@sonikaarealty: Why do WhatsApp calls not work in Dubai and Abu Dhabi? You can send messages on WhatsApp, Messenger and Instagram all day, but the moment you try a voice or video call, it just will not connect. Here is the real reason. In the UAE, internet calling, also known as VoIP, is treated as a regulated telecom service. Under a VoIP policy from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, or TDRA, any app that offers voice or video calls must be licensed or approved. WhatsApp and FaceTime are not on the approved list, so UAE telecom operators like e& and du are required to block their call traffic. Apple itself says FaceTime is not available in the UAE. So this is not really a ban on the apps. Messaging, photos and voice notes all work normally. It is only the calling feature that is restricted, because every calling service in the UAE has to follow the same rules as the licensed providers. That is why apps like BOTIM work, along with approved business tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Google Meet, which are all on the TDRA approved list. As of 2026, there has been no official announcement from the TDRA about lifting the WhatsApp call restriction, so if you are a tourist, expat or new resident moving to the UAE, download an approved calling app before you land. #Apps #botim #socialmediahelp #banned #informative

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Tuesday 20 October 2026 05:59:40 GMT