UAE Networks Ready for MNP Launch Next Week:

Both of the UAE's mobile networks, Etisalat and Du, are ready to launch the Mobile Number Portability Service through the opening of a central clearing house.

The telecoms regulator, the TRA gave both operators a deadline to prepare their commercial offerings and sales channels to start with the actual transfer for subscribers' starting Monday, December 30, 2013.

Currently, the UAE has a mobile phone penetration rate of 181% and a smartphone penetration rate of 73.8%

The regulator said that there is no doubt that the availability of MNP will enhance competition in the local telecommunications market immediately.

UAE Networks Block BlackBerry's BBM Channels Service:

Both of the UAE's mobile networks have reportedly blocked the use of BlackBerry's new BBM Channels on smartphones, although the service is still available in the country via websites.

BlackBerry itself said that it is working with the regulator to unblock the service.

One of the two networks, Du said the service was no longer available: "In accordance with the internet management policy issued by the TRA to regulate internet content that is not in line with moral, social and cultural values that the UAE stands for, the BBM Channel application is unavailable to du customers until further notice."

The regulator has not issued any public comment, although mobile mobile networks say that the block was at its instigation.

"We are working with our partners in the UAE to ensure their customers are able to enjoy the premier messaging experience of BBM and we will continue to work together to resolve any issues preventing people from using BBM Channels," BlackBerry said.