Starting August 27, 2024, new telemarketing regulations in the UAE will come into effect, introducing significant restrictions and penalties for violations. These rules aim to protect residents from unsolicited and intrusive cold calls, addressing growing complaints about telemarketing practices.
Key Restrictions and Penalties:
- Calling Hours: Telemarketers are restricted to calling between 9 am and 6 pm. Violations could result in fines ranging from Dh10,000 to Dh50,000 for repeat offenders.
- Repeated Calls: If a customer rejects a product or service during the first call, telemarketers are prohibited from calling back the same day. Repeated violations can incur fines up to Dh50,000.
- Unregistered Numbers: Companies using unregistered numbers for telemarketing can face fines between Dh25,000 and Dh75,000.
- Do Not Call Registry (DNCR): Calling customers on the DNCR can result in fines of up to Dh150,000.
- Call Recording: Companies must notify consumers if calls are being recorded, with penalties between Dh10,000 and Dh30,000 for non-compliance.
- Training and Reporting: Companies failing to train marketers or provide required reports may be fined up to Dh50,000.
Incremental Penalties for Repeated Offenses:
- Lack of Approval: Companies failing to obtain prior approval for telemarketing can be fined Dh75,000 initially, escalating to Dh150,000 for repeated violations.
- Disclosure Violations: Fines up to Dh75,000 can be imposed for failing to disclose the source of consumer data upon request.
Personal Data Protection:
- Unauthorized Data Use: Companies disclosing or trading consumer data without consent face fines starting at Dh50,000, increasing to Dh150,000 for repeated offenses.
Natural Persons:
- Personal Penalties: Individuals making marketing calls from licensed numbers under their name face a fine of Dh5,000 for the first violation, with penalties increasing to Dh50,000 and service restrictions for further violations.
These regulations, governed by Cabinet Resolution No. (57) of 2024, underscore the UAE's commitment to protecting consumer rights and ensuring responsible telemarketing practices. Businesses are encouraged to fully comply with these new laws to avoid substantial financial penalties.
News Source: Khaleej Times
