Maintaining connectivity via WhatsApp in the UAE is not as seamless as desired. This is due to the imposed VOIP restrictions. Although messaging remains accessible, the prohibition extends to video and voice calls. This limitation proves frustrating for residents, tourists, and businesses alike.
But don’t worry! Some free and paid communication apps are available, offering robust features to keep you connected with your loved ones. While update you about the latest news, fun events, and more!
In this guide, we will talk about the WhatsApp ban and its impact on communication and discuss a few alternative communication apps.
UAE’s Restrictions On Whatsapp And Other VOIP Services
The UAE restricts the popular messaging app WhatsApp. They also restrict Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) services like Skype and Viber. They do this to safeguard the revenue of local telecommunication companies. This means users in the United Arab Emirates cannot make voice or video calls on WhatsApp.
The UAE’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) banned WhatsApp calls due to encryption issues. They gave hints of lifting the ban in 2019. As a result, users had to find other ways to communicate. They sought alternative solutions to stay connected amidst the authorities’ constraints.
The Legality Of Whatsapp Calls In The UAE
The legality of WhatsApp calls in the United Arab Emirates sparks debate and scrutiny. The government has imposed restrictions on Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, including WhatsApp calls, due to concerns over national security and regulatory control. While you can text via WhatsApp, making voice and video calls within the app is not sanctioned.
Moreover, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) in the UAE oversees all communication services, including VoIP apps like WhatsApp. The TRA authorizes licensed telecom operators to offer voice-calling services. However, any unauthorized VoIP services are deemed illegal.
Two prominent telecommunication services operating in the UAE are Etisalat and DU.
Etisalat:
Etisalat is a leading telecom operator in the UAE and the Middle East. It provides various services like mobile and fixed-line phones, internet, and TV. As a government-owned entity, it dominates the UAE’s telecom market.
DU:
DU is another telecommunications operator. It provides various services like Etisalat. These include mobile and fixed-line telephony, internet, and television services. Moreover, it operates as a listed company and competes with Etisalat in the UAE market.
Reasons And Implications: Ban On WhatsApp Calls
There are several reasons for the ban on WhatsApp calls in the UAE:
- National Security Concerns:
The UAE government wants to ensure that the communication channels are secure. This will prevent any potential security threats.
- Revenue Protection:
Etisalat and DU pay a high fee for providing voice-calling services. Allowing free WhatsApp calls could harm their business. Hence, the ban safeguards their revenue.
- Regulatory Control:
Limiting VoIP services and WhatsApp calls can help the UAE government better regulate telecommunications more effectively. Additionally, it ensures compliance with local laws and standards.
- Cultural And Social Concerns:
Some officials are concerned that allowing unrestricted VoIP services could impact local culture and social norms. Thus, regulating these services helps preserve traditional communication methods and societal values.
- Economic Considerations:
Promoting licensed telecommunication services supports local businesses and contributes to the UAE’s economy.
The Impact Of Banned Whatsapp Calls In the UAE
The WhatsApp ban in the UAE has had a profound impact on everyone in different ways. This includes residents, visitors, and businesses. Let’s take a closer look at how each group deals with and adapts to the limitations imposed by this ban.
Expats Struggle With Costlier Connections
For residents, especially expatriates, WhatsApp is crucial. It helps them stay in touch with loved ones. But, they have to resort to more expensive methods to communicate worldwide. They can’t use WhatsApp calls. This can be challenging.
Communication Challenges For Tourists
Tourists and travelers visiting the UAE might not know about the ban until they try to make a call. This sudden restriction can disrupt their plans and make it hard to keep in touch with family back home. Visitors need to know about this and look for other ways to communicate.
Business Setback
Businesses in the UAE, rely on WhatsApp for internal communication and customer service. Its absence leads to decreased productivity and delays in responding to customer inquiries. Moreover, it impacts international collaborations. This could tarnish the UAE’s status as a business hub. It could also influence investment decisions.
Can I Use a VPN to access WhatsApp?
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are legal in the UAE for some specific institutes, companies, and banks, but using them to access WhatsApp or other apps is a big NO. If caught, you could face big fines – up to Dh2 million – or jail.
Many UAE people used Virtual Private Network apps in 2020, spending over Dh14 million, but it’s risky. It’s against the UAE law. So, play it safe: stick to using VPNs the right way, and avoid trouble in the UAE.
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Alternatives Of WhatsApp in The UAE
If you can’t talk to your friends and family because WhatsApp is banned in the UAE. There are other apps you can use for calling and staying in touch with your loved ones. Switching to these apps is easy: just tell your friends, download the app, sign up or log in, and start calling. Below are a few apps you can use:
GoChat Messenger
GoChat Messenger is Etisalat’s new app for free voice and video calls. Additionally, it offers handy features like booking PCR tests and home cleaning services. All you need to do is download the app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store, enter your phone number, and you’re ready to go.
