To mark the Arab Deaf Week, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has directed telecommunications services providers Etisalat and Du to waive off the monthly subscription fee for online video call applications - BOTIM and C'Me - worth Dh50 for people with impaired hearing so that they can communicate in sign language for free.
Director General of the TRA Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori said that it is vital to provide facilities that can enhance the role of people with determination in the society, while fulfilling their needs. He added that the recent move is part of the UAE Vision 2021 that aims at improving the quality of life of all people and boost their happiness.
Taking to Twitter to make the announcement, TRA has collaborated with Etisalat and du to offer free subscription for audio-visual applications - however did not mention the validity period for the free service.
CEO of Etisalat Group Eng. Saleh Abdullah Al Abdooli said the organisation is honoured to contribute to such a noble initiative, which emphasises the role Etisalat plays to stand by the special needs people. He added communicating in sign language is a right that makes their lives more natural.
Al Abdooli said the initiative follows a lot of other steps Etisalat has suggested, adding that the company has provided offers of 50 per cent discount for different bundles to people with determination.