Alcatel Submarine Networks Wins Ooredoo Group Contract for Major GCC Submarine Cable

Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN) has secured a major submarine cable order from the Ooredoo Group to build one of the largest international cable systems in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. The new project, known as Fibre in Gulf, will connect Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Iraq, reinforcing Ooredoo’s growing leadership in regional digital infrastructure.

Expanding Regional Connectivity

The Fibre in Gulf project aims to strengthen data capacity and enhance connectivity across the Middle East. Although the total cable length remains undisclosed, industry estimates suggest it will span nearly 2,000 kilometers. Once completed in 2027, the new network will deliver a low-latency, secure, and high-speed route that connects the GCC region to Europe through a new international data corridor.

Equipped with up to 24 fiber pairs and a total capacity of 720 Tbps, the system will significantly expand broadband capacity while supporting the region’s digital transformation goals. According to Ooredoo, the project will not only reduce latency but also improve network resilience for critical infrastructure and intercontinental communications.

Advancing Digital Infrastructure

ASN CEO Alain Biston expressed pride in the project’s strategic importance, calling it a pivotal step in the Gulf’s connectivity evolution.

“This is a game-changing initiative that will mark a turning point in regional connectivity across the GCC,” said Biston.

Meanwhile, Ooredoo Group CEO Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo emphasized that the project aligns closely with Ooredoo’s long-term strategy to address the rising data demand between Asia and Europe. By expanding its cable network, Ooredoo continues to establish itself as a hub for global digital traffic, bridging continents through next-generation infrastructure.

Supporting Future Data Growth

Ooredoo has consistently invested in AI, data centers, submarine cable systems, fintech, and Internet of Things (IoT) to drive the region’s digital transformation. Additionally, Ooredoo Oman recently signed an agreement to land the 2Africa Cable System in Barka and Salalah, expanding its role in international connectivity.

The Fibre in Gulf initiative also emerges as multiple regional telecom leaders focus on securing data routes between Africa, Europe, and Asia. Given the recent rise in geopolitical and security concerns, these projects aim to protect critical infrastructure while improving bandwidth reliability worldwide.

As a result, the Ooredoo-ASN partnership not only strengthens regional collaboration but also positions the GCC as a central hub in the future of global digital communications.