TRA denies Skype usage penalties

Abu Dhabi:The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has denied claims published by a local newspaper pertaining to the unauthorised usage of the video-call service, Skype. The news initially sparked an outrage after it claimed that unauthorised access and usage of Skype will see users slapped with fines of up to Dh1 million or even imprisonment.

The TRA has also stated that all fines and penalties referred to in the newspaper are strictly up to UAE courts to decide. As for Skype services, the TRA announced on April 9,2013 that policies related to use of Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) call services only permit etisalat and Du, both fully licensed by the TRA, to provide communication services in the UAE. This policy is still in effect and remains unchanged.

TRA added that ISP’s lifting the block from the Skype website does not mean a change in the TRA’s policies or stance on usage of the software. This service remains an “organised activity” therefore should be provided through permitted operators. However, if these services were to be provided through a partnership with a third party, the licensees, etisalat and Du, must apply for approval after meeting technical and other necessary requirements. As this is yet to happen with Skype services, VOIP services through Skype are still not permitted.