Skype in UAE?
Mar 7, 2014 | 3:01 pm
#1
Original Poster
Original Member, Moderator: Hotel Deals and MilesBuzz
Join Date: May 1998
Location: Washington, DC
Posts: 14,291
Skype in UAE?
I've read conflicting stories online as to whether or not Skype is allowed in the UAE. Has anyone had any recent experience?
Thanks.
Thanks.
Mar 7, 2014 | 8:23 pm
#3
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Chicago
Programs: UA 1K, 1MM; former GS
Posts: 306
I have had no issues using Skype from Dubai, computer to computer. Just make sure you have a working version installed on your device before you travel as you will be blocked trying to download it from Dubai.
Mar 7, 2014 | 11:53 pm
#4
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: United Arab Emirates & Arizona, USA
Programs: UA MM/1P, EK Ag, Marriott Life Ti, Hilton Dia, IC Dia, Hyatt Glob, Accor Pt
Posts: 4,723
I think it used to be the case that one of the internet service providers (Etisalat) blocked it, while the other one (Du) allowed it. (It was a perhaps unadvertised advantage of Du. An ISP USP?)
In some hotels in which I have stayed it works, while in others it does not. Though it seems to have worked more lately; maybe the blocking is sporadic and/or some hotels have their own systems or constraints.
In some hotels in which I have stayed it works, while in others it does not. Though it seems to have worked more lately; maybe the blocking is sporadic and/or some hotels have their own systems or constraints.
Apr 14, 2014 | 12:27 pm
#6
Join Date: Aug 2000
Location: Exile
Posts: 16,064
I use Skype from the UAE multiple times daily.
Skype-to-Skype works without any issues.
Skype to phone works using a basic free VPN service.
Sometimes you can sneak a Skype to phone through the Etisalat/Du firewall (more often with Du than Etisalat), but don't count on it.
Skype-to-Skype works without any issues.
Skype to phone works using a basic free VPN service.
Sometimes you can sneak a Skype to phone through the Etisalat/Du firewall (more often with Du than Etisalat), but don't count on it.