Have your say: BlackBerry services in UAE to be suspended

Added 16:52 August 4, 2010

This is a joke!! First people are lured into buying one and then it's banned. Not to mention there are people out there who rely on BBs for their work - forget about the messenger service and the social networking. I am using one for last three years and believe that the quality of my life has been improved significantly! I work in shipping and I have to be able to receive and send emails on a 24 hrs basis without being glued on a computer monitor.

Alex, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:22 August 3, 2010

Well a Rule is a Rule at end of the day. TRA go for it!

Anonymous, Rio, Brazil

Added 18:46 August 2, 2010

While the whole world is taking a big leap ahead, why is the UAE going one step behind? There is always a slight deviation from the actual concept – yes, youngsters use the phone for chatting and on social sites but what about business, how do you get connected to the world while on the go? Internet and GPRS is extremely important in this part of the world. So, if options like BlackBerry are stopped then what more are we left with? Emails and handwritten letters? In short this is very disappointing.

Prasanna AR, Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Added 16:56 August 2, 2010

The life doesnot end if we dont use BB, but it may surely end if there is security problem in using it.We must learn to respect the rules where we live. But i am amused that on 1st Aug at 1100 Hrs, i recd email from du abt suspending the services from 11th Oct and at 1130Hrs, i received a call from du asking me if I will be interested in business BB with very good offer!!!!

Anonymous, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:47 August 2, 2010

Its a right decession by the TRA, which shows actually there is some serious regularity board present in the country, though it have a huge cost impact on Etisalat & Du. But the aftermath to these restrictions, message is clear & right, 'Security comes first'. So now these gaget inventors should develop technologies without compromising security of a nation & then think about thier profit & marketing projections. Better late than never. All the best BB - Super technology but needs fine tunning.

Bijoy.K, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:56 August 2, 2010

BB won't be fun anymore if they will remove this service.. I hope they can think of alternative way... what's the sense of BB if you won't be able to use most of it's features?? what's the diff with other phones right??? we chose BB because it has features which are not with other phones... I think they're just losing "sales" figures because of the BB features :) sorry but i guess that's the real score for this... money!!!

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:41 August 2, 2010

While TRA's security concerns are understandable, making a strong statement to the effect that BlackBerry services will be suspended effective 11 October does not augur well, especially for business users While alternative "products" and "solutions" may be proposed by both telecom carriers, what about the IT infrastructure that surrounds corporate emails ? It is not practically feasible for the corporate community to come up with alternatives in such a short period When a dialogue is ongoing between the 2 telecom carriers and RIM, a decision for suspension of services, especially a fixed date like October 11, looks totally out of place

Shyam Prasad, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:36 August 2, 2010

Etisalat and Du to create 'alternate' products over Blackberry !! Technology and Service providers around the world have been trying for years to come up with another technology to match blackberry.. but not there yet... Etisalat and Du are goin to create one in 3 months.. I like the confidence tho.. !

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:23 August 2, 2010

BlackBerry is the service with which we can do business faster, then it may be our email replies or communicating with customers, its much more easy, we do not need to call up for everything, bbm is taking off 50 to 60% load in our daily stress. If its suspended means we are the one odds from the whole world. PLEASE TRY AND AVOID THIS

chetan mehta, dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:03 August 2, 2010

They should have known before they introduce the device! What will happen to our blackberries, will they replace it?

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:48 August 2, 2010

I am happy for the fact that the black berry services is going to be avoided. As people are taking dis-advantage on it. 1) People mis-use it while driving as well. They chat using msn messenger and its very dangerous to the driver and the other DRIVERS AS WELL.

Anonymous, Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Added 10:27 August 2, 2010

I dont have Blackberry & infact i was about to buy it on this weekend. I just have ONE question from TRA and with the concerned authorities. Why the authorities are waiting till 11th October?? When it comes to national security, NO compromise, it has to be stopped IMMEDIATELY. but i feel its just to create hype. For BB users- plz dont panic & dont just sell ur device for cheap price as i read in GN. Better keep it & gift it to some1 in ur homecountry. Keep ur finger crossed. CHEERS.

Zubair, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 09:12 August 2, 2010

Security is such a major concern now a days all over the world and it is the responsibility of the state to provide it to us. I dont know why it is so difficult for RIM to understand that. They should cooperate with the institutions commited towards providing us the security we need to do our business and live our lives. I had used BB some years back but later I moved to IPhone for business emails and it works the same way and even better, Local providers just need to look for ulternatives to BB for providing Business Communication, Their are many alternatives to BB available today.

Ather, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Added 18:44 August 1, 2010

There are hundred of applications available that can be used to bypass TRA regulations and open any webpage. Instead of restricting access they should open it and let people to their own judgement. Not to mention that they lured customers into buying BBs for more than 2 years now and finally woke up from their amnesia.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 18:44 August 1, 2010

Although I have a BB for business purposes only, I can see the damage to the community with such facilities on the same device. BB services had been widely abused for spreading rumors and gossips. You can be contacted by any one, any where in the world by typing an anonymous pin. Look at people in coffee shops and restaurants, many are nodding heads down and chatting, playing, browsing and might be working. But majority are using BB for fun. I believe that BB services were abused by us and should stop before it takes us back to the APE shape again. Business can be conducted through other technologies, less harmfull.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 18:28 August 1, 2010

I hope this issue between the UAE and Blackberry is resolved and the UAE has the right to store data. Otherwise our phones are defunct, and all our families that we encouraged to purchase one as well will be out of pocket, thus we will become the laughing stock of the world.

Umm Ahmad , Ras Al Khaimah , United Arab Emirates

Added 18:24 August 1, 2010

The blocking of Skype because it is highly encrypted and can not be monitored by the government is one thing. People can make the justification in their head that the TRA is protecting the profits of the telcoms and their inflated phone rates, likely they have no idea about the reality of the situation anyway. But, essentially coming straight out and admitting that they monitor all communications passing through the country and blocking Blackberry because they cannot monitor the communications over the network seems like a massive failure on numerous levels. I would put money on the fact that this is going to cause an overwhelming backlash. I wish the UAE the best of luck with their newly opened Pandora's box.

