Broadband licenses

Licenses are expected to be issued in 2009 with a view to establishing access to high speed core, metropolitan and access networks across Lebanon. This move will seek to address the radical improvements needed in high speed data, Internet and international services, in order to bring them in line with global benchmarks.

A draft broadband policy has been submitted to the Minister of Telecommunications in August 2008, this policy aims at establishing a true broadband infrastructure and service based competition by granting two types of licenses – National Broadband Licenses (NBL) and Broadband Access Licenses (BAL)– with a view to maximizing investment and competition.

National Broadband Licenses give the right to build any telecommunications infrastructure using any technology to establish a core, metropolitan or access network, as well as the right to build and operate an international gateway. As a result, licensees will be able to provide almost any telecommunications services that can be delivered across their networks (subject to Telecommunications Law requirements and Liban Telecom exclusivity).

Broadband Access Licenses will entitle the holders to build metropolitan and access networks connecting to customers using the technology of their choice, and to offer customers the same Access services allowed by National Broadband Licenses. A number of Broadband Access Licenses with radio spectrum bands will be made available enabling wireless access technology to be deployed.

The TRA is currently in the process of developing its broadband licensing plans in more detail and plans to issue the draft Request for Applications, the draft Licenses and the relevant decrees during the first quarter of 2009.

Potential investors are advised to consult the liberalization roadmap for more information about each type of broadband license and its obligations.