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.

I use computer to computer (or iPad to iPad) no problems. I think computer to phone is technically illegal, but still works I think (not tried it myself).

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.

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.

I used Skype computer to phone last month at the Hyatt Regency. My family could hear me but I couldn't hear them - got some weird signal noise.

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.