UAE is all set to usher in the era of internet telephony with the regulator, the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA) likely to take decision for rolling out VoIP services through country's leading telecom operators-Etisalat and du. The service would enable people in the region to make calls on mobile and dedicated phones through PC using broadband internet connection.

The telecom regulator is also likely to take final decision on starting Mobile Number Portability (MNP), the services which enables users to retain same number despite switching the telecom service provider.

The statement from the media department of TRA, states, "The TRA is in the process of implementing a new VoIP policy. It is expected that this policy will be published soon, and will be made available on the TRA website. Pursuant to this new policy, customers may obtain VoIP services only through the licensees, Etisalat and du."

The regulator said that VoIP will provide more flexibility to users by allowing companies to integrate voice with other compatible IT components. It would also bring cost effectiveness for the IP enabled equipment.