WhatsApp video calling unblocked in UAE

Some users have been able to use video calling functions previously blocked in the UAE

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ABU DHABI // Voice and video calling features on WhatsApp and Facebook were unblocked in the UAE on Wednesday night.

The unblocking of the service - which has yet to be identified as temporary glitch or a permanent move - was met with joy across Twitter, leading to a trending “WhatsApp call in the UAE” hashtag.

However not all users of the instant messaging app - which uses voice over internet protocol (VoIP) technology to allow users to make calls over the worldwide web. - have been able to use the service with many taking to Twitter to say they had trouble connecting both domestically and internationally.

The UAE's Telecommunications Regulatory Authority said no changes have been made to their policy about communications through internet protocol.

"Any such applications or services must be in compliance with the UAE’s telecommunication regulations that allow VoIP services to be provided in the country only by licensed telecom operators," the TRA said.

Video calling on WhatsApp, Snapchat and Facebook has previously been inaccessible in the UAE as the law prohibits the use of external VoIP providers.