Anonymous, Toronto, Canada

Added 18:16 August 1, 2010

This is so infuriating! Why did they even start the Blackberry service if they had not resolved all issues! This is outrageous. And not everyone buys into the security reason babble. They say they will provide services to substitute Blackberry's Ultra cost effective Blackberry messenger. I'm going to wait for these substitute services. What about the money I spent just last month to purchase the Blackberry. This is unreasonable.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 18:12 August 1, 2010

Gulf news reported: 1 August 2010 Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA) confirmed the suspension of BlackBerry messenger, BlackBerry E-mail and BlackBerry web browsing services in the UAE from October 11 27 July 2010 The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) says it has no plans to stop messaging services for BlackBerry smartphones in the UAE. TRA executive director of Technology Development Affairs Mohammad Geyath said: "We are studying all options to regulate the services... but we don't have plans to stop them". Again: "We are studying all options to regulate the services... but we don't have plans to stop them". on 27 July 2010 I am just surprise with the short period of time that TRA had to change their decision, the BlackBerry services changed the way how users are communicating everyday, it was a new era for telecommunication industries, but with decision we will be one step behind comparing to the world, and it will make BlackBerry just like any another normal mobile phone in UAE.

Raed, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 18:09 August 1, 2010

I have 2 BBs for Du and Etisalat but I do not have any regret knowing this issue. I believe that the TRA protects the safety and interest of the customers. We can continue life without BB. We are in the world of high-technology. We have a strong government to protect us. Du and Etisalat will provide an altenative way/s of compensating the customers as they promised. So why bother?

Thek, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Added 18:04 August 1, 2010

I would like to appreciate this step as I don't know abt other countries but in UAE you will see mostly teenagers using Blackberry to communicate and indulge in wrong activities... go to any mall and u will see dozens of teenagers doing the same.... the other class who uses blackberry is the so-called corporate or business ppl who harass/give tension to their employers using Blackberry to communicate 24/7 with them hence no family time no leisure time no vacations for them. So in this context Ii think its a good step.. however for ppl who just bought there BB recently Ii feel bad.. the TRA shud have taken this step earlier so that this wud have not come up like this....

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 18:04 August 1, 2010

I would like to appreciate this step as I don't know about other countries but in UAE you will see mostly teenagers using Blackberry to communicate and indulge in wrong activities...go to any mall and you will see dozens of teenagers doing the same....the other class who uses Blackberry is the so-called corporate or business people who harass/give tension to their employers using Blackberry to communicate 24/7 with them hence no family time no leisure time no vacations for them.....so in this context I think its a good step..however for people who have just bought their BB recently I feel bad.....the TRA should have taken this step earlier so that this would have not come up like this....

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:59 August 1, 2010

I am very disappointed to hear this. I travel frequently to the Middle East for work and prefer to base myself in the UAE. However, if I cannot get my e-mail, messaging, and data, I will begin to use Qatar instead.

Anonymous, Detroit, United States

Added 17:57 August 1, 2010

I think with this, we would go 10 years backward! this is bad for business-men who manage their finances and companies thru their BBs. I wish they apply control with controlling that only serious executives and working managers have BBs.... at least this is a worst case scenario.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:56 August 1, 2010

I honestly find that to be very dissapointing. I mean everyone with a Blackberry enjoys being interconnected with their friends at all times. BB doesn't only help you socialise with ease, but strengthens your friendships with almost everyone you know. It's just really sad to hear that, I just bought my BB 2 weeks ago and if Etisalat/Du doesn't provide us with a satisfying alternative then I along with many of my friends have wasted our savings for nothing. I mean we don't all have jobs you know!

Anonymous, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:55 August 1, 2010

I honestly find that to be very disappointing. I mean everyone with a Blackberry enjoys being interconnected with their friends at all times. BB doesn't only help you socialise with ease, but strengthens your friendships with almost everyone you know. It's just really sad to hear that, I just bought my BB 2 weeks ago and if Etisalat/Du doesn't provide us with a satisfying alternative then I along with many of my friends have wasted our savings for nothing.

Anonymous, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:47 August 1, 2010

Actually to be very honest, the Blackberry service is being misused by the people in most of the countries especially by the young generation! The purpose of Blackberry is for business not that any individual of any age should carry a Blackberry handset and play with it most of the time. It really spoils the young generation and they cannot concentrate on their studies. I see sometime people busy with their handsets while driving which is very very dangerous, they not only put their lives at risk but other people's lives at risk on the road. It should have been limited to the business community ONLY from the day one!

Naseer Ahmad, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:35 August 1, 2010

Yet another TRA debacle. This is very damaging to the UAE's presumed hi-tech, free-market and 'liberal' image; what a joke. Not only do we as UAE residents have to put up with Voip being outlawed due to pure greed on behalf of the Du-Etisalat duopoly, now we also see our most beloved BB services being amputated in the name of ... 'security'?? Soon we'll be on par with North-Korea in terms of access to media. NOT the way to go.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:27 August 1, 2010

Well It seems TRA has problem with the BlackBerry Messenger, because once you get the services, every thing is free (although we have to pay to etisalat). My idea is that TRA does not like these free unlimited messages.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:27 August 1, 2010

Whist the UAE prides itself on being a business hub of the world, it wants to ban what has become one of the most important pieces of business technology! It really is farcical. The vast majority of business users will suffer and it will mean a drop in productivity and maybe have adverse affects on social lives. In my work I need to be actively contactable by email and I am not prepared to sit at my computer at weekends and in evenings to respond to email which I would normally do on the move. The web browsing is very useful when out and about and the messenger is exceptional and allows keeping in touch with friends and family at very little cost. My main question would be why not ban all handsets which browse the internet, send and receive emails etc. It makes no sense to only ban Blackberry. These people really need to take a look at reality.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:18 August 1, 2010

What will happen to Facebook, Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo mail and all of the other mail servers who keep the data on their servers and provide a secure communication in between? They should also pose the same threat as Blackberry does. Let's ban them too.. Or let's ban all of the electronics equipment for once and get a good relax afterwards..

