How to Unblock WhatsApp Calls in UAE
Going to the UAE? Make sure to have another VoIP app on your phone, since you can only use WhatsApp’s messaging feature and can’t call in the UAE. Just like any other government UAE’s government has internet rules. In this blog, you will learn how to easily unblock WhatsApp calls in the UAE and which substitutes for WhatsApp people use for internet calling. Also, learn about the simple ways that will help you use WhatsApp in the UAE. Moreover, know about the best VPN for the UAE and how you can select one for your needs.
WhatsApp blocked in the UAE?
In UAE WhatsApp Audio and video calling features are blcoked other than that you use the app for messaging purposes. However, to call over the internet, you need to follow some other ways or use other applications.
Note: All the apps that are used in UAE first have to get TRA approval to operate in UAE.
Also Read: How to Recover a Hacked WhatsApp Account
Reasons for the UAE VoIP ban?
The UAE government, not want to control every user’s way of communication online. And for that, they have created rules that must be abided by the voice, video calling services online. UAE blocked policies can be learn from these given factors.
Control over VoIP
The government wants WhatsApp to get permission from the local communication service providers to have easy monitoring. However, WhatsApp didn’t take the permission and so the UAE government blocked it’s calling features.
Security Risks
WharsaOPP uses end-to-end encryption, and it makes giveebnmnet bodies to monitor users’ communication on this platform. And it can become a security risk for the country as well.
Promote local Services
The government wants to keep local telecom businesses secure, like “Etisalat”, “Du”. As the only generates revenue when people call using the paid service. As WhatsApp provides an internet calling and messaging service for free, people are moving towards this app.
Must Follow UAE Rules
All the communication service providers in the UAE must have to follow the rules of the government regarding where the users’ data is stored, the use of applications, and the handling of private information. Some WhatsApp features don’t align with WhatsApp’s policies, so the UAE’s government blocked them.
How to unblock WhatsApp calls UAE?
You can either access WhatsApp calls in Dubai, or you can use the subtitles apps for it. Here is the explanation for each of the WhatsApp alternative platforms used in the UAE.
By Using the VPN
One of the easiest ways is you use a VPN to unblock WhatsApp calls UAE. The VPN will bypass all the restrictions, but first, you must get the right VPN service. Since many free services can steal your personal data, which can cause you harm in the future, moreover, they can also share your data with agencies.
Selecting the Right VPN Service for UAE
It’s necessary to get the right and secure VPN service that won’t steal your data and provide an excellent service. Some factors are here and enough to find you the best VPN service:
Security & Privacy: The major and first concern while selecting a VPN service is the security and Privacy. Check how safe the app is to use.
Encryption: Know about the encryption protocols and get the VPN that uses the top encryption protocol of 256-AES AES encryption.
No Data storing: Get the VPN that has clear and straightforward policies of not storing users’ data.
More Security: Must have other security features like split tunneling or kill switches, which keep non-VPN traffic secure even if you lose VPN connection.
VoIP service: VPN service mustn’t be only for messaging, but should unblock WhatsApp calls UAE.
These factors will help you get the right VPN soon, and will help you access WhatsApp calls in Dubai for free.
VPN for WhatsApp calling UAE – iProVPN
As all the factors mentioned above will help you get the best VPN for UAE, and one of the top VPN you can rely on is iProVPN. It has all the best features of a VPN that let you access WhatsApp in the UAE.
Also Read: Is WhatsApp Safe to Use? The Security Measures and Concerns
Connect to iProVPN to access WhatsApp calls Dubai
If you are using the iProVPN service, here is how to connect to your device with VPN;
- Visit the iProVPN site.
- Go to the pricing page to buy the subscription.
- Install the iProVPN app from the Google Play and Apple Store.
- Add in credentials or create your account from the beginning.
- Connect with a VPN server where WhatsApp works fine.
- Now you can able to voice or video calls efficiently in Dubai.
WhatsApp Alternatives in the UAE
Users in the UAE use their local telecom networks for calling, which are paid services, and help in the economy. Furthermore, there are UAE-owned licensed VoIP apps that users prefer in the UAE. Here is the list of the apps that you can use as a substitute for WhatsApp.
1. BOTIM
One of the most used and popular apps in the UAE, and a great alternative to WhatsApp, moreover government has confidence in the app and licensed it. With BOTIM, you can easily call within the UAE or internationally. Moreover, it has many more features other than just communicating with others; there’s it has its own digital wallet, and you can pay your bills and send money easily without switching to another online banking app.
Is BOTIM free?
It comes with a subscription, depending on the package, which gets through the local telecom networks like Etisalat or DU.
Pros OF BOTIM
- Has a within the BOTIM wallet.
- Offers encrypted voice and video calls.
- An AI bot is integrated to use as an assistant on the app.
Cons Of BOTIM
- The BOTIM wallet may delay money transfers.
- Requires a stronger internet for smooth calling.
- Limitless internet calls require a subscription.
2. Microsoft Teams
One of the best WhatsApp alternatives you can find in the UAE is Microsoft Teams. You can use it to contact your family, and perfect for managing your meetings professionally; you can discuss anything confidential on MS Teams as this platform is secure and encrypted. You can share documents with others, create a group easily, and talk with everyone. Moreover, it can also generate AI-based summaries.
