The block on popular online calling apps, Skype and FaceTime, could be lifted soon in some way. It is being reported that Microsoft and Apple are in talks with the UAE’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) about lifting the ban on Skype and FaceTime in the UAE.
Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of the TRA told Arabic newspaper Al-Ittihad that the ties of the UAE’s TRA are ‘strong and stable’ with the tech giants and discussions aim to provide the online call services in the UAE.
Both the tech giants are expanding their investments in the UAE, added Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori. Microsoft is opening its two new data centres in the country for the first time and Apple has opened three stores in UAE - Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Abu Dhabi's Yas Mall .
Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori also noted the large number of subscribers in UAE for official online calling apps, BOTIM and C'Me.