Murat Selim, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:08 August 1, 2010

Blackberry offer.. du 6 months ,, etisalat 3 months ,,,,, ha ha ha ha .. cmon guys how much you spent for your Blackberry mobile ,,, Hope you can give it to your kids to play with it...

Johash Shaffi, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:05 August 1, 2010

This is really a shame...!!! so much for expecting business houses to come and invest in this country... It is great for business as decisions are made faster especially in times like this... To me it seems that Etisalat and Du have seen their revenues fall as BBM is free and by banning this they wish that the SMS income would increase....!!!!

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:05 August 1, 2010

I think this will not benefit most expats... if your family and friends are here then I dont mind having no cellphones at all.. Well it's good for locals because they don't need to call and be charged much to call their families.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 17:01 August 1, 2010

Most of other mobiles give the same level of securirty risk if its internet related, Blackberry is not supporting illegal softwares for phone calls and other networks, other mobile phones are easy to acces any type of softwares and people are misusing it, and many has mobile internet ..people are using voip services and other suspended sites..then we have suspend every thing even normal mobile phones and stay away from the growing world..

Johash, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 16:57 August 1, 2010

We must totally agree and support the UAE government. I will give you a simple explanation for the issue: If you give your home keys to someone you don’t know, in this case you have 4 possibilities could happen: 1. He will be responsible and protect your home. 2. He will enter to your home and steal everything. 3. He might loose the key and someone else will use it to access your home. 4. He could also invite more people to enter your home Same story for blackberry: The blackberry Data Centers are located in such places which we don’t know who has access on, simply they have full access about government, corporate and individuals information. UAE is always leading the best life style, stable job, and the most important thing is the secure life. So let’s give them all the support.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 16:24 August 1, 2010

Although I agree that blocking out a government is both risky and invites terror to a country, I disagree that it should be blocked this way and for reasons such as rumor spreading and news posting... People will talk this way or another and blocking a required service is not justified. In my humble opinion I think that TRA and RIM should have a process in place where wither RIM hosts a local server which is perfectly doable or to set up a process where legal government agencies can gain access to the data ( wherever it is stored ) after obtaining the obtaining the legally required orders like court order or order for surveillance. But keeping data and allowing it to be accessed at any time is not acceptable. People use blackberry for its security and guarantee of privacy between friends, family and business partners .. "those who trade safety for freedom .. deserve neither" Benjamin Franklin .. Hope this issue gets sorted out soon

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 16:12 August 1, 2010

Blackberry is not a mobile, but a lifestyle for many. Most of them get it as a mandatory requirement for their official work. It works well and allows you to reach anybody anytime and resolves issues in no time. Great tool for business. On the other extreme, another view is that most of us get addicted to Blackberry – No leisure time, no family time, no vacation and you are on duty 24/7. This tool has done wonders for business communications. Now what is wrong with this tool that prompted TRA to ban the service? Security issues? If so, as a civilian, we would all like to be protected from any security threat. Good job! However, the question is, is it just a security threat? BBM (voice & Text) is free and very user friendly and significantly impacts the Call/SMS income for SPs. Trapster (a service that warns users of radars) eats up RTA’s income and perhaps there are many other income leakages for SPs/Authorities that we are not aware of. We sincerely wish that TRA and RIM will resolve this issue and ensure that an uninterrupted BB service is available for UAE residents.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 16:10 August 1, 2010

From the post of "BlackBerry around the world" I can clearly state that the only countries who are having concerns are the Middle East countries.. Besides the only country who took action is Bahrain.. The rest only have temporary suspension. Lets wait and see if there will be more countries to follow...

Anonymous, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

Added 16:08 August 1, 2010

It's bad news......Blackberry is famous only for its messenger and email facilities if that is not there, many won't buy that product anymore...

Liya, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:54 August 1, 2010

HAHAHAHAHA UAE all those who ran to fall into the trap of Etisalat and DU offers, this shows that greed is universal, these providers already knew this would happen and that's the reason they came up with these so-called offers...and you people fell for it... Next time just fold your money and put it back into your pocket and don't let the world make a fool of you, eating your money thru groceries is a better way to spend.

sharpy, Ajman, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:42 August 1, 2010

I've GOT IT!. I feel the Pigeon abductions from a few months ago in Abu Dhabi is related to this. The TRA wants to replace all Blackberry hand sets with Pigeons to deliver and retrieve our messages!

Maheesha, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:40 August 1, 2010

I just bought my Blackberry this year and so far I'm loving it with the cheapest service I can talk to my friends at home and my relatives too. Suspending this service is not a good idea and I think it's all about money. Maybe after a few weeks of suspension they will put the services back but with a higher cost, everything in this country goes up except for our salaries.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:32 August 1, 2010

Please do not cancel this useful service, my full office work is in on Blackberry when I'm out of the station. They can cancel the BB messenger but not All BB services. Because If its internet you get internet in cafe and offices else it's just a normal phone with high speed internet access and where one can carry it in hand everywhere. Addtion to that we have spend lots of money on BB it costs Dh2000-3000 for a BB. It's a huge loss! Kindly and please please do not suspend this valuable service.

