United Arab Emirates SMS Guide - sms-compliance -

Frequently Asked Questions

Use a reputable SMS API provider like Twilio, Sinch, MessageBird, or Plivo. Ensure your sender ID is registered with the "AD-" prefix and messages comply with UAE regulations.
The character limit is 160 for GSM-7 encoding and 70 for UCS-2 encoding (used for Arabic or special characters). Longer messages are automatically split into segments.
Two-way SMS is not supported due to regulatory reasons. Businesses should consider alternative channels like one-way SMS with clear call-to-actions directing users to web interfaces or apps.
Promotional messages are only permitted between 7:00 AM and 9:00 PM UAE time. Sending outside these hours will result in queuing for delivery during permitted times.
No, sending SMS to landline numbers in the UAE is not possible and will result in failed delivery. The messages will not be logged, and you won't be charged.
Explicit opt-in consent is mandatory before sending marketing SMS. Honoring STOP commands, maintaining opt-out lists, and adhering to content restrictions are crucial for compliance.
Gambling, adult content, political messages, religious content, controlled substances, alcohol, and money lending/loan services are strictly prohibited in SMS content.
Pre-registration is required with a 2-week approval timeline. The sender ID must include the "AD-" prefix and be a maximum of 11 characters, including the prefix. Business documentation is also needed.
Support both Arabic and English, use proper Arabic encoding (UCS-2), consider cultural sensitivities, and adapt content for local customs, including date and time formats.
No, short codes are not currently supported in the UAE for SMS messaging. Long codes are also not supported. Alphanumeric sender IDs are the primary method.
MMS is not directly supported. When sending an MMS, it's converted to an SMS containing a URL link to the media content.
Several providers offer SMS APIs for UAE, including Twilio, Sinch, MessageBird, and Plivo. Each has different features and code examples are available.
URLs must be pre-approved, WhatsApp/LINE links are blocked, phone numbers within messages are often filtered, URL shorteners are generally blocked, and certain keywords are filtered.
Collect written or electronic opt-in confirmation, maintain detailed records of consent, clearly state message purpose and frequency, provide transparent information about data use, and consider implementing double opt-in.
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