document for Licensing of Mobile Virtual Network Operator Services on its internet website (www.citc.gov.sa). This document contains the criteria, conditions, timeframe and procedures for submitting applications for new licenses to provide Mobile Virtual Network Operator Services as well as for the evaluation criteria to be applied in selection of the successful Applicants.

A Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) obtains wholesale services from an existing mobile cellular operator for supply under their own brand to the public. This avoids the need for further spectrum or new radio access networks and promoting improved efficiencies and reduced costs.  This operator will develop its services and provide these to its customers using its own sales and marketing capability and brand, and will also offer its own billing and customer care services.  It should be noted here that the addition of up to three new MVNOs is expected to increase the range and variety of mobile telecommunications services from competing companies, encourage fairness and transparency, and will have a positive impact on the market of mobile communication services in the Kingdom.

The Commission invites all interested parties to visit the CITC website to obtain this document, for news and updates, and to submit their applications for MVNO licenses in accordance with the requirements set out in the published document. Note that the deadline to apply for an MVNO license is Saturday 24/06/1434H (04/05/2013G).