You can chat with text, send voice messages, or make clear video calls, all for free anywhere in the world. Moreover, you can stay updated with trending news and find fun events nearby. It’s easy to use and perfect for anyone looking for a convenient way to stay connected.
Zoom
You can use Zoom for video calls, voice calls, and meetings. Zoom is an app that helps you talk to people online. You can install it on your phone and talk to your boss or family, even if they’re not in UAE.
It’s easy to use, whether you’re walking around the city or staying in your hotel room. And if you want, you can make your background blurry during video calls to look more professional. Stay connected with Zoom wherever you are in the UAE.
Google Hangouts
Google Hangouts is a handy tool for making video calls, voice calls, and having meetings. It was part of Google+ but became its own app in 2013. You can use it to talk with friends across different time zones or even do a quick presentation from a café. And just like Zoom, you can change your background.
It’s easy to use for both work and chatting with friends, and it works on different devices. Whether you’re talking with coworkers or catching up with buddies, Google Hangouts is there for you.
Facebook Messenger
When WhatsApp isn’t working, you can turn to Facebook Messenger to stay connected with friends. With Messenger, which most people already have if they use Facebook, you can easily send messages to anyone on your friend list. It’s simple to use – just select a contact and type your message.
Plus, Messenger works on smartphones, tablets, and computers, so you can chat from anywhere.
Telegram
Telegram is a messaging app that lets you chat and call your friends worldwide. It’s a great choice, especially when WhatsApp calls are banned in the UAE because its main office is in Dubai. Telegram keeps your chats safe with special codes, and it’s easy to use with features like group chats and calls.
So, whether you need a backup for WhatsApp or just want a safe way to stay in touch, Telegram has you covered, no matter where you are.
Voico App
Voico app is the ultimate solution for high-quality video calling on your Android or iPhone. With Voico, you can choose to talk with your voice or see each other via video calls. You can chat with your friends and family no matter where they are, even when WhatsApp isn’t working.
Voico has clear sound and good video, so you’ll enjoy talking. It’s easy to use, too – just tap to make a call. Stay in touch without any interruptions with Voico app. Download it now and talk to your loved ones whenever you want.
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is a helpful tool for talking with your work friends, even when you’re in Dubai. It lets you chat, do video calls, and keep your important files in one place, all for free! It’s a great way to stay in touch and get work done, no matter where you are in the city.
Exploring Some Paid Communication Apps
The two approved options are BOTIM and C’ME. You need to pay a monthly subscription to use BOTIM. It costs 50 AED ($13.6) for mobile users and 100 AED ($27.2) for home users. You can subscribe through Etisalat or DU. C’ME, developed by Etisalat, is another option. It also requires a subscription and has similar pricing to BOTIM. These alternatives don’t have all the same features as WhatsApp. However, they are still good options for communication in the UAE.
Conclusion
In short, the WhatsApp call ban in the UAE is causing trouble for people living there, visitors, and businesses. Even though it’s meant to protect certain things, it makes communication harder. Expats have to spend more to call home, tourists can’t easily talk to family, and businesses find it harder to communicate.
But there are free apps like Zoom, Google Hangouts, Facebook Messenger, and more that can help. Also, there are some approved apps like BOTIM and C’ME, but they might cost money. These options are the best ways to stay connected despite the WhatsApp ban, making things a bit easier.
FAQs
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What happens when you use WhatsApp in Dubai?
Using WhatsApp in the UAE has restrictions. You can’t make calls, but texting and sharing videos or audio messages still work. Government regulations limit the calling features. Messaging is possible, but calls are not allowed in Dubai using WhatsApp.
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Is WhatsApp banned in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi bans WhatsApp calls and video calls due to VoIP regulations. This is because encryption clashes with government monitoring. Messaging is still available. Users need to find alternative ways to stay connected.
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Can I use a VPN to make WhatsApp calls?
No, you cannot use a VPN to make WhatsApp calls in the UAE. The country has banned voice and video calls within the app. Bypassing the restriction can lead to paying fines of up to Dh 2 million.
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Does UAE listen in on calls?
Many UAE businesses legally monitor calls for risk management, training, or quality control. They do this to maintain service standards and comply with regulations.
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Why can’t I use WhatsApp in Dubai?
WhatsApp is not allowed in Dubai because of some security reasons and the government wants to protect the money that telecom companies make. They stopped apps like WhatsApp so that people keep using traditional phone services, which makes more money for these companies.
