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TDRA

Also known as: Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority

Definition

TDRA, the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, is the UAE federal regulator whose FAQ sets the rules for marketing text messages: prior explicit consent, a free way to unsubscribe, and sending only between 7 am and 9 pm UAE time.

As of November 2026, TDRA's published FAQ covers text messages, and the rules are specific: no marketing messages without prior explicit consent, a free unsubscribe option, and a sending window of 7 am to 9 pm UAE time. The FAQ also says recipients can block senders through 7726, and that providers apply penalties to violators, but it gives no fine amount, so be wary of vendor blogs that quote one.

Its published answer is about text messages. For WhatsApp, email and calls, check the specific rule rather than assuming the SMS rules carry over. Marketing calls have a different window: Clyde & Co reported in July 2024 that Cabinet resolutions effective from 27 August 2024 allow marketing calls only from 9 am to 6 pm, with limits on repeat calls and a Do Not Call Register.

Build the rules into the system: block sends outside 7 am to 9 pm, store consent with a timestamp and the wording shown, and put an unsubscribe route in every message. Confirm the current position with TDRA before acting on it.

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