WhatsApp and FaceTime Calls in Dubai and the UAE: What Works

In Dubai and the rest of the UAE, WhatsApp messages work normally but WhatsApp voice and video calls, and FaceTime calls, are generally blocked on UAE networks. Calling apps approved by the UAE regulator, such as Botim, Zoom and Microsoft Teams, do work, and normal phone calls on your UK number always do.

Last checked: 15 October 2026. The UAE's Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) reviews its list of approved apps from time to time. Check the TDRA website and GOV.UK UAE travel advice before you travel.

WhatsApp and FaceTime in Dubai: the short answer

• WhatsApp messages, voice notes, photos and video clips: work.
• WhatsApp voice and video calls: generally blocked on UAE networks and Wi-Fi.
• FaceTime audio and video: generally blocked. iMessage works.
• Approved calling apps: Botim, Microsoft Teams and Zoom are the ones most visitors use.
• Normal calls and texts: work on your UK SIM, charged at your network's roaming rates.

Why VoIP calls are restricted in the UAE

Internet calling is known as VoIP (voice over internet protocol). Under TDRA's rules, only the licensed operators, e& (formerly Etisalat) and du, and apps that TDRA has approved can offer voice calls in the UAE. TDRA has said that using unapproved VoIP services may be an offence and that the licensed operators can block that traffic. In practice they do, which is why a WhatsApp call from your Dubai hotel usually rings and then fails to connect.

The restriction applies to the network, not just mobile SIMs. Hotel, cafe and airport Wi-Fi in the UAE is provided by the same licensed operators, so it is usually blocked there too.

Which calling apps work in the UAE

TDRA approved a group of apps for remote work and study in 2020, and has added licensed consumer apps since. Based on lists published from TDRA updates and recent traveller reports:

The simplest approach for most families is to agree before you go that video calls home will be on Zoom or Teams. Both are free to download in the UK, and the person at home does not need anything special.

Does a travel eSIM change any of this?

A travel eSIM gives you mobile data in the UAE at a much lower cost than most UK roaming add-ons. It does not change the law. Some travellers notice that apps behave differently on a roaming connection than on hotel Wi-Fi, because roaming data can be routed outside the country. We do not recommend relying on that: TDRA's position is that only licensed or approved calling services should be used in the UAE, so plan to use Botim, Zoom, Teams or normal calls.

We also do not advise using a VPN to get around the call block. The UAE has strict laws on misusing VPNs, and GOV.UK reminds visitors that UAE laws on online activity are tougher than the UK's.

What the eSIM does give you:

• Data from the moment you land at DXB or DWC, for maps, Careem, Uber, the RTA app and booking confirmations.
• WhatsApp messages and voice notes to family, and approved video calls.
• Your UK SIM stays active for calls and bank texts. Our guide on keeping WhatsApp on your UK number explains the setup.
• No need to buy a local tourist SIM, which requires passport registration.

SimplySIM plans for Dubai and the UAE

Fixed-data plans run on du 5G and unlimited plans on e& (Etisalat) 5G. Prices were checked on 15 October 2026 and can change; the product page shows the current price.

For a week of winter sun in Dubai, 5GB is plenty for maps, taxis and messaging. If you stream or share your connection with family, the unlimited plans are simpler. See every option on our UAE eSIM page.

Calling UK numbers from Dubai

If someone at home does not use Zoom or Teams, a normal phone call is the reliable fallback. Check your UK network's roaming rates for the UAE first, because most UK roaming bundles do not include it and pay-as-you-go calls can be expensive. Some UK networks sell a daily or weekly roaming add-on for the UAE that includes minutes.

Another option is to call UK landlines and mobiles from an approved app with calling credit, such as Botim, using your eSIM data. Compare the cost with your network's roaming add-on before you travel, and remember that incoming calls to your UK number while roaming may also be charged.

Winter sun in Dubai: other phone tips

• Download Zoom or Teams in the UK. Some app stores show different apps in different countries, so install everything before you fly.
• Expect to be asked for a number. Taxi and delivery apps may send a text code; your UK number works if your UK SIM is switched on.
• Watch your UK roaming. The UAE is outside any UK network's free European roaming. Keep data roaming switched off on your UK line and use the eSIM for data. Our dual SIM settings guide shows how.
• Respect local laws online. Posting photos of other people without consent, or content that criticises the UAE, can lead to prosecution. GOV.UK covers this in its local laws section.
• Multi-country trips. Going on to Oman or Qatar? A regional plan such as our Middle East 5GB eSIM covers several countries on one eSIM; check the coverage list on the product page for each country on your route.

Checklist before you fly to Dubai

• Check your phone supports eSIM and is network unlocked on our device compatibility page.
• Install your UAE eSIM at home and turn it on when you land.
• Install Zoom, Teams or Botim before you leave, and tell family which one you will use.
• Turn off data roaming on your UK line.
• Read our wider guide to internet rules by country if Dubai is part of a longer trip.

FAQs

Can I make WhatsApp calls in Dubai?

Generally no. WhatsApp voice and video calls are blocked on UAE networks, including hotel Wi-Fi. WhatsApp messages and voice notes work normally.

Does FaceTime work in the UAE?

FaceTime audio and video calls are generally blocked. iMessage works. Use Zoom, Teams or Botim for video calls home.

Is Botim free?

The app is free to download, but recent reports say calling features need a paid plan through e& or du. Zoom and Teams are free alternatives that work in the UAE.

Is it legal to use a VPN in Dubai?

The UAE has strict laws against using VPNs to commit offences or reach blocked services. We do not recommend using one to make blocked calls.

Will my UK phone work in Dubai?

Yes. UK phones work on UAE networks, and there is no phone registration requirement for visitors. Calls on your UK SIM are charged at your network's roaming rates.