Anonymous, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:26 August 1, 2010

I'm so glad the TRA is making in-roads into blocking the Blackberry services. However, should it really be singling out Blackberry services? I sincerely hope the TRA will be bold enough to go beyond banning the Blackberry services - I'm hoping they'll extend the ban to the entire range of mobile services...yes, SMS, email, web-browsing and voicecalls - in fact, why stop there, just go for a complete ban on all mobile devices!! Just think of the numerous benefits this would bring to society as a whole: Family life would be so much better as we'd have more time to relax in evenings and weekends, no random contact from work for issues and problems. People would be encouraged to socialise and interact with one another instead of being glued to their mobile device and excluding themselves from the present! How many times do you observe a group of people together, yet not one of them is talking to each other; instead they're engrossed in their texting or IM's No more phone-calls from companies trying to sell us something we rarely need or possibly want and at times when we're least likely to want the interruption. For me, the cinema experience could be enjoyed to the full, without the minority of thoughtless cinema-goers who insist on taking/making calls or texts during the performance. No spam advertising texts, or IM's setting phones off in the dead of the night when we're trying to sleep. Road safety would benefit - people wouldn't have the distraction of trying talk or text whilst they're driving. It would be one less "thing" to carry around with me when I spending quality time socialing with my friends & family. Our beloved environment would benefit too: Firstly, from the reduction in the power consumption by not having to charge this plethora of devices. Secondly, the massive amount of electronic waste would be reduced; waste that is constantly produced due to the fickle nature of consumers as they discard perfectly good devices in favour of newer & supposed "cooler" gadgets! And, if we want to keep in touch with our beloved friends & families, who are so often very distant to us, we can use a pen & paper to write letters and draw pictures. Maybe we'd learn to express ourselves more interestingly and doing so in more than the 100 or so characters of tweets & texts. On top of that, our words would eventually go back to being spelt correctly instead of the garbled, mashed-up hybrid of letters & numbers that seem to have permeated their way into our "modern day" language. I hope the TRA find the boldness and make that step in doing the needful.

Mr Luddite, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:25 August 1, 2010

keeping away all the issues like people in UAE using the BB service for quite sometime, loads of BB handset offers. I think the decision from TRA is not only in the interest of UAE but of the individuals who use the BB services. No one would personally be comfortable of the fact that whatever is stored in his or her BB is being shared or accessible to a third party. I'm sure TRA would have been continously in negotiation with the BB providers RIM abroad in order to come up with a solution to this some what 'invasion of privacy' is what I would relate to.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:07 August 1, 2010

The Blackberry business model, mainly attracts corporate customers, due to its security offering and trusted services. Over the past few months Blackberry has been a major boom, due to its Blackberry messaging services especially amongst youth. I believe that an amicable solution should be reached before the deadline, as this may affect many corporate companies operating in the country.

Fayaz Alaudin Fatoo, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:01 August 1, 2010

To be quite frank, the vast majority of the city are Blackberry users. I realise that the UAE may think that the inability to monitor what we discuss with each other on BBM is a security threat.... but is it really? They already monitor our e-mail, have access to our SMS history, block ridiculous websites on the internet (flickr.com a photo website intended for photographers to share photographs etc...). In my opinion, the extent that they wish to control what the people within the UAE does is far too extreme. My entire family switched to Blackberry a month ago, and frankly, had this argument between the UAE and RIM, been such a concern, they should not have even STARTED selling Blackberrys in the first place. But once again, it is a money venture. Get it together UAE. None of the other countries think that it's such a big security risk. And finally, I'm pretty sure the rest of the world is laughing at the UAE right now for being so ridiculous. And as for alternative services? Like what? Blackberry is the only mobile manufacturer who offer their clients a mobile-to-mobile communication service... for FREE. With the current economic state, I thought Blackberrys would be a good investment. Clearly not in the UAE.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:01 August 1, 2010

Wow TRA you did a great job in keeping UAE in the Stone Age by your restrictions. Have people forgotten about the update that Etisalat issued that drained batteries. This was actually a spyware to monitor activities. It is more of a surveillance issue rather than a national security, social and cultural issue. TRA will definitely damage the country's economical development.

Anonymous, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Added 15:00 August 1, 2010

I feel this is truly unfair if it really happens. A lot of people out there depend on Blackberry services for both personal and professional reasons. These services have been promoted extensively in UAE for a long time now and a lot of us have bought Blackberry handsets only for this reason. Stopping it now is just not acceptable.

Avi, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:53 August 1, 2010

I received a message from Etisalat stating that BB services will be suspended from October 11 and replaced with alternate services. Will the alternate services have : 1)BB messenger or somethign similar 2)Data packages at the same rate as the present Blackberry unlimited package 3) Will Etisalat provide a new handset to all the Blackberry users? If etisalat will not provide Blackberry phones to all users, are they askign us to buy a new handset worth Dh1700 or Dh2000 and dump the old ones? I wish Blackberry would continue here but if it doesn't then Etisalat would have to provide the customers with the same facilities, same rates and give everyone a new handset. What about people who purchased their handsets yesterday. Are we asking them to dump the handsets? The Blackberry phones and packages set up a new trend in UAE because the normal data packages are costly. If Etisalat doesn't come up with similar packages, it will only help them reduce the number of customers who opt for data packages.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:51 August 1, 2010

This is ridiculous. If this was the case then why was Eitsalat/Du tying up with Blackberry and selling out huge volumes of Blackberry for Dh899 including promotional offers like cameras and bluetooth handsfree along with the phone for luring people. Hundreds and thousands of people had gone for such offers and suddenly the authorities decide such an act. This is totally wrong. It looks like it was all planned and Etisalat/Du wanted to get rid off as many sets possible before the statement would come up. What a pity!

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:48 August 1, 2010

Blackberry suspende! very happy, no more emails, no more communication on the social networking site, no more direct message from my boss on the messenger. More time to sleep, more time to be on the traffic on the way to office!Thank You TRA!

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:47 August 1, 2010

I think this decison is taking the country to a backstage...BB is used worldwide... Why it's only suspended in UAE... This is the first thing which comes in the mind... I hope the suspension is for a while only...

Anonymous, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:45 August 1, 2010

1. This announcement shouldn't have been made, it is one of the most un-thought of decisions on a governmental stand-point as well as business-wise; the mobile providers have done a huge mistake announcing it rather than finding a solution for it, especially in the light of the latest discussions on promotional offers on these phones.. They have lost major points in the public eye. But most importantly, there might be a solution to this problem! You go to Oman or any neighboring country, or better yet to your home country, and you purchase the package for Blackberry there. Here in the UAE you use a regular phone for calls using Etisalat or Du services and use your Bbry service only for emails or BBM (since it is provided by a foreign provider).

