Qatar’s First Commercial Internet Exchange Launches in Doha
▼ Summary
– Ooredoo has partnered with DE-CIX to launch Doha IX, Qatar’s first commercial Internet Exchange, which is now operational.
– Doha IX is hosted in Ooredoo’s data centre and provides a secure, neutral platform for regional and international networks to exchange traffic efficiently.
– The platform offers low-latency, high-performance connectivity and aims to reduce costs for businesses, ISPs, and content providers.
– Ooredoo and DE-CIX leaders emphasize that Doha IX will drive Qatar’s digital transformation and position it as a regional connectivity hub.
– Doha IX is expected to enhance digital performance, data security, and cross-border connectivity, supporting Qatar’s Vision 2030 and economic growth in the GCC region.
Qatar has officially launched its first commercial Internet Exchange, Doha IX, marking a pivotal moment for the nation’s digital infrastructure. This new platform, developed through a partnership between Ooredoo and global Internet Exchange leader DE-CIX, is now operational with initial networks already connected. The initiative aims to position Qatar as a central connectivity hub for the region, enhancing both domestic and international digital services.
Located within Ooredoo’s advanced data center, Doha IX offers a secure and neutral interconnection environment for a wide range of participants. These include regional and international hyperscalers, internet service providers, cloud platforms, and content delivery networks. The platform is engineered to provide low-latency, high-performance connectivity while simultaneously reducing operational costs through more efficient local traffic routing.
Thani Ali I A Al-Malki, Chief Business Officer of Ooredoo Qatar, expressed pride in the collaboration with DE-CIX. He described the launch as a milestone that transforms Qatar’s digital environment. According to Al-Malki, Doha IX provides world-class interconnection capabilities, enabling businesses, ISPs, and content providers to access global content more quickly, intelligently, and securely. He emphasized that this project is a major advancement in accelerating Qatar’s digital transformation and reinforcing its status as a regional connectivity center.
Ivo Ivanov, CEO of DE-CIX, highlighted the strategic value of the project. He noted that by bringing DE-CIX’s international expertise to Qatar, Doha IX allows businesses and networks to take advantage of superior interconnection services. Ivanov described the platform as an ideal entry point for international networks looking to access the vibrant Middle Eastern market. He added that the partnership with Ooredoo is unlocking the potential of Qatar’s digital economy by delivering improved content performance, more affordable internet access, and exceptional user experiences.
The introduction of Doha IX is projected to bring substantial improvements in digital performance, data security, and cross-border connectivity. It supports Qatar’s broader digital transformation objectives and aligns with the country’s Vision 2030 agenda. Additionally, the exchange is expected to bolster Qatar’s influence in promoting innovation and economic development throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council region.
(Source: MEA Tech Watch)