What apps are not allowed in Dubai?


While unlicensed Voice-over-Internet-Protocol services like WhatsApp, Skype and Viber are not supported in the UAE, due to security and cybercrime concerns, there are several alternative voice and video calling apps that residents can use.The UAE, home to the oil-rich capital of Abu Dhabi and the freewheeling financial hub of Dubai, long has blocked internet calling apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime, presumably due to security concerns and to protect the revenues of its monopoly state-run telecommunication companies.The usage of VPN in the UAE is not illegal if it’s used as per the guidelines of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority.

What apps are prohibited in Dubai?

While unlicensed Voice-over-Internet-Protocol services like WhatsApp, Skype and Viber are not supported in the UAE, due to security and cybercrime concerns, there are several alternative voice and video calling apps that residents can use.

Which social media is blocked in Dubai?

WhatsApp and other VOIP services like Skype, IMO, and others are banned in Dubai. Dubai has banned many other services and has its reasons for doing so.

Is WhatsApp banned in Dubai?

WhatsApp, like most free VoIP and messaging services, is blocked in Dubai and The UAE.

Is Instagram allowed in Dubai?

Yes, you can use Instagram in Dubai.

What is forbidden in Dubai?

Swearing and making rude gestures (including online) are considered obscene acts and offenders can be jailed or deported. Take particular care when dealing with the police and other officials. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and there have been several arrests for kissing in public.

Is video call ban in Dubai?

WhatsApp voice and video calls are not allowed in Dubai, although you can send texts. A VPN can help you bypass a WhatsApp ban because it can spoof your location. ExpressVPN is the best VPN to unblock WhatsApp in Dubai because of its vast server network and reliability.

Can you use Facebook in Dubai?

Voice of Internet Protocol (VoIP) applications such as Skype, FaceTime, WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are blocked in the UAE. The use of such applications without a legal right is an offence and is punishable by imprisonment and/or a fine. 3. If you are outside the country do the rules still apply?

Is TikTok available in Dubai?

TikTok has global offices including Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Jakarta, Seoul and Tokyo.

Is Gmail blocked in Dubai?

The use of free email such as Hotmail, Gmail and Yahoo has been banned under the new regulations and official email cannot be used for personal purposes.

Is it legal to use VPN in Dubai?

The UAE actually has laws related to the use of VPNs. Indeed, UAE law says that a VPN is only illegal if it's used to commit a crime. The Telecom Regulatory Authority (TRA) is responsible for internet censorship in the UAE.

Can you wear shorts in Dubai?

Around new areas such as Dubai Marina or Downtown it is not such an issue and men and women can wear shorts and sleeveless or strappy tops. If you are in some of the older areas like Deira or Bur Dubai then a little more respect should be shown and wearing a t-shirt and slightly longer pants is recommended.

Is Sexting allowed in Dubai?

Sexting in the UAE is against the law. That also includes nude selfies, as this young couple found out.

Is selfie allowed in Dubai?

Article 378 of the UAE Penal Code (Federal Law No. 3 of 1987) states that taking a person's photo without his/her consent is an invasion of privacy, and thus punishable by law.

What can you get locked up for in Dubai?

Using vulgar or obscene language in public, along with making rude gestures, can get you arrested in Dubai. There have been numerous incidents of tourists, as well as residents, being arrested for giving the middle finger during a heated argument or traffic incident.

Is dating apps allowed in Dubai?

The online dating scene is constantly changing in the UAE, and many dating sites are actually banned. Surprisingly though, Tinder usually works (always with a VPN, sometimes even without one).

What apps are prohibited in Dubai?

While unlicensed Voice-over-Internet-Protocol services like WhatsApp, Skype and Viber are not supported in the UAE, due to security and cybercrime concerns, there are several alternative voice and video calling apps that residents can use.

Is Instagram allowed in Dubai?

Yes, you can use Instagram in Dubai.

What is the weirdest law in Dubai?

The strangest of all Dubai laws for tourists to remember is to never spread rumours. Gossiping on social media especially can end up in jail for 3 years and you'll have to pay a fine of 1 million dirhams.

What are some strange laws in Dubai?

Swearing is punishable by up to a year in prison and a fine as high as 10,000 dirhams (£2,157). Flashing your middle finger, which is considered an “indecent gesture” that breaches “a victim's pride, privacy and/or modesty”, will result in deportation.

Is WhatsApp monitored in UAE?

Technically, no. You do not have to worry about your chats being monitored on WhatsApp.

Why is WhatsApp call not allowed in UAE?

The security situation in the Arab world is not conducive for enabling end-to-end encrypted calling features on instant messaging services like WhatsApp, Dr. Saeed Al Dhaheri, Chairman of SmartWorld, a digital service provider and a joint initiative between Etisalat and Dubai South.

Does Dubai have free WiFi?

Dubai is a smart city with many places offering free wi-fi service. The places where you can enjoy free WiFi in Dubai include airports, shopping malls, restaurants and cafes. Read on to find out how to get access to free Wi-Fi in Dubai.

Can I take a camera to Dubai?

Article 378 of the UAE Code states that taking pictures without obtaining permission will result in the camera being confiscated, recordings destroyed and photographers being charged a fine, or in some situations, being imprisoned.

Can I video call on Facebook in Dubai?

All voice and video calls via different platforms such as Messenger, Whatsapp, Skype etc are banned in Dubai. You will have to subscribe to either Botim or CME ( they are apps like whatsapp etc) from your telecom operator Du/ Etisalat. These are the only two legit voice/video calling apps which work in Dubai.

Which country has no TikTok?

Countries such as Indonesia and Bangladesh have banned it on the basis of pornography-related concerns, while others like Armenia and Azerbaijan have implemented restrictions to mitigate the spread of information which could lead to conflict.