Ally, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:44 August 1, 2010

This is not correct decision. Need to evaluate advantage and disanvatage of the matter. I think BB service is giving more advantage. Mostly affected are businesspersons who are the backbone of the economy. BB is giving invaluable service of connectivity to anywhere in the world. If they can find out better alternative it's fine. If not this is unfair decision.

Anonymous, Deira, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:40 August 1, 2010

They basically can't monitor what people are using BB for. and since RIM didn't provide them the ability to on BB users in UAE they suspended those services. Everyone knows about the BB update by etisalat which was actually a spyware and had a flaw which drained the battery, that resulted in failure and media exposure, and now this happened. Though we can't complain if it's really for the sake of our safety, but they are killing a successful business, and this is bad reputation for UAE as a business hub.

Anonymous, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:38 August 1, 2010

what is this?..they advertised too much for blackberry in order for us to avail it, and it's true, WE CAN SAVE MONEY by communicating easily to our family across the world, and now it's like easy for them to say "the subscriber u r calling will no longer be reach soon"...they should predict ahead the negative effect of this..if there's alternative will be provided, then we have no choice but to adjust, but removing the services? ouch! few week before the voice / video call for YM, now BBM what else will be the next? have mercy on users, this is the only way we can save =)

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:37 August 1, 2010

I am a bit dissappointed for not being able to use the service after its suspension. However, I think the authorities had no other choice. Security concerns of the country should be given the top priority especially when you are in the current world of extreme frictions. I hope the TRA will probably resolve the issues with RIM and continue since RIM will also put up some efforts to continue their remunerative business, otherwise invent an alternative service in due course.

VP, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:35 August 1, 2010

Stopping one of the World Wide service is not the right solution. If BB has sequential issues of containing the information and uploading, then there should be a way to monitor it as well. Just saying as it is a independent organisation and the service is out of legislative controls of TRA, is not adequate enough to ban a service. Why don't they sit together and find a solution. BB launched in 2006, why a surprise move in 2010. The subject is definitely not handled in professional manner.

Anonymous, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:33 August 1, 2010

When I first heard this on the radio this morning, I couldn't believe it. I thought I heard it incorrectly. I had to re-read the article several times. For those of us who use blackberry every day, it is an integral part of business. This will vastly effect the way many of us do business. It will slow down communication like nothing else. Think of this: A CEO who travels 2-3 days per week and is in meetings constantly will now have to physically go to a computer to check his email. A decision about budgeting or any other urgent matter will be slowed to a grind. Yes, you can send an SMS. But how about if there is 15 people that need to be CC'd on the email? I am in shock about this decision. I think that they absolutely need to revisit this before it is implemented. The same argument about foreign companies "loading" data can made about all email (Gmail, Hotmail, etc.). I trust that with consideration, this decision will be reversed. This will absolutely slow productivity tremendously in the UAE.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:28 August 1, 2010

Security issue is a crucial thing but the entire world uses Blackberry. Isn't it obvious that everyone uses BB messenger because it is free rather than making a phone call which looks like profit isn't there anymore...just a thought.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:27 August 1, 2010

Blackberry is a good device but some people used it in a wrong way that's why we see such a suprise decision this morning, however whatever is done by the TRA they're trying to protect our privacy we may never know what went wrong but still being safe is much better than being preached by unknown user.

Anonymous, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:25 August 1, 2010

At the beginning I was not happy with the TRA announcement, specially that I paid AED 2,400 for the BB handset and I already pay AED 158 a month to enjoy the service. Looking at the company I work at and the ammount of dependency it has on BB was also a concern to me. However this all changed once I realized that some countries already have the encryption codes to the BB service, given to them by RIM. In this case, why this cannot apply to UAE and other countries? I hope to see a resolution to this issue. I am sure that BB comply to TRA given that UAE is one of the most lucrative markets in MENA for their business.

Anonymous, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:16 August 1, 2010

Stop Censorship!

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:16 August 1, 2010

This is a terrible move...I had purchased the BB because of the socialising factor. And now they intend to block it. I have the BB set from etisalat..i would like to get refunded if I cannot avail the services over here in UAE.

Saima, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:14 August 1, 2010

Nothing is more important than HomeLand Security Keep it up UAE!

Mohammad Sarfaraz, Dubai, India

Added 14:13 August 1, 2010

what can I say? Just bought one during the promotion old bold BlackBerry after they strongly promoted and now.. no services. I want my money back.

Isma, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 14:02 August 1, 2010

TRA was always promoting Blackberry and Iphone services equally. If they know its a national security thread, so why promoting it at Gitex and Gitex Consumer all the years? Why offering government services at Blackberry platform? I have several questions to ask the TRA. I would really appriciate if the TRA is to open up a plattform to discuss the matters that they fear from using push services from the UAE telcos. Solution could be: not allow data roaming from roaming partners (what will be an touristic issue), only allow push and pull emails from UAE based servers (than TRA can have a look in all mails), block Blackberry messenger. Businesses in UAE need Blackberry email services.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:58 August 1, 2010

I agree to a point, as long as other alternatives will be provided; whats the big deal, any country has the right to influence its laws on its territory

Anonymous, Umm Al Quwain, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:52 August 1, 2010

I highly disagree with the decision and wish there was a way to stop it!! If they were going to suspend the services once the people in the U.A.E had gotten accustomed to it, they should not have activated the services to start. It is being used by millions worldwide so why suspend the services here.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:49 August 1, 2010

I really do not understand those who thing that this is a good move!!! Whether BBM affected ceratin people's lives and their social behaviour is not the question here! We should have our own say and choice. This is infact a terrible move! I hope that the decision is revoked before its even implemented. We have built our lives now on BB for business and personal life and so everyone will be affected big time!

Anonymous, dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:47 August 1, 2010

What more can we say? First they come up with a commercial of 999 for Blackberry Bold phones and then they block the browsing services. Now what should I do with this when the data services are not available? Why shd we pay for the data services? Etisalat and DU should strongly consider returning the money back to those who does not want a watered down version of BB.

