The UAE Ministry of Economy and the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) have introduced regulations on marketing phone calls and penalties for violations.
The rules apply to all licensed companies in the UAE, including free zone firms, conducting phone marketing.
Fines range from AED10,000 to AED150,000 for firms breaching the rules. Individuals face penalties of up to AED50,000 and a communications ban for unlicensed telemarketing. The new regulations aim to balance business interests with consumer privacy rights.
UAE companies must obtain approval before telemarketing
The Ministry of Economy will oversee implementation in coordination with relevant entities, each according to its jurisdiction, a statement by WAM said.
Companies must obtain approval from the competent authority before telemarketing. Individuals are prohibited from initiating marketing calls to offer products or services.
The regulations aim to regulate telemarketing and reduce unwanted calls while ensuring “consumers’ comfort and value their privacy,” the statement added.
Firms must contact customers between 9AM to 6PM and not call again if the person refuses an offer. They can only call once a day or twice a week if the consumer does not answer.
Controls include only using local phone numbers registered under the company licence. Firms must provide training for marketers on “professional conduct ethics” and keep records of all marketing calls. Periodic reports must also be submitted to the authority.
A code of “professional conduct” may be introduced. Consumers can register with the Do Not Contact Registry to opt out of calls. Procedures are in place to handle complaints about unwanted telemarketing.
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