Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps have become essential tools for staying connected with friends, family, and colleagues, especially in a global city like Dubai. However, due to strict regulations by the UAE government, many popular VoIP apps are blocked. This article will guide you through the VoIP apps that do work in Dubai and how you can use VPNs (like Sahrzad or Aeroshield) to access other restricted services.
Legal VoIP Apps in Dubai
- BOTIM BOTIM is one of the few VoIP apps officially sanctioned in Dubai. It supports voice and video calls and is available on both Android and iOS platforms. To use BOTIM, users need to subscribe to an Internet Calling Plan through local telecom providers like Etisalat, du, or Virgin Mobile.
- C’ME Similar to BOTIM, C’ME is another approved VoIP app that allows high-definition video calls and messaging services. It requires users to have an Internet Calling Plan from Etisalat or du.
- HiU Messenger HiU Messenger offers unlimited voice and video calls along with messaging and media sharing capabilities. This app is also supported by local telecom providers and requires a subscription to their Internet Calling Plans.
- Voico Voico provides voice and video calling services, supporting group chats and multimedia sharing. It’s available for download on Google Play and the Apple App Store, with local telecom providers offering the necessary Internet Calling Plans.
- GoChat Messenger Provided by Etisalat, GoChat Messenger offers voice and video calling, money transfer, bill payments, and food ordering services. Users need to subscribe to a paid package for international calls .
- Zoom Zoom, widely used for business and educational purposes, is not restricted in Dubai. It allows video conferencing and meetings with various features like screen sharing and virtual backgrounds .
- Microsoft Teams Ideal for corporate and academic use, Microsoft Teams supports video calls, file sharing, and team collaboration without any restrictions in Dubai .
- Google Meet Google Meet is another free-to-use app in Dubai, popular for both personal and professional meetings. It supports screen sharing and various background options, making it versatile for different needs .
Using VPNs for VoIP Calls
While the aforementioned apps are approved and work seamlessly in Dubai, many other popular VoIP apps like Skype, WhatsApp, and Facetime are blocked. This is where Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) come into play. A VPN can help you bypass these restrictions by masking your IP address and making it appear as though you’re accessing the internet from another country.
How to Use a VPN:
- Choose a Reliable VPN Service: There are many VPN services available, but not all are effective in the UAE due to stringent government measures. Some of the most recommended VPNs for the UAE include Sahrzad, Aeroshield, Nord.
- Install and Set Up: Download and install the VPN application on your device. Follow the setup instructions provided by the VPN service.
- Connect to a Server Outside the UAE: Open the VPN app and connect to a server located in a country where the VoIP app you want to use is not restricted.
- Access VoIP Apps: Once connected, you can open your preferred VoIP app and make calls as usual.
Important Note: While using a VPN can help you access restricted VoIP services, it is technically illegal in the UAE to use a VPN to circumvent government restrictions. Users should be aware of the legal implications and use VPNs responsibly.
Conclusion
Staying connected in Dubai doesn’t have to be a challenge despite the restrictions on many popular VoIP services. By using approved apps like BOTIM, C’ME, and HiU Messenger, or employing VPNs responsibly, you can ensure seamless communication with your global network. Always stay informed about the local regulations to avoid any legal issues.
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