Anil, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:47 August 1, 2010

I totally agree with TRA. It is a security thread since the BB servers are outside the UAE. But it is too late to implement this now, they should analysis everything prior to start or implementing the services. TRA should come up with the solution immediately before it affect the business. It is high time that the government should review the Facebook aswell.

Aslam Sultan, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:37 August 1, 2010

Instead of stopping the service, ISP's have to find a security solution to control the users as well as punish whoever override the rules. I never say the decision is right. Hope there will be a accurate solution will come soon from the ISP itself, even after some time.

Roby Kurian, Dubai, Afghanistan

Added 13:31 August 1, 2010

I feel that Blackberry has become a part of me... I can chat to family and friends wherever in the world. Checking urgent e-mails at any given location is very convenient if you are on the move. It's not as though Etisalat/Du is losing revenue on their sms' and calls because not everyone has a Blackberry therefore we all do sms and call. DON'T DO IT!

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:24 August 1, 2010

This is just not making any sense and badly impact the UAE and Dubai in particular as a business friendly environment. I wish they would reconsider this decision.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 13:20 August 1, 2010

I do not agree even one bit with TRA. Blackberry is used by executives and businessmen for their smooth operation of business. Emails, Messenger etc are a part of that. This is just an unfair move by TRA.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:49 August 1, 2010

Totally disagree... Blackberry has been part or our daily life, to connect family and friends, back home, UAE and around the world. Not to mention my wife travel a lot and the only thing that keep us close is blackberry. WHY?!! Why they have to stop it?!

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:38 August 1, 2010

I am not surprised that this is TRA way of dealing with things. Whats the point of having a BB if you cant use the device for the main reason it was created. RIM clearly stipulated that if they were served by a legal order they will gladly help law enforcement with their investigations if the device was involved in a crime misused. I don't see how it would harm the country in anyway. What about Etisalat's blackberry Bold 9700 offer for AED999. I must say it was a great way to clear stock. Great job guys!!!

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:37 August 1, 2010

both me n my husband got a new BB9700 from etisalat just a week back and got the delivery from etisalat only this thursday, not even used it for a week and got the msg, i feel cheated rite now. we got these phones in offer by etisalat, if etisalat had some inclination about suspension of services why did they put out an offer to sell BB's.was it just stock clearance for them?

Anonymous, sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:31 August 1, 2010

I spend most of my time either out of the office or out of the country. BB has been the best solution to all my business and personal communication needs. Our clients respect our prompt response to their inquiries – thanks to the BBs in our pockets wherever we are. So where are we now... going backwards?

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:28 August 1, 2010

I agree with TRA's decisions. Though it is one of the best tools used by businesses today, a scenario where RIM (makers of the BlackBerry) is allowed to operate outside the parameters of local laws is unacceptable. The move might appear disastrous, prima facie. But , if the US authorities have managed to secure the encryption details that RIM so closely guards, why would RIM deny the same to any other country in the world? Today UAE is blocking Blackberry services, and by the looks of it, India will soon do it as well. How long will RIM be ready to wait till they accede to such requests made by countries in their national interests? What should be very clear is that NO BODY is above the law. If RIM wants to operate, let them live by the laws of UAE.

Abhinand, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:27 August 1, 2010

I have been using blackberry for couple of years and I must say it is very convinient and helpful. I can check my mails while I am travelling etc. rather then looking for a solution. Suspending the services is certainly not a right thing to do. the world's technology especially in Telecommunication is growing rapidly day by day. It's bad to hear such a thing in a country where the Technology is touching skies. Hope they look for an immediate solution and come up with a more sensible Announcement.

Bilal, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:15 August 1, 2010

I cannot think of a worse way to manage this. BB is a staple in both commercial and private communication. TRA needs to re-think there thinking and work with RIM to establish a solution rather than just shutting it down. Im not surprised however.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:13 August 1, 2010

I have been using Blackberry for almost a year now. It's the only company that actually "connects people". My life has changed dramatically business wise because of the ease of sending and receiving work related e-mails, being in contact with others at all times when abroad etc. Etisalat has recently launched their "promotion" of receiving a free Bold 9700 for only AED 999 upon signing a 1 year contract for this service. Was it only done to get rid of their current stock ? So what will the outcome be ? Will consumers be reimbursed for their "investment"? Will more consumers go to an alternative service provider, maybe even outside the UAE ? I know i definitely will.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:09 August 1, 2010

Technology is touching sky everywhere but we here in UAE are going in opposite direction by doing such things. BB will be like any other phone without these services. In todays tech savvy world it can be easily tracked if whoever is misusing this. I think TRA needs to again give a thought on it.

Ashwin, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:02 August 1, 2010

I have been a BB user for many years - used it mostly for business communication - It is one of the most secure ways of transmitting business information as your company needs an Enterprise Server to allow access to company mail servers.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:02 August 1, 2010

I have been a BB user for many years - used it mostly for business communication - It is one of the most secure ways of transmitting business information as your company needs an Enterprise Server to allow access to company mail servers. The TRA have probably taken this move as they cannot monitor your conversations / mails etc via a BB.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:01 August 1, 2010

This is completely un-acceptable, Blackberry device is a useful electronic device which makes things easier for Business in this fast and hectic world the TRA needs to find an alternative solution to put these problems to an end and i urge Telecommunications like Du and Etisalat to restrict the service for only Business purpose cause every individual from a 10 year boy to an adult own a blackberry for the sake of entertainment and amusement Blackberry is a complete Business use device.

