How to Call Without a VPN in the UAE: What Works and Why

To call without a VPN in the UAE, use a service that works on UAE networks: a licensed internet calling app such as Botim with an e& or du calling plan, your operator's regular or Wi-Fi Calling, a meeting platform such as Zoom, or an app whose calls work in the UAE without a VPN, such as Twice. WhatsApp and FaceTime voice and video calls are generally not available on UAE networks, while their text messaging works normally.

This guide explains why some calls do not connect, compares the options that work, and shows how to call the people who matter to you with Twice, even if they do not have the app yet.

Why don't WhatsApp and FaceTime calls work in the UAE?

Internet voice and video calling (VoIP) is a regulated telecom service in the UAE. The regulator is the TDRA, the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, and its policy is that internet calling services are offered through the licensed operators, e& and du. Apps that do not go through this framework generally cannot place calls on UAE networks.

• WhatsApp: messages, photos and voice notes work; voice and video calls generally do not connect.
• FaceTime: audio and video calls are generally not available in the UAE.
• Other consumer apps (Messenger, Telegram, Skype and similar): calls may be restricted or unreliable.
• Availability can change over time: check the official UAE government portal for current telecom guidance.

Should you use a VPN to make calls in the UAE?

You do not need one. UAE cybercrime law penalizes using a VPN or a false IP address to commit or conceal an offence, and in practice VPN calls are often unstable: they drop, lag and drain your battery. A calling service that already works on UAE networks is simpler and more reliable.

Which calling options work in the UAE without a VPN?

Licensed internet calling apps (Botim)

Botim is the best-known internet calling app in the UAE. On UAE networks, its calls generally require an internet calling plan, a paid monthly add-on sold by e& and du. Check your operator for current prices and conditions.

Your operator's calls and Wi-Fi Calling

Regular mobile calls always work. e& and du also support Wi-Fi Calling on compatible phones, which helps indoors when the signal is weak. International calls are billed at the rates of your plan.

Video meeting platforms (Zoom, Microsoft Teams)

Meeting platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams generally work in the UAE. They are built for scheduled meetings, so they are less convenient for a quick call to a friend or a family member.

Twice

Twice is a free messaging app whose voice and video calls work in the UAE without a VPN, on Wi-Fi and on mobile data. You can also call someone who does not have Twice yet: send them a call link and they join from their browser. Twice also lets you see the people around you and share a digital business card, all in the same app.

How do the options compare?

• WhatsApp or FaceTime calls: generally not available on UAE networks; messaging works.
• VPN with WhatsApp: unreliable, and VPN misuse is penalized under UAE cybercrime law.
• Botim with an operator calling plan: works, paid monthly add-on.
• Operator calls and Wi-Fi Calling: always work, international calls billed at your plan rates.
• Zoom or Microsoft Teams: work, designed for meetings rather than everyday calls.
• Twice: free app, voice and video calls work without a VPN, call links for people who do not have the app.

How do you call someone with Twice?

1. Download Twice from the App Store or Google Play via the download page.
2. Sign up and create your profile.
3. Open a conversation and tap the voice or video call button.
4. Calling someone who does not have Twice? Send them a call link: they join from their browser, no install needed.

Looking specifically for video calls? Read our guide to FaceTime alternatives in Dubai. Choosing a messaging app? See how to choose the best messaging app in the UAE.

How can you get good call quality in the UAE?

• Use Wi-Fi when it is available and stable; otherwise 4G or 5G mobile data works well.
• If a call is choppy, switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
• Keep the app updated.
• Remember that the person you call also needs a stable connection.
• Use earphones to avoid echo on video calls.

Frequently asked questions