Qtel today continued to extend the evolution of BlackBerry in Qatar with the launch of a Hala plan, enabling people to have prepaid Blackberry services for the first time.

As part of a special promotion to celebrate this important new launch, Qtel is offering a fantastic low activation fee of just QR100 and free rental of a BlackBerry handset for two months.

Qtel has provided BlackBerry services for more than two years for Qatar, supported by the most reliable network and some of the fastest Internet options. The launch of the Hala option for BlackBerry provides more choice and flexibility in the market, so that people can opt to use their BlackBerry whenever they need it.

In particular, Qtel’s research shows that young people who want to deploy BlackBerry solutions for social networking and chatting showed particular interest in a Hala option.

Dr. Nasser Marafih, CEO, Qtel, said: “Qtel has blazed a trail for BlackBerry services in the region building upon our advanced Internet infrastructure. We are now pleased to provide a prepaid Hala option for everyone in Qatar, to offer the widest access alongside the most reliable service.”

To use the on-demand Blackberry service, customers with existing BlackBerry handsets can simply send an SMS activation message to 92550. New customers who want to access an advanced BlackBerry model for the first time can simply drop-in to a Qtel Shop.

For the first eight weeks, customers can enjoy browsing, chatting and sending emails with BlackBerry for no rental fee, and will be charged the low rental price of QR35 a week after that. Customers can top-up their service using standard Hala scratch cards and e-vouchers, and – so long as they maintain a balance of QR100 or more – can have full access to the huge range of options provided by BlackBerry.

The high level performance, functionality and features of BlackBerry work best with Qtel’s advanced 3G HSPA network, and businesses and consumers across Qatar have embraced the potential of this high-powered lifestyle solution.

As the leading provider of BlackBerry and mobile services, Qtel has worked hard to deliver the latest models to the market, supported by a range of innovative packages that enable people to match their BlackBerry service to their daily lives. Most recently, it was among the first companies to offer the new BlackBerry Bold 9700, which provides a stylish and secure way to stay connected and enjoy a variety of entertainment options.

Customers who want to learn more about the BlackBerry can speak to dedicated experts at Qtel’s Communications Centres in Villagio and Al Wakrah.