The ban is to be introduced as the technical infrastructure of the BlackBerry features operate outside of the regulatory framework set up by the TRA in 2007. Because of this BlackBerry users cannot be effectively monitored by the UAE authorities which creates a number of national security concerns, the board explained.
Mohamed Al Ghanim, TRA director, said that the ban will be in place until “an acceptable solution can be developed and applied”.
“The TRA notes that Blackberry appears to be compliant in similar regulatory environments of other countries, which makes non-compliance in the UAE both disappointing and of great concern,” he added.
Reports have claimed that such a move could put the reputation of the UAE as a hub for business and financial services at risk it goes ahead.
In a similar move the authorities in Saudi Arabia have also announced that a ban on BlackBerry messaging services is to be implemented.