The UAE has become a major expat hub over the past few of years. Expatriates make up the majority of the population, and most of them reside in the Emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Despite its extreme weather, especially during the summer, everyone seems to enjoy living in the UAE. Unfortunately, the climate isn’t the only thing that’s unpleasant.
How to Access WhatsApp Calling in UAE
If you’re a UAE resident i’m sure you already know by now that the government has banned VoIP services. This includes apps like Skype, Viber, and yes, WhatsApp Calling. But what if I told you there’s a way to unblock the feature? In this article, I will show you how a VPN can give you access to WhatsApp Calling, so that you can stay in touch with your loved ones.
Why is WhatsApp Calling Blocked in the UAE?
As I mentioned earlier, VoIP services are blocked in the UAE. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) says that video call services like WhatsApp Calling don’t meet the UAE’s regulatory framework, whatever that means. But the real reason could be to protect the interests of local telecom providers Etisalat and Du.
Another reason could be security. You see everything on WhatsApp is encrypted, which makes it extremely difficult for the government to monitor any activity.
Whatever reason it may be, WhatsApp Calling is inaccessible in the UAE. That is why you need a VPN.
How to Unblock WhatsApp Calling Using a VPN
You can unblock WhatsApp Calling with a virtual private network, better known as VPN. It is a software that can redirect your internet connection to a server in different geographic location. It masks your IP address and replaces it with another one from a country of your choice. This means that you’ll physically remain in the UAE, but in the online world, you could be in the US, the UK, Australia, or any other country where access to WhatsApp Calling is permitted.
Now to get your hands on a VPN, you need to follow the steps below:
- Choose a VPN provider like ExpressVPN for example.
- Download and install the VPN app on your PC, Mac, iOS, or Android device.
- Sign up and log in.
- Connect to a server where WhatsApp Calling is available, like the US or the UK.
- Double check your new IP address on WhatIsMyIP.network.
- Enjoy your free calls.
Best VPNs to Unblock WhatsApp Calling
Accessing restricted content could get you in a lot of trouble if you’re busted. We’re talking huge fines and even prison time. That is why you need an efficient, reliable, and high-ranked VPN like ExpressVPN. I personally use this brand whenever I want to use WhatsApp Calling or access restricted websites in the UAE.
ExpressVPN has a strong encryption protocol (AES 256-bit encryption), Zero-Knowledge DNS, and a no-logging policy. So you rest assured knowing that you can browse the internet anonymously, and no one can trace anything back to you.
You could also use other VPN service providers that are just as safe and trustworthy. Check the list below for ExpressVPN alternatives:
- 30-Day Money-back Guarantee
- Unlimited Bandwidth
- Apps For All Your Devices
- 24/7 Live Support
What about Accessible VoIP Services in UAE
At the moment, there are only two operational VoIP services in the UAE: Botim and C’Me. But both these services aren’t very popular among UAE residents. That’s because no one has ever heard of these applications outside the Emirates, so the number of users is very small.
Furthermore, both apps might give away important data to third parties or the government. They also tend to crash, malfunction, or even drop calls.
And finally, they cost money, whereas you can download WhatsApp or Skype for free.
Other VPN Benefits
VPNs aren’t just useful to unblock WhatsApp Calling or other video call services, they can also bypass geo-blocks and give you access to restricted websites and streaming channels like ESPN+ or HBO GO.
Additionally, you could use a VPN to make secure online activities, especially when it comes to banking. VPNs won’t just give you access to banking services which are usually blocked outside your home country, they will also allow you to monitor your banking activity safely and privately.
Last but not least, VPNs protect your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic. This means that no one will be able to monitor what you’re doing or track your online activity, including your internet service provider (ISP).
Which Websites Are Blocked in UAE?
There are a lot of popular websites that are blocked in the UAE. Basically, any website that has one of the below natures is blocked:
- Adult websites
- Certain gambling websites
- Anti-Islamic websites
- Anti-government websites
- LGTBQ material
- VoIP services
How to Unblock WhatsApp