The matchmaking mobile app Tinder has reportedly been blocked by one of the UAE’s telco providers.

Tinder users in the UAE have complained that they are unable to operate the app properly when trying to access it on the Etisalat network.

Media reports in the UAE have suggested that users can no longer see photos when they log onto Tinder on the Etisalat network.

According to 7Days newspaper, when accessing the website GoTinder.com via an Etisalat connection, the webpage is redirected to a blocked page message: “Access to this site is currently blocked. The site falls under the Prohibited Content Categories of the UAE’s Internet Access Management Policy.”

According to the list of Prohibited Content Categories in the UAE, dating internet content is banned.

“This category includes Internet Content that provides online dating or matchmaking, which contradicts with the ethics and morals of the UAE. Exemptions: Chatting services, chatting groups, social networking and forums.”

Subscribers to the du network, however, do not appear to have the same problem using the app and viewing pictures.

Tinder has proven hugely popular since it was launched in late 2012. Using geolocation, users can view profiles of people within a 100km radius. By swiping right or left, users can tell the app if they are interested in communicating with the person or not and, if there’s a mutual approval, the app allows the people to message each other.