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Residents are left frustrated and unable to contact their loved ones abroad
25 June 2017
| Last updated on 25 June 2017
After the mysterious unblocking (and re-blocking) of WhatsApp video and voice calling on smartphones, it now appears that popular and widely-used Skype application has now been blocked.
Following days of speculation, Skype have now confirmed that it has indeed been blocked in the UAE... But the reasons are unclear, and are still yet to be announced by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) - the official body that regulates communication services in the country.
Nonetheless, Skype themselves are referring users to a statement made on its website to confirm the blocking, and have been responding to social media users directly.
"Unfortunately, there is very little Skype can do about this situation. The best course of action would be for you to speak to your ISP and ask why they are blocking Skype and request that they unblock our site and services."
The UAE's ISPs (Internet Service Providers) are Etisalat and du (telco).
However du are referring its customers to contact the RTA directly. The communication service Skype was previously blocked in the UAE, but was reversed allowing residents living here to contact their friends and families around the world without issue.
Understandably, with the confusion surrounding WhatsApp's services, and now with Skype being blocked once again, residents are frustrated at the inability to communicate with loved ones easily, evident in comments via social media.
How long until Skype is working again in UAE? My son hasn't been able to Skype his dad for ages
— Maddie Davis (@maddiedavisx) June 25, 2017
In a country where the large majority of the population are expatriates living away from their families and friends, it's no wonder everyone's left feeling a little upset over the recent communication restrictions.
SEE ALSO: 6 ways to keep in touch with family while living abroad
Here's hoping either one or both of the services are opened to users again soon, otherwise those living here will no doubt be required to pay for costly international calls and messages.
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