On Sunday, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced new rules on telemarketing as part of its plan to crack down on repeated cold calls. Failing to follow these rules could lead to fines of up to Dh150,000 ($40,838) or the loss of their business licenses.
New regulations from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TRA) and Ministry of Economy aim to safeguard citizens from dishonest telemarketers.
Enhanced protocols have been implemented for all licensed telemarketing companies in the Emirates, including those operating in free zones, that utilize calls to landlines and mobile phones to promote their products.
“The resolutions aim to regulate the marketing of products and services through telemarketing to maintain economic and social stability, ensure companies adhere to the channels and times for marketing the products and services they offer and reduce unwanted marketing phone calls to ensure consumers’ comfort and value their privacy,” Government Media Office said.
Guidelines
Between nine in the morning and six in the afternoon is prime time for telemarketers.
Before conducting promotional calls, companies must obtain approval from the appropriate authorities.
When a consumer rejects a service or product, the business cannot contact them.
A company needs the proper permits and a registered phone line to make marketing calls.
Customers might notify the proper authorities when they encounter businesses that do not adhere to these standards.
Penalties
For companies that make advertising calls without first getting permission, the minimum fine is Dh75,000, and for subsequent crimes, the fines are Dh100,000 and Dh150,000.
Businesses that broke the rules could have had their advertising stopped for 7–90 days and had their licences taken away.
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