Vodafone is all set to ensure a smooth change over to the ‘eight digit numbering scheme’ from July 28, said chief executive officer, Grahame Maher.
“Globally, we have considerable experience in change over to new numbering patterns. In the region, we have already done this in Egypt,” Maher told Gulf Times yesterday.
The Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology (ictQATAR) earlier said an eighth digit will be added to all mobile and landline numbers in Qatar on July 28.
The move, part of a recommendation by the National Numbering Committee (NCC) of ictQATAR, will create an additional 36mn mobile and 9mn landline numbers, surpassing the highest demand forecast for the next 15-20 years.
The change will happen automatically and seamlessly on July 28 at 00:00:01 (12.01am) for all customers, whether Qtel or Vodafone, with no interruption of service or effect on both networks.
Maher said in line with the ictQATAR directive, the first digit of a customer’s existing mobile number would be added to complete the ‘number change over’ process.
For example, a number 7980103 will become 77980103 on July 28.
Maher said steps have been taken to ensure that people who dialled the current seven digits received an automated recorded message guiding them to the correct number.
“This will particularly benefit those calling from abroad,” Maher pointed out.
According to ictQATAR, people who dial the current seven digit numbers will receive an automated recorded message, asking them to dial again with the new eight-digit ones, for a period of three months from July 28.
Maher said Vodafone’s call centre (111) had also been equipped to handle queries and provide customer assistance.
“Although it was a little bit of work relating to our systems and processes, we are absolutely ready to get into the eight digit numbering scheme,” Maher added.
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