How to Use WhatsApp Call in UAE, Dubai in 2025

The UAE blocks most VoIP services, including WhatsApp, but there are still safe and reliable ways to use the app. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to use WhatsApp call in UAE, and which VPNs are the safest and most reliable.

Key takeaways

1. WhatsApp is blocked in the UAE due to strict regulations on VoIP services.
2. A VPN can help you stay connected by unblocking WhatsApp.
3. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are the most reliable VPNs for WhatsApp in the UAE.

Understanding Dubai’s VoIP restrictions and telecom regulations

The UAE has strict VoIP regulations, and only government-approved VoIP services, like Botim or ToTok, are allowed for internet calling in Dubai.

Many travelers use a VPN to make WhatsApp calls in Dubai, but using a VPN to access blocked apps is against the UAE’s local laws and could have legal ramifications.

How to bypass VoIP restrictions and use WhatsApp calling in the UAE, Dubai 

You can use WhatsApp in the UAE by following the steps below. Download and install your VPN before you arrive in the country, as many VPN websites are blocked. While personal use of VPNs is generally tolerated in the UAE, familiarize yourself with local laws to avoid legal repercussions.

1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN for the UAE. I like using ExpressVPN.
2. Install the VPN app before arriving in the country.
3. Connect to a VPN server outside of the UAE, like Oman.
4. Open WhatsApp and start calling.

3 best VPNs for WhatsApp Calling in the UAE

If you are looking for the best VPN for WhatsApp calling, here are the best services for VPN users in the UAE:

1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN reliably works for WhatsApp VoIP calling in the UAE, and I love how every ExpressVPN server is obfuscated, so there’s no need for extra configuration.

Features: Express has a server network of 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, all with built-in obfuscation. Added features include ad and malware blocking, a password manager, tracker blocking, and parental controls.

Speed: With ExpressVPN’s you can expect to hold on to an average of 90% or better of your baseline speed.

Privacy and security: You get the gold standard in privacy and security protection, including a no-logs policy that’s been independently audited over 20 times, military-grade encryption, strong leak protection, and an automatic kill switch that keeps you safe if your VPN connection drops.

Performance: The fast and stable connections mean you won’t have dropped connections or lag while using VoIP services, streaming, gaming, or torrenting.

Streaming: The same geo-spoofing technology that lets you access WhatsApp in the UAE also gives you uninterrupted access to streaming libraries worldwide, including Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and more!

Compatibility: ExpressVPN’s user-friendly apps are compatible with macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux. You can connect between 10-14 devices simultaneously, depending on your plan.

Pricing: The best-priced plan is the 2-year basic for $3.49/month.

2. NordVPN

NordVPN is well-rounded, great for getting around local restrictions on VoIP services, and it’s one of the fastest VPNs available.

Features: Nord has a huge network of 8000+ servers in 118 countries, including obfuscated VPN servers. The basic plan comes with Threat Protection, and the upgraded subscriptions include a password manager, data breach monitoring, and more.

Speed: The speeds on NordVPN are blazing fast, with speed drops as low as 1-5% when using the Nordlynx protocol.

Privacy and security: An independently audited no-logs policy, RAM-only servers, military-grade encryption, leak protection, and an automatic kill switch are in place to keep you safe online.

Performance: With Nord, you can use VoIP services without dropped calls or lag and enjoy smooth streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Streaming: When you’re visiting the UAE, you can also use NordVPN to enjoy your home streaming libraries on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and more without geo-restrictions getting in your way.

Compatibility: Nord has apps for macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.

Pricing: The 2-year basic plan starts at just $3.39/month.

3. Surfshark

The best budget VPN for WhatsApp in the UAE is Surfshark. It works well and comes with unlimited simultaneous connections, so your whole family can stay connected.

Features: Surfshark has over 4,500+ servers in 100 countries, including obfuscated servers. The starter package includes ad blocking, cookie pop-up blocking, rotating IP, and multi-hop. Surfshark One includes extras like anti-virus and data breach alerts.

Speed: Surfshark keeps speed drops below 85% on average, which is fast enough for seamless communication using VoIP services.

Privacy and security: Your VPN connection is secured with military-grade encryption, strong leak protection, a kill switch, and an independently audited no-logs policy.

Performance: Surfshark performs well on everything from VoIP calls to gaming, streaming, and torrenting.

Streaming: You can also use Surfshark to unblock geo-restricted streaming sites like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ so you can enjoy your favorite shows from home while you’re visiting the UAE.

Compatibility: There are Surfshark apps for iOS, macOS, Android, Windows, and Linux devices.

Pricing: Pay as little as $1.99/month by signing up for the 2-year starter subscription.

How I picked the best VPNs for WhatsApp calling

Here’s how I chose the best VPNs for WhatsApp voice and video calling.

• Speed. I conducted speed tests and selected VPNs fast enough for uninterrupted VoIP calling.
• Geo-spoofing. I looked for VPNs with obfuscated servers that can bypass the UAE’s firewalls against WhatsApp.
• Privacy and security. I selected VPNs with strong security features, so no one, including the government, can see what you’re doing online.
• Compatibility. I prioritized VPNs with intuitively designed apps for all major operating systems.

Alternative to WhatsApp calling in the UAE

Travellers can count on these paid alternatives for seamless communication in the UAE.

• UAE VoIP plans. Use a UAE-based VoIP service like BOTIM, C’Me, or ToToc.
• UAE SIM card. Buy a local UAE SIM card and use roaming to place calls.
• International calling cards. Purchase an international calling card.

Can I use a free VPN for WhatsApp calls in the UAE?

Most free VPNs don’t have the software necessary to unblock WhatsApp in Dubai. They also rarely come with the same high-end security and privacy protection that you get with a paid subscription plan, making them a riskier method of accessing restricted VoIP services in the UAE.

FAQ

Which VPN is best for WhatsApp calling in the UAE?

My favorite VPN for WhatsApp in the UAE is ExpressVPN.

Why is WhatsApp voice call not working in Dubai?

UAE VoIP regulations prohibit the use of WhatsApp, and access to the service is blocked.

Can you call someone on WhatsApp in the UAE?

You can access WhatsApp and place internet calls by using a VPN to connect to a server in a country outside of the UAE.

Is using a VPN illegal in the UAE for WhatsApp?

Using a VPN in the UAE isn’t illegal by itself; however, using a VPN to access blocked services like WhatsApp is against UAE law.

Conclusion

WhatsApp calling may be restricted in the UAE, but with a trusted VPN service like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark, you can make calls on WhatsApp with ease!