Is MS Teams Paid?
Microsoft Teams offers multiple subscription packages, from the free version to Business and Enterprise versions. Team essential plan for 22 AED users/month and Business plan starting from 26.50 AED users/month.
Pros of MS Teams
- Can use more MS tools on Teams.
- Has an application for Android and iOS.
- Increase productivity with multiple features.
Cons of MS Teams
- Sometimes glitches might come.
- New users take time to explore features.
- Video may lag if there’s no speedy internet.
3. GoChat
A free app from the UAE’s telecom network Etisalat, which gained popularity in the country quickly. The app is trusted by many users. Just like BOTIM, you can also transfer money via GoChat; moreover, it allows you to pay bills and send money to international countries. It’s a good alternative platform for WhatsApp if you are looking to unblock WhatsApp calls UAE, also you can book events through GoChat.
Is GoChat Paid?
GoChat is a free VoIP application in the UAE, having a good rating and trusted by millions.
Pros of GoChat
- Complete free app for UAE users.
- Easy to use with no complexities.
- Works well on phones and browsers.
Cons of GoChat
- Lagging in voice and video calls.
- Sometimes minor bugs can show up.
- Call notifications let the screen light up.
4. Zoom
Zoom is a go to platform, when you are working remotely as a freelancer or working for an intrenation company. It is widely use after MS Teams in UAe, since it provides the smooth video calling features and others. In the paid Zoom version, you can get more features, like adding hundreds of participants to a meeting.
Is Zoom Paid?
Yes, it has a paid and free version. Get Pro Zoom for AED 60/month, Business for AED 110/month.
Pros of ZOOM
- Whiteboard to explain ideas.
- Have an easy-to-use layout.
- Different tools to make you productive.
Cons of Zoom
- Security issue in video joining.
- The free plan allows 40 minutes of meeting time only.
- Uses high bandwidth for calling with high quality.
5. HiU Messenger
HiU Messenger allows you to do VoIP communication in the UAE. Moreover It’s a good alternative VoIP platform if you are looking to unblock WhatsApp calls. This platform is TRA-approved, so there is no doubt about its legality. HiU Messenger lets you make high-quality video calls, and you can even continue your video or audio call in crowded areas.
Is HiU Messenger Paid?
To activate the service, you need to subscribe via the local telecom networks of the UAE.
Pros of HiU
- Secure VoIP platform in the UAE.
- Easy file, video, and sticker sharing.
- Group call and add up to 500 participants.
Cons if HiU
- Required Internet calling Plan.
- Do not work without a stable internet.
- Basic features than competitive VoIP apps.
6. C’Me
C’me is another option for WhatsApp to use in the UAE. The platform is simple to use with easy-to-use features. It is less popular from the platforms that are discussed above, however it’s a reliable VoIP app if you are searching for one in the UAE. The best thing it works over slow networks as well, and your calls won’t hang in between. The app does not have extra features that make it easy to use.
Is C’Me paid?
- Get the subscription form Etisalat local telecom network.
Pros of C’Me
- Easy locations, photo sharing.
- Works well on both Android and Ios.
- Provides secure encryption of data.
Cons of C’Me
- Works only for Etisalat users.
- Have fewer and basic features.
- Subscription as per Etisalat.
Quick Summary – WhatsApp Alternatives For UAE
Here is the summary of all the platforms discussed above in detail:
Features |
BOTIM |
MS Teams |
GoChat |
Zoom |
HiU Messenger |
C’Me |
| TRA Approval | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| More Features | Texts, Video/Audio call, built-in wallet | Messages, file sharing, meetings | Payments, messaging, shopping | Call recording, Screen sharing | Calling, messages | Basic calling and messages |
| Encryption | Encrypted | Uses AES-256-bit encryption | Encrypted | Encrypted | Encrypted | End-to-end encrypted |
| Works Offline | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Level of ease | Simple | Medium | Simple | Medium | Simple | Basic very simple |
Conclusion
If you are from UAE, you can only use the messaging feature of WhatsApp and not the audio, video calling features of WhatsApp in the UAE. There are some alternative WhatsApp platforms that you can use in the UAE, like the famous BOTIM, GoChat, Zoom, and others. All of these services are paid and you have to ghet the subscription from local UAE telecom networks, also always use a secure VPN like iProVPN to unblock WhatsApp calls in the UAE.
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How to Unblock WhatsApp Calls in UAE
- Why are WhatsApp Calls blocked in the UAE?
Free and real-time calling services can some used for planning quick activities in the country, which can be risky, so the UAE government preferred to block the WhatsApp calling features.
- Is WhatsApp blocked in the UAE?
Partially, yes, you can only use the messaging features on WhatsApp except for the Audio and video calling.
- What is TRDA in the UAE?
TRDA (Telecommunication and Digital Government Regulatory Authority) is responsible to check the telecom companies, and checks if the apps have the TRA approval or not.
- How can you call via WhatsApp in Dubai?
To access WhatsApp calls in Dubai, you are required to use a VPN service in the UAE. Connect to the country server where WhatsApp works without any block.
- What is the best VPN for the UAE?
The best VPN for the UAE is iProVPN without any second choice, since it is secure and comes with affordability. It will help you bypass WhatsApp calling features in UAE smoothly.
