UAE Demands Morocco Pay a Staggering $640 Million Fine

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | November 18th, 2024 —The United Arab Emirates has demanded that the Kingdom of Morocco pay a hefty financial penalty amounting to 2.3 billion dirhams (approximately $640 million) after a ruling by Morocco’s Court of Appeal.

Sources from Dzair Tube confirmed that the UAE’s telecommunications giant, Etisalat Group (E&), announced that the Court of Appeal in Casablanca had rejected an appeal filed by Maroc Telecom, one of Etisalat’s subsidiaries in Morocco, which is 53% owned by the UAE conglomerate. The court upheld the previous judgment issued by the Commercial Court in Rabat, which ordered Maroc Telecom to pay the substantial fine to the Moroccan telecommunications operator Wana, citing violations of fair competition practices.

This development raises significant questions about the evolving dynamics between the United Arab Emirates and Morocco, two countries that have historically enjoyed close diplomatic and economic relations. The imposition of such a heavy financial penalty signals a potential shift in bilateral ties, especially considering the previously harmonious cooperation in various sectors, including telecommunications. This move could suggest deeper issues within the telecom industry or broader geopolitical tensions.

About Dzair Tube Media Group

Dzair Tube has firmly positioned itself as a leading force in Algerian digital journalism, delivering a rich and diverse array of content. Available in Arabic, French, and English, Dzair Tube captivates a broad audience, drawing over half a million daily clicks.

The platform’s excellence was notably recognized with the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This accolade underscores Dzair Tube’s steadfast commitment to the highest journalistic standards.

Dzair Tube’s substantial online footprint includes 350,000 YouTube subscribers, over six million followers across various Facebook pages, and 450,000 Instagram followers. The digital channel serves as a nexus for a wide range of programming, spanning news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a diverse audience.

Boasting cutting-edge studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has attracted a significant viewership with its varied programs. It facilitates interactive discussions with key figures from various sectors, promoting public discourse and engagement. Beyond news, Dzair Tube excels in producing marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership shows.

The print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further attests to the platform’s influence, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.

Awarded the Media Leadership Award by the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the Algerian digital media landscape, maintaining its position of influence and impact. Additionally, Dzair Tube’s prominence in Algeria’s media scene was celebrated at the ninth edition of the “Hilals of the Television” competition, solidifying its status as a media leader.

Stay Connected with Dzair Tube