Qatar Telecommunications, (Qtel), a leading telecom services provider in Qatar, has launched a new, two-zone standardised rate for all international calls.

It is now easier and more economical to call overseas with Hala and Shahry, Qtel’s mobile calling plans, a statement said.

Two simple geographical zones which determine call rates will enable customers to keep track of call minutes and rates. The new rates for international calling came into effect from February 18.

For example, customers calling GCC countries from a Shahry mobile phone during the peak calling period will be charged a rate of QR1.8 ($0.49) per minute.

If they call a GCC country during the off-peak time they will enjoy a reduced rate of QR1.3 per minute. Qtel will continue to offer its peak calling rates after 7 pm all days and all day on Fridays.

Most countries other than GCC countries fall into a second zone, with international calls to these countries charged at the same rate.

A Hala customer calling the US, China or India during the peak calling period will be charged a rate of QR2.35 per minute, whereas if they call these same countries during off-peak time, they will enjoy a reduced rate of QR1.95 per minute.

Video calls will be charged at the same rates as voice calls, enabling customers to communicate with their loved ones “in person” for the same low rates.

These new prices are part of Qtel’s commitment to enhance the value provided to customers who wish to call internationally and are changes to Qtel’s permanent price points.

Promotions such as the current Shahry International Calling promotion that gives 10 free minutes of international calling for every 5 paid minutes will continue to be offered in the coming months. – TradeArabia News Service