Saudi Arabia to unblock internet calling apps

Saudi Arabia will lift its ban on internet calling applications on Wednesday, such as Skype, easing restrictions online as the conservative kingdom faces new criticism over censorship.-AFP

Riyadh (AFP) - Saudi Arabia will lift its ban on internet calling applications on Wednesday, authorities said, easing restrictions online as the conservative kingdom faces new criticism over censorship.

Voice and video calling apps such as WhatsApp and Skype will be "widely available to users", a government statement said Tuesday, in a move aimed at improving business confidence as the kingdom transitions into a post-oil era.