The Telecom Regulatory Authority (TRI) of UAE has hinted that the regulatory body is likely to lift the ban on VoIP next month. However, the relaxation would be applicable for the incumbent service providers who hold licensees for the service.
The message is straight and clear. TRI does not like to allow Skype or any foreign players in the domestic VoIP market.
If applied with effect, the incumbents Etisalat and Du will face no competition. No competition means absolute monopoly. The consumers are the ultimate losers since they will have no more options but to adopt what is provided to them.
Two months back, I have written here how the UAE customers reacted when the TRI imposed ban on VoIP. I am sure the UAE customers will demand for Skype even though they are ensured VoIP services of Etisalat.
