UAE Telemarketing Regulations Key Rules for Compliance

Learn about UAE Telemarketing Regulations & stay compliant. Protect consumer privacy and avoid penalties. Contact Dubai lawyers today!

As of August 27, 2024, the implemented new UAE telemarketing regulations directly impact companies engaging in telemarketing activities. These rules are outlined in Cabinet Resolution No. (56) of 2024, which aims to protect consumers from unwanted marketing calls while ensuring that companies follow strict guidelines.

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This blog will break down these regulations, making them easy to understand so your company can remain compliant and avoid penalties

Key Definitions

Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to understand some key terms as defined by the legislation:

Telemarketing

Refers to phone calls made to consumers for marketing, advertising, or promoting products or services, including marketing text messages and social media messages, as outlined in the UAE telemarketing regulations.

Do Not Connect Register (DNCR): 

A unified national registry that consumers can join to avoid unwanted marketing calls.

Unwanted Marketing Phone Calls: 

Any marketing calls made in violation of this resolution.

Objectives of the Resolution

The primary goals of this resolution are to:

1. Establish clear rules to ensure telemarketing activities do not disrupt economic and social stability.
2. Companies follow approved marketing channels and respect designated calling times.
3. Minimize the occurrence of unwanted marketing calls to safeguard consumer comfort and privacy.

To Whom It Applies?

The resolution applies to all companies licensed in the UAE, including those in free zones, that engage in telemarketing. Individuals must not make marketing calls to promote their own products or services or those of their representatives.

Company Obligations

Companies engaging in telemarketing must adhere to several obligations, including:

1. Prior Approval: Obtain authorization from the relevant authority before engaging in telemarketing.
2. Training: Ensure marketers are well-trained in ethical conduct and using the Do Not Call Registry.
3. Use of Local Numbers: Only use phone numbers registered under the company’s commercial license.
4. Consumer Consent: Only contact consumers interested in receiving marketing communications.
5. Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of all marketing calls and prevent premature destruction of these records.

Call Controls

The resolution also outlines specific controls that companies must follow when making marketing calls:

• Calls should only be made between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.
• Companies must avoid pressuring consumers or using deceptive practices.
• Repeated calls are prohibited if the consumer declines the offer on the first call.
• Companies can use automated systems for marketing, but they must ensure compliance with the resolution’s provisions.

Consumer Protections

The resolution introduces several protections for consumers under the UAE telemarketing regulations. Consumers can file complaints about unwanted marketing calls with the Competent Authority. Companies must not disclose consumer personal data without consent or use it for marketing without explicit permission.

Further non-compliance with the resolution can result in significant administrative penalties. Future resolutions will determine the exact penalties based on the Minister’s and relevant authorities’ proposals.

Conclusion

Any company involved in direct marketing must ensure compliance with the UAE telemarketing regulations. For further guidance or legal assistance, consider contacting top law firms in Dubai or consulting with Dubai lawyers specializing in company law. Dubai Lawyers can provide tailored advice and ensure that your business complies with all legal requirements in the region.

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