The UAE currently restricts the usage of VoIP services such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, Zoom and so many others. This ban has hindered the ability of people to communicate remotely with teammates, clients, partners, family members and friends alike.

While internet calling and video conferencing have become the de facto standard around the world residents and visitors of the UAE are impaired in their ability to communicate effectively with those abroad. This has had a profoundly negative impact on day-to-day life and business as we know it. 

Now, with the scare of COVID-19 looming over everyone’s heads, travel has been restricted, conferences cancelled and schools moving towards remote learning. While these measures are for good reason, it is even more urgent for the UAE to lift the ban on VoIP services, at least for the time being.