Mikhail , Florida, United States

Added 12:01 August 1, 2010

WHEN INTRODUCING A NEW SERVICE IN THE INDUSTRY, THERE SHOULD BE A THOROUGH CHECKING, TRA DIDN'T CHECK THE POLICY AND THE USAGE OF THE BB SERVICES BEFORE? FOR THE PAST TWO YEARS THERE IS A VITAL GROWTH IN THE BUSINESS AND SOCIAL PART DUE TO BB SERVICES, ESPECIALLY THE BB MESSENGER AND THE EMAIL SERVICES. TO OUR EXCLAMATION, THE WORLD IS READY FOR A FLYING CAR IN LESS THAN THREE YEARS, BUT IN UAE I THINK IT WILL ALSO BE BANNED FOR SECURITY REASONS? LETS WAIT AND SEE ..

Mohammad Bava, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:00 August 1, 2010

This is illogical decision. Blackberry is used extensively in all major countries including some "high risk" ones. All developed nations allow Blackberry services and to think that these countries do not value their country's security and willingly take risks is a highly illogical comment. Blackberry service has been in use since 2005 and if there was some big calamity to happen it would have happened by now! Suppressing technology only leads to people seeking alternative ways to circumvent those restrictions. Similar is the case of internet censorhsip which has resulted in most people jumping the restrictions by using proxies and other means !! Technology is always one step ahead of any restrictions !

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 12:00 August 1, 2010

I totally disagree with what the new decision about Blackberry smart phone. Dubai is a growing country and so is there population. I have seen people in Dubai just starting to experience new technical products I think it is a good thing to have people experience new enhanced products coming to think about is people are going to experience much more difficulties such as more expensive phone bills. Even to talk to friends and family outside the UAE will be more pricey. Unfortunately it is very upsetting hearing this news when you think wow we are in 2010 our technical support should be way more enhanced. Its very disappointing to have to agree with this new decision.

Maryam, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:58 August 1, 2010

Will we be given pigeons in place of our Blackberrys to carry our messages across? This is where we seem to be headed.

Anonymous, Ajman, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:58 August 1, 2010

I believe this suspension should be reviewed again. It is an ideal tool to have in this day and age. I am able to communicate with my family and friends from the Caribbean everyday very economically especially living alone in Dubai. This Blackberry service has brought happiness to not only myself but many other expats. Please re-consider this action.

Immanuel, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:58 August 1, 2010

I cannot believe the TRA have taken this route. Why did they allow Blackberry's to be sold in the FIRST PLACE 4 years ago! I mean, c'mon this is pathetic.

Grace Julian, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:54 August 1, 2010

Lets bring Blackberries into UAE wooo hooo, now lets suspends the services...Why this issue was not brought up to resolve it before the service providers implemented it on market? Seriously it's getting now very annoying.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:53 August 1, 2010

I have a question for TRA that you people are so much worried about the security of your own people but how about the countries where Etisalat has an operator license? I think all those countries should feel the same and cancel all the Etisalat licenses as they are an OFFSHORE company which is originally not based in their respective country and their data can be exported to the UAE and can be used for any purpose.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:53 August 1, 2010

This isn't a smart move, it will ruin Dubai's business system and way of life. Most companies rely on Blackberry for jobs. Dubai will lose a lot of money from this. Just watch.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:53 August 1, 2010

This is not fair at all!!! We are really annoyed with this decision and won't accept it. It's either they find an alternative solution or keep it as it is. Why did they allow the services within the UAE in the first place. Literally, this is nonsense!!!

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:51 August 1, 2010

I really hope they try to figure out a different way to solve this problem rather than suspending the service. We are all so addicted to the Blackberry messenger and its going to be really hard on us to switch back to "communicating through sms".

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:50 August 1, 2010

It's surprising how in the whole bargain it is the consumers who get affected. This is counter productive to making this place the most viable commercial hub connecting Asia and the West. Threats to ban a service due to lack of being able to effectively bring out a solution which will not affect consumers who are paying for such services but also only proves that the only solution when things get tough is to go and ban a service. If other countries can successfully negotiate alternatives, so can the UAE.

Anonymous, Bombay, India

Added 11:50 August 1, 2010

Blackberry is a very useful business tool (though people are using it for socialising also!). With the tough economic situation and competitiveness prevailing, the authorities have to ensure that UAE is a friendly and hassle free business place. Communications is a vital part of any business and with this ban- progress, productivity and growth will be stalled. So the authorities have to reconsider their decisions

RPM, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:50 August 1, 2010

This is absolutely absurd. The whole world is using the Blackberry service, and the UAE is the only one which is feeling a threat. I wonder if there is an ulterior motive.

Ahmad Bilal, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:50 August 1, 2010

Dissapointing news. Blackberry is so far the most convenient and easy to use tool for internet related applications and business communication. I'm inquisitive to know what substitute or replacement TRA has to offer for the Blackberry services.

Assad Maliik, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:49 August 1, 2010

Do you want to be on the World stage or stay on the Middle East stage. You promote the place worldwide with advertising, sponsorship and fancy buildings and then bring in a ridiculous new restriction on the use of a mobile phone service. Do you realise how many business transactions could be affected by bringing this restriction in? If you really have to, then OK restrict web browsing, but restricting e-mail and messaging services is ridiculous.

CK, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:47 August 1, 2010

I would say this is more of a joke! I have been depending on Blackberry since 2005 for my business. Blackberry is used internationally in major business aspects, and here in th UAE, due to minor loss in revenue (probably due to Blackberry messenger in lieu of sms'ing) then they want to block? Guys be realistic, at a time of recession, don't complicate things for no reason. What will half a million users in the UAE do? Be reasonable, blocking/ banning/etc it the way to deal in this new century!

George, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:47 August 1, 2010

BB is a tool that helps people communicate and be more productive especially those people on the move and who travel a lot. If some people abuse the use of it, the rest pays the price? I am very surprised at such a vulnerable decision from the TRA who simply is clueless. How about we also stop the internet and TV, I mean couldn't they be a social risk factor? TRA is stopping this cos they cant have a copy of the messages people exchange on the BB messenger. A big shame...

