Ooredoo OFN cable spin-off has been formally launched as Ooredoo Group announced the creation of Ooredoo Fibre Networks (OFN), a dedicated company to manage its international subsea cable systems and large-scale terrestrial fiber infrastructure. The move marks a clear shift in how the company structures its connectivity assets as demand for global bandwidth continues to rise.
According to Ooredoo, OFN will oversee investments in subsea cables and high-capacity fiber routes that link the Gulf with major data hubs across Asia and Europe. The new entity will also support the expansion of Qatar’s fiber infrastructure, strengthening the country’s position in regional data movement.
Leadership and Strategic Direction
Ooredoo has appointed Khalid Hassan Al-Hamadi as the CEO of Ooredoo Fibre Networks (OFN), effective 15 February 2026. Al-Hamadi previously served as Managing Director and CEO of Ooredoo Maldives, where he led the rollout of advanced network services and enhanced international connectivity links. His appointment is part of Ooredoo’s plan to build a focused leadership structure for its global network operations.
The company confirmed that OFN aligns with its long-term growth plans under the RISE strategy, which aims to scale digital infrastructure and diversify revenue streams. Ooredoo has stated that it wants its international cable and infrastructure business to grow from around 3% of group revenue to approximately 12% over the coming years.
Strengthening Regional Fiber and Subsea Networks
OFN will directly manage Ooredoo’s submarine cable portfolio, including ongoing projects such as the Fibre in Gulf (FIG) subsea system developed in partnership with Alcatel Submarine Networks. This network spans roughly 1,900 kilometers and is designed to improve resiliency and support Qatar’s fiber infrastructure with enhanced data links across Gulf countries.
Ooredoo said the dedicated structure will make it easier to develop partnerships with global telecom carriers, cloud operators, and hyperscalers seeking reliable cross-regional connectivity. The company also aims to consolidate technical operations and accelerate the development of new cable routes.
Impact on Qatar’s Telecom Landscape
The Impact of OFN on Qatar’s telecom sector is expected to be significant as the spin-off centralizes all international connectivity assets under one specialized entity. This consolidation is seen as an important step in improving efficiency and collaboration with global network partners. Analysts note that the move also supports Qatar’s broader ambition to become a key digital hub in the Gulf.
Ooredoo expects the initiative to enhance network resilience, increase capacity, and create more flexibility for future projects driven by cloud computing, AI applications, and data-intensive services. These developments further expand the role of Qatar’s fiber infrastructure, making it a foundational component of the country’s digital transformation roadmap.
Outlook for the New Entity
The corporate separation process for OFN is expected to be completed by 2027. Industry observers believe the Impact of OFN on Qatar’s telecom sector will continue to grow as the company builds out new cable routes and expands international partnerships.
Through the Ooredoo OFN cable spin-off, Ooredoo aims to position the new entity as a leading provider of global connectivity infrastructure, supporting Qatar’s evolving digital economy while strengthening its role in regional network architecture.
