Beirut, Lebanon - November 28, 2025: As part of the preparations coordinated with Minister of Telecommunications Charles El Hage to ensure the highest levels of readiness during the visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to Lebanon, Alfa has carried out a comprehensive plan to boost network readiness at key locations expected to witness heavy attendance throughout the visit.
In this context, Alfa has increased network capacity and expanded internet bandwidth in the areas that will host major gatherings to ensure reliable communication services to the hundreds of thousands of believers who will participate in this significant national event.
Specifically for the occasion, Alfa has activated 5G services at 9 sites, hence increasing the network’s capacity and supporting the anticipated large crowds. Over the course of a full week, technical teams conducted all necessary tests on the 5G network to ensure quality and effectiveness. For the first time in Lebanon, 5G will be available to Alfa subscribers on their 5G compatible devices in the crowds gathering areas.
Internet capacity has also been boosted at sites covering Beirut’s Seaside arena to accommodate expected data traffic, while 4G network capabilities have been reinforced through 5CC capabilities + 5G. Additionally, 2 mobile communication stations (CoWs) have been deployed around the waterfront area and Martyrs’ Square. Radio capacities for devices supporting 5G have been increased by up to 250%, and capacities for LTE/4G devices by up to 50%.
Alfa has also established 2 new sites in Annaya and Bkerki and maximized the capacity of the existing site currently serving Bkerki. Furthermore, a new 5G site has been installed at the Presidential Palace, in parallel with upgrading 4G capabilities at surrounding stations. Furthermore, Alfa added 8 new sectors to existing sites, enhanced internet capacity at 28 sites, and performed upgrades across 13 microwave links. The plan also included continuous field testing.
In addition, Alfa ensured full power supply to all stations covering key locations and areas expected to host large gatherings and cover delegation movements.
Alfa will also support journalists in their field and live coverage by strengthening network and service availability at the Phoenicia Hotel, where the visit’s media center is located.
A fully equipped technical and logistics team will remain on standby around the clock to monitor the network in real time and intervene when needed.
In parallel, Alfa is launching The Visit offer for $0.9, valid for 3 days on November 30, December 1, and December 2. It includes 3GB of data and 60 minutes of call time.
Alfa stores at the airport, Jounieh, Byblos, and Furn El-Chebbak will remain open during the visit, while the customer service team will be ready to respond to any inquiries and provide necessary support.
In parallel, Alfa has also launched a corporate campaign to welcome His Holiness the Pope, titled “Lebanon Dilexit Te” which translates to “Lebanon Loves You,” and decorated its headquarters with a large banner featuring this slogan which is inspired by Pope Leo’s first Apostolic Exhortation addressed to all Christians on love of the poor.
