A banner featuring a portrait of Pope Leo XIV in Hazmieh, east of Beirut, on Nov. 26, 2025. (Credit: AFP)
BEIRUT — Telecom company Touch stated on Wednesday that it has taken a series of measures and actions to enhance network signal transmission and mobile data service, as well as customer service, in preparation for the historic visit of Pope Leo XIV to Lebanon between Nov. 30 and Dec. 2, as large crowds are expected in different locations during the visit.
These measures were taken in coordination with the Minister of Telecommunications Charles Hajj, according to the company.
“In regard to customer service, the company will open its service centers in its Jounieh and Jbeil branches, as well as the main service center at its headquarters in Beirut, on Dec. 1 and 2.
In addition, its service point at Beirut Airport will exceptionally open on Sunday, Nov. 30", reads the statement relayed by the state-run National News Agency,
Regarding the network, the company noted that it has deployed "four mobile MBTS stations at the location designated for the Holy Mass on Beirut’s waterfront on December 2, and a fifth station in Martyrs’ Square." Touch has also "strengthened voice and data services and increased network capacity to accommodate the expected number of attendees."
"In the same context, technical teams have worked on improving network service at all main locations of the visit: Annaya, Harissa, Bkerki, and the Presidential Palace", the statement continued. "Additionally, 5G service will be available at the Presidential Palace."
Moreover, the company has introduced a $1 package that includes one hour of calls and 3GB of internet, available for users between Nov. 28 and Dec. 2.
"In line with our responsibility, we have mobilized our capabilities to support the success of this national occasion and to help provide the highest quality of communication and data services on our network", Karim Salim Salam, Chairman and General Manager of Touch, said.
The Pope's visit to Lebanon and Turkey will be the first trip abroad for Robert Francis Prevost who is the first American to hold the position.
