Qatar Telecom (Qtel) announced that Group revenue increased by 16.5% to QR7.5bn (Q1 2010: QR6.4bn) during the first quarter ended 31 March 2011, fueled by ongoing growth across its international portfolio. The Group's consolidated customer base grew by 13.9% to stand at QR75.6m (Q1 2010: QR66.4m), while the Group's Ebitda increased 17% to QR3.6bn (Q1 2010: QR3.0bn).

Ebitda margin remained robust throughout the period at 48% (Q1 2010: 47%).

Net Profit Attributable to Qtel Shareholders increased by 15.7% when normalized for a one-off favourable decision on the royalty regime in Qatar in 2010 of QR554m related to the period of 2007-2009. Q1 2011 Net Profit Attributable to Qtel Shareholders stood at QR0.8bn (Q1 2010: QR1.2bn).

Highlights of the quarter included the acquisition of an additional shareholding in Tunisiana resulting in 100% consolidation in Group results, and a successful public listing of Wataniya Mobile Palestine.