Despite Kohli's flowing form ahead of the T20 World Cup in June, pundits have raised concerns over his strike-rate
That calls over Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) are not allowed in the UAE is well known, and Thursday's deviation from this policy sent phones ringing across Dubai and India, US, UK, when people called their friends and family to share the news.
The expat community couldn't hide their excitement on social media platforms, lauding the UAE government for the 'perfect Eid Al Fitr gift'.
We tested calling on WhatsApp and it worked on both WiFi connection and mobile data, on both Etisalat and du networks.
In a statement, the UAE's Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) clarified that "there is no change in the UAE's Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Policy. TRA reconfirms that any applications or services of this type must comply with the applicable regulatory framework in the country."
In a previous statement, TRA had said that "VoIP services are still a prerogative of the licensed providers who reserve the right to provide such services through their networks. Companies wishing to offer such services must co-ordinate with the licensed telecom providers in the UAE".
Khaleej Times readers react
As the story was posted this morning, Khaleej Times readers on Facebook were surprised with the new development.
Do let us know if WhatsApp video and voice service has begun working for you.
Despite Kohli's flowing form ahead of the T20 World Cup in June, pundits have raised concerns over his strike-rate
Saudi Arabia has begun to explore extracting lithium from sea water
Speaking after meeting Lebanese leaders, French foreign minister says there had been "a lot of progress" over the French proposals
The three-shot winner from Japan says he is aiming to become a member of the PGA Tour in the future
Big-hitting Nienaber falters at the finish to settle for secondwhile former Abu Dhabi resident David Horsey takes the third spot at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
The UAE is India's second-largest export destination after the US
Islamabad is seeking a larger long-term agreement with the fund after a current $3 billion standby arrangement expires this month
Prior to halting operations, WCK had distributed more than 43 million meals in Gaza since October