WHATSAPP is one of the most used smartphone services in the world with users being able to text, phone, video call and send each other pictures. Despite the app being a global phenomenon, some places have put restrictions on how people can use WhatsApp including Dubai - here’s why. While WhatsApp does work over in sunny Dubai, users can only use the app’s texting features.
People can send regular messages to one another including sharing pictures and video via the chat options. This also means the ever-popular group chats are still accessible. However, Dubai has imposed restrictions when it comes to making voice calls and video calls on WhatsApp.
Whether you live in the holiday hotspot all year round or if you’re just stopping by for a short stay, the app is hindered by the strict government regulations. Dubai is one of the most popular cities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where there are strict internet restrictions imposed by the government. In the Middle Eastern region, internet usage is monitored by the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA).
The TRA decided to place a ban on WhatsApp, as well as other similar apps like Facetime , Skype and Viber which all use face-to-face calls. The group have blocked apps that offer free, unlicensed VoiP calls and censor any content that goes against Islamic morality or includes drugs, nudity, gambling, or anti-government sentiments. There are only two internet providers in the UAE and one is owned by the government and .
