Ministry of Economy Outlines New Regulations for Telemarketing Firms in UAE

The Ministry of Economy (MoEc) held a media briefing to outline the UAE's new regulations for telephone marketing. The briefing focused on Cabinet Resolutions No. 56 and 57 of 2024, which establish rules for marketing calls and outline penalties for violations.

Key Points from the Resolutions:

• Resolution No. 56: Regulates telephone marketing practices for licensed companies. Requirements include:
  • Obtaining prior approval for marketing activities.
  • Training marketers on ethics and the "Do Not Contact Register" (DNCR).
  • Using local, registered telephone numbers.
  • Communicating only with consumers who have opted in.
  • Maintaining call records and notifying consumers if calls are recorded.
  • Adhering to a strict calling schedule (9 am to 6 pm).
  • Identifying the company and the purpose of the call at the start.
  • Disclosing the source of consumer data if requested.
• Resolution No. 57: Specifies 18 types of administrative violations with penalties ranging from AED 10,000 to 150,000, depending on the severity of the infraction.

Regulatory Bodies Involved:

• Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA): Manages the DNCR, oversees telemarketing regulations, and imposes penalties.
• Central Bank of the UAE: Regulates telephone marketing for financial institutions.
• Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA): Oversees marketing calls related to securities and commodities.
• Licensing Authorities: Handle telemarketing issues within their respective jurisdictions.

Penalties for Violations:

• Individuals making unauthorized marketing calls face fines starting at AED 5,000, with increasing penalties for repeat offenses, potentially up to AED 50,000 and denial of telecommunications services.

The UAE aims to ensure a regulated and consumer-friendly telemarketing environment, fostering ethical practices and protecting consumer rights.