Voice over Internet Protocol (V oIP) services are subject to strict limitations in the United
Arab Emirates, which affects the availability of some well-known apps like WhatsApp and
Skype. Despite these limitations, both locals and tourists are permitted to utilise a variety of
free video calling applications. Ten free video calling apps that are accessible in the United
Arab Emirates are examined here.
Why are the calling applications WhatsApp and Skype prohibited in the United Arab Emirates?
Due to regulatory rules intended to safeguard national security and preserve local
telecommunications income, the UAE has banned a number of V oIP services, including
Skype and WhatsApp. Restricting services that violate local regulations is one way that the
Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) controls and
keeps an eye on internet usage. The security of the communications infrastructure and the
preservation of telecom service revenue are guaranteed by this legislation.
What video calling apps are allowed in the UAE?
Data security concerns are at the heart of many V oIP call-related worries in the United Arab
Emirates. Because of this, a variety of smaller companies have developed free video call apps
for the UAE, and bigger companies like Google, Skype, Zoom, and Microsoft have also made
V oIP calls possible in the UAE. These apps are all legitimate, and many of them make it clear
that the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has
given them approval. This is a list of free video call apps that are legal in the United Arab
Emirates. Please note that there is no specific sequence in which the apps are ranked.
1-Botim
One of the most popular V oIP services in the United Arab Emirates is Botim. It is authorised
by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) and
provides high-quality voice and video calls. Botim ensures widespread accessibility by being
compatible with both iOS and Android smartphones. In addition to video conferences, it
facilitates file sharing, group chats, and even methods for locals to submit insurance claims.
Key Features:
- High-quality video and voice calls Support for group chats The ability to share files
2-C’Me
Another video calling software that has been approved by TDRA and strives to offer a
smooth communication experience is C’Me. However, our own evaluation states that “the
majority have pretty much given up on the app because it has become so notorious for
dropped calls and poor call quality.”
3-HiU Messenger
A less well-known app in the United Arab Emirates, HiU Messenger provides free and
authorised phone and video calling services. Even at lesser bandwidths, this software is
renowned for its seamless operation and little connection outages. Similar in appearance to
WhatsApp, HiU Messenger also provides capabilities like multimedia sharing and instant
messaging.
Key Features:
- Effortless operation at low bandwidths
- Multimedia sharing and instant messaging
- Very few connection failures
4-Zoom
Zoom is frequently used in the United Arab Emirates and gained widespread recognition
during the pandemic. Zoom is great for one-on-one video calls, even though it’s most
recognised for its video conferencing features. Unlimited one-on-one and group meetings
lasting up to forty minutes are permitted with the free version.
Key Features:
- Unlimited individual consultations
- Up to forty minutes of group meetings (free version)
- Screen recording and sharing features
5-Microsoft Teams
With powerful V oIP and video calling capabilities, Microsoft Teams is a complete
collaboration solution. Teams is a popular tool in business environments, but it may also be
used for personal purposes. Along with collaborative features like file sharing and connection
with other Microsoft Office products, the app offers high-quality voice and video chats.
Key Features:
- Excellent audio and video calls
- Tools for collaboration
- Connectivity to Microsoft Office applications
What is the best free audio calling app in the
UAE?
It everything boils down to personal taste. The necessity for a specific audio calling software
is decreasing, and there are plenty of excellent audio call providers available. Most of the
choices mentioned above may be utilised without video. In any call, users can simply choose
to store their data and turn off the video.
Best free video calling apps in the UAE?
There isn’t much of a choice among the top international apps, such Zoom, Teams, or Google
Meet, which all provide great services. Nonetheless, local apps like GoChat and Botim
provide services that UAE citizens would find helpful. The decision thus boils down to
personal taste.
Is it all free?
Even though the programs themselves—or at least their basic versions—are free, you will
still need to buy an Internet calling plan (ICP) from Virgin Mobile, Etisalat, and Du. The
prices of these are frequently very similar.
ICPs for mobile customers are available from Etisalat and Du for AED 50 per month
including V AT. You will be able to use the authorised V oIP programs as a result. However,
your current data bundle will be reduced by the amount of data used during calls. Only
prepaid customers can purchase a daily package, which costs AED5 for a 24-hour period and
includes 1 GB of data that can be used for both voice and video conversations. By signing up
for a bundle that costs AED 100 plus taxes each month, you can use these apps over your
own home Wi-Fi. This bundle has the benefit of supporting an unlimited number of
network-connected mobile devices.