If you are visiting the UAE, you might notice that it’s almost impossible to make video calls using WhatsApp or even Facetime.
This is due to local regulations and restrictions to such and similar apps as the UAE government has set strict rules on the use of these applications for video calls.
If you are planning to tour Dubai or move there as a freelancer, ensure you are aware of some of the restricted applications and services.
Related: The Dubai Freelance Visa
In this article, I will outline some of the easiest and best alternatives to WhatsApp and Facetime while in Dubai or the larger UAE.
7 Alternative Apps to WhatsApp in Dubai:
- Botim
Botim is a messaging app that allows one to chat with friends and in a group. It also allows one to have video calls. Botim is owned by Astra Tech, a company owned by an Emirati businessman. Some say this is one of the reasons why it has been approved by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). With that said, it is a great alternative to WhatsApp and Telegram and offers high-quality video calls. - GoChat Messanger
This communication app is owned by Etisalat, the largest telco company in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Apart from free video calls, the app allows one to make international money transfers, bill payments and more. You only need a mobile number to register. - Telegram
Telegram is headquartered in Dubai making it easier to use it as the infrastructure is based there. Telegram has a “Secret Chats” with end-to-end encryption allowing your chats to be private. - Comera
This is another alternative that is based in Abu Dhabi. According to their website, calls made through Comera are secured by an end-to-end encryption feature, which ensures that no third party gets access to it. Talk freely. Comera doesn’t store any messages from your end, and they stay between you and the recipient. Once the messages are delivered, they are erased from our servers. - Google Meet
Google Meet is probably one of the easiest-to-use apps on this list. Almost everybody who has a smartphone has a Google account. And that’s all you need, a Google account and the Google Meet app. - Zoom
This is similar to Google Meet. You need to open an account with them to be able to set and schedule a video call. Enjoy clear audio and visuals with Zoom. It has a free plan as well as paid plans depending on the features you want to have. - Microsoft Team
Teams has features such as video calls, chat, and file sharing. It’s especially useful for work, integrating seamlessly with other Microsoft apps.
As much as using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) may seem like a nice hack, it is highly discouraged as this may bring legal issues that may have negative repercussions, especially if you are a freelancer or foreigner.