Chris, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:47 August 1, 2010

The Blackberry handset and the Blackberry services were bought by people in the UAE with the common belief Etisalat and Du being entities, under the supervision of TRA, would have considered that all legal obligations would be met before marketing Blackberry services in the country. Handsets and subscription are costs to an individual which was incurred solely with the services in mind. If at this point TRA decides to pull the plug as confirmed above, who would be reimbursing costs incurred? A Blackberry handset is of no more use to anyone if the services are not available. The common man in the UAE has been cheated. I feel TRA Etisalat and Du are liable for this.

Dushyanth, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:43 August 1, 2010

What does TRA expect to do after banning Blackberry. It's revolutionary mobile communication and this measure is just stopping telecommunication growth of UAE. Blackberry is business. I don't agree with TRA on this, they could have put up some regulations on the service, but not entirely removing the service.

Benna, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:41 August 1, 2010

I am a blackberry user since a year ago and i have found it to be very useful and convenient. It has helped bridge the gap between me and my family and friends since i am alone here in Dubai. I am tremendously thankful for it. Now, just because people cannot regulate the contents being loaded by some blackberry users, TRA will suspend its services in the UAE? Telecommunications play a big part of evolution. It opens us into a whole new world outside the realm of what we know as home. Each and every blackberry user will suffer because of some? This is quite unfair. I hope they think twice about doing this as a lot of companies are benefitting from the usage of the blackberry itself. And individuals like me, don't feel as dettached from their lived ones back home because of this little but mighty device.

Jenny, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:41 August 1, 2010

Suspended ??? Why& how did the TRA allow the BB to be used in the UAE in the first place??? Why did the TRA permit Etisalat/DU to sell these phones over the last 4years to honest citizens?

Anonymous, Shj, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:40 August 1, 2010

how can you even consider a smart phone without such services. where is the consistency? technology today defines the strategic development/movement among humane society. it is accesible and a tool of communication wise. society who does not belong in the business world do not understand such constraints. but for us who is doing business and official transactions on a daily basis means a lot. it will also boost up the exchange and market proceedings on all various areas. come to think of it? this is a disastrous move.

Kristine, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:39 August 1, 2010

This will be a total disaster...they should look for an alternative than suspending the service. Etisalat has lost its revenue on sms bc'os of BB and other messenger available on BB handset...

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:39 August 1, 2010

Suspending the Service is not the Solution. They should provide an alternative solution. For business Blackberry is the Backbone. I think the way technology is developing and expanding it very difficult to control it .

Prveen, Delhi, India

Added 11:38 August 1, 2010

hop the suspension is only for a short time and it doesnt become a dissmisal..tra had no other option but to take this step which wil stil affect peples routine.Its going to affect people for sure! only thing we can hope is that the suspension doesnt get extended and the tra understands that blackberry functions the same all over the world ..!

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:37 August 1, 2010

I cannot believe they are going this step. 90% of all companies in UAE use Blackberry...not to messenge but to WORK. To bring money into this country. The only thing that might happen now is that this money spend here will go to some Outside provider with roaming packages.

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:36 August 1, 2010

I have been blackberry service user now for 4 years and have been using blackberry service ever since when blackberry was for those elite few. At this stage when blackberry has become an essence of life where in social networking and emails could be easily accessed and lot of work could be done at finger tip TRA is trying to stop using of this beautiful service. I have been so used to this service along with the functionality of blackberry that i just cant think of surviving without this service any more neither can any platform provide just a beautiful and easy usage. I think TRA's decision is too harsh.

Obaid Syed, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:35 August 1, 2010

Does this mean that after spending a couple of hundred dirhams on a blackberry handset, subscription to the BB plan, I now have to discontinue and resort to Apple, which would roughly have the same feature? I can't see the logic. So what if the server is based outside UAE; what stops people from using their mobile phone to get connected to WAP, access the internet, login to yahoo / msn chats to send messages?

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:33 August 1, 2010

Good move from TRA. I fully support TRA and these RIM services should be banned as they do not respect UAE law and regulation..

Beethin, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:30 August 1, 2010

This is not right - Blackberry is a global tool for people to conduct their business on the move. Even the Blackberry Messenger has become an intrinsic part of business communication and transactions. Why would the UAE wish to hinder progress and productivity when the world is doing its best to recover?

Jones, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:30 August 1, 2010

I am so glad that TRA has made this decision. Blackberry started to eliminate our daily face to face communication.

Ahmad Ali, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:30 August 1, 2010

What about Google Talk? Yahoo chat, MSN messenger? Dont they host and save data outside? As an IT security professional, there is no such thing "100% secure" there is always room for security breach. Companies have invested in Blackberry infrastructure, by buying enterprise servers (provided by Etisalat), MS exchange plug-ins etc. I wonder TRA doesn't know that all the emails are routed first through exchange then they pushed or pulled from Blackberry servers? I am fine with messenger but suspending emails?? Why??

Adnan Ansari, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:27 August 1, 2010

What is this. I just purchased my Blackberry & now the services will be cancelled. TRA or service providers should get an alternative solutions for this. Non of the other countries are facing such issues then why UAE only.

Hina Amin, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:26 August 1, 2010

I am using blacknerry email service&blackberry web browsing services and i never use blackberry messenger. I have one request,bothe the operators Du & Etisalat are giving big discounts and attractive offers and selling maximum number of blackbery sets.I purchased based on such an offer from DU which entitles me six months of free unlimited usage after paying the first month bill,I took the connection in the first week of July and will pay the first month fee this august and i am entitled to get the free service till Jan 2011.If the service is stopped in OCT 2010 i am cheated. If this is the case then please take necessary steps to stop the sale of blackberry sets from today untill all issues are solved,atleast more people will not get cheated

VARGHESE.P.VARGHESE, AL AIN, India

Added 11:26 August 1, 2010

My Director is really stunned to hear the news. Hope Etisalat will find an alternative solution within the deadline time period.

Rashid N. Abu Bakr, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Added 11:24 August 1, 2010

I really hope they try to figure out a different way to solve this problem rather than suspending the service. We are all so addicted to the Blackberry messenger and its going to be really hard on us to switch back to "communicating through sms".

Anonymous, Dubai, United Arab Emirates