Can you use Skype in Dubai?

Expert Info

Posted by

on 28 Jul 2011

Can you use Skype in Dubai, or is it banned? If I already have it installed on the laptop I plan on bringing, do I need to remove it?

Anonymous (not verified) on 28 Jul 2011 - 07:54

Unfortunately Skype in banned in Dubai, but that doesn't stop expats from using it; if you've already installed it on your laptop you should definitely keep it. Some places in Dubai's free zones have the software available, but other than that, you won't find it at Internet Cafes.

So, if you already have it installed on your computer you've already taken one step in the right direction. You'll still be able to use it and you'll probably get a pretty decent connection most of the time.

Those that haven't installed it can either access it via a proxy or a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Do note that the "Help" page is blocked in the UAE.

Lots of expats use the program, so don't be too worried about it.

Anonymous (not verified) on 28 Mar 2012 - 15:11

Interestiung point re: Skype. Do the same rules apply for Apples FaceTime?

Anonymous (not verified) on 29 Mar 2012 - 08:57

Apple facetime is barred in the UAE and iphone devises purchased in the UAE won't have the application enabled. There have been reports that some people have been able to use the app, but once they update their software in the UAE the icon dissapears from their device. Some have been able to get around this by accessing it through a proxy or VPN - so something to look into...

Anonymous (not verified) on 9 Apr 2012 - 19:38

What's wrong with skype? Why do they ban it? It's even legal in Saudi Arabia!!!

Anonymous (not verified) on 4 Jun 2012 - 05:59

The Skype ban is a grey area. I've been here for 8 years and use Skype a lot, all the expats and a lot of locals also use Skype in Dubai. I've never heard of anyone getting in any trouble for using it. The telecom providers make a lot of revenue from international calls, a 1 min call to the UK costs 60 times more than using skype. Skype to Skype calls work fine on Du internet connections but you will have issues calling land-lines or mobiles. Most people use a VPN service to get round this issue, it's also bypasses the internet proxy filter allowing you to view websites normally blocked here. I use one called Quickvpn, works really well for £6 a month also allows you to watch UK TV from iplayer etc.

Anonymous (not verified) on 9 Sep 2012 - 10:53

To use Skype in UAE and pretty much most Middle Eastern countries you will have to connect via a proxy VPN service that shows your computer is elsewhere in the (eg. UK), The good thing about registering with one of these is that you also get to watch UK/US TV on your laptop. Ive been using www.laptoptelly.com, reason being it works for Skype access and UK TV, but also lets torrents run when you are connected. hope that helps.

Anonymous (not verified) on 24 Dec 2012 - 21:53

how do you connect via a proxy VPN service?

lindacarter on 7 Sep 2016 - 08:36

You can simply get a vpn and access skype!I recommend SaturnVPN , it realy works in Dubai

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