In 1994, the Lebanese post-war economy was undergoing significant changes. Lebanon was beginning to rebuild its infrastructure, and the Lebanese people demanded a better solution to their communication needs than the unreliable fixed lines.
In response to the government’s tender for GSM licenses, issued on May 13th, 1993, Dr. Nizar Dalloul, along with a select group of investors and Finnish partners Telecom Finland International (later Sonera), established LibanCell with the vision of bringing GSM communications to every Lebanese household.
The LibanCell team had the extensive knowledge and determination needed to fulfill the requirements of the tender. LibanCell also presented the most significant financial offer and won the license on the basis of pure merit, following a lengthy yet transparent process. The newly-formed company was one of the first two mobile service providers in the country.
During a difficult period of transition for the country, LibanCell was able to provide the infrastructure to allow all Lebanese to communicate and stay in touch.
On December 23rd 1994, the first GSM call in Lebanon was initiated by LibanCell from Hotel Alexandre in Achrafieh, Beirut.
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