Is Skype Banned In Uae?
Skype is one of the most popular communication tools used around the world. It allows users to make voice and video calls, send messages and documents to each other, and even make international calls for free. But what about Skype in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)? Is Skype banned in the UAE? This article will provide an overview of the current status of Skype in the UAE and discuss the regulations that may be in place.
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Is Skype Banned in UAE?
Skype is a popular video and audio communication platform that is used by millions of people worldwide to stay connected with friends and family. However, with the increasing popularity of the platform, some countries have also started to ban its use. One of these countries is the United Arab Emirates (UAE). So, is Skype banned in UAE?
What is Skype?
Skype is a voice-over-IP (VOIP) service and instant messaging application developed by Microsoft. It allows users to make voice and video calls, send and receive text messages, and share files with other users. It also offers features such as group video calling, screen sharing, and file sharing. Skype has become one of the most popular communication tools around the world, with over 300 million users.
Why is Skype Banned in UAE?
Skype is banned in UAE due to its lack of compliance with the country’s regulatory framework. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) in UAE has issued a statement that the use of VOIP services, such as Skype, is prohibited in the country. This is because such services are not licensed by the TRA and do not have the necessary security measures in place to protect user data and communications.
What are the Alternatives to Skype in UAE?
Despite the ban on Skype, there are still a few alternatives that can be used in UAE. The most popular alternatives are FaceTime and WhatsApp. FaceTime is an Apple-developed video calling service that allows users to make audio and video calls with other Apple users. WhatsApp is a messaging service that allows users to chat, share photos, videos, and audio messages with other WhatsApp users. Both services are available on iOS and Android devices.
What are the Regulations Governing VOIP in UAE?
The TRA has issued regulations governing the use of VOIP in UAE. The regulations stipulate that any person or company offering VOIP services must obtain a license from the TRA. The license must also meet certain security standards and service requirements. Any VOIP service provider must also ensure that all data and communication is secured and encrypted.
What is the Penalty for Using Skype in UAE?
Using Skype in UAE is illegal and punishable by law. The penalty for using Skype in UAE can range from fines of up to AED 500,000 to imprisonment for up to a year. The TRA is also authorized to block any website or application that is found to be in violation of the country’s regulatory framework.
Are There Any Legal Alternatives to Skype in UAE?
Yes, there are legal alternatives to Skype in UAE. The TRA has approved the use of two VOIP services in UAE: Botim and C’Me. Both services are available on Android and iOS devices. They offer similar features to Skype, such as voice and video calling, text messaging, and file sharing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Skype is banned in UAE due to its lack of compliance with the country’s regulatory framework. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority in UAE has issued regulations governing the use of VOIP services, such as Skype. There are legal alternatives to Skype in UAE, such as Botim and C’Me, that can be used in the country. Using Skype in UAE is illegal and punishable by law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skype Banned in UAE?
Answer: Yes, Skype is banned in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In July 2017, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) issued a directive to all UAE telecom operators banning Skype, Whatsapp, and other Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services. The regulation was implemented in order to protect the country’s market of telecommunications services and to ensure the security and privacy of its users.
However, the ban does not apply to businesses, who are free to use VoIP services as long as they comply with the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority’s regulations. Businesses are also able to use other similar technologies like Facetime and Google Hangouts to communicate with clients and customers. Additionally, travelers to the UAE are allowed to use Skype, as long as they do not use it to make calls to people located in the UAE.
Skype is blocked! But there is a solution!
Overall, Skype is banned in the UAE due to its encryption technology and potential for use by those looking to engage in activities deemed illegal by the government. Despite this, there are still several ways to get around the ban, such as using a virtual private network (VPN) or using one of the alternative messaging services available in the UAE. While these solutions may not be as convenient, they do provide a way for those who need to stay in touch with friends and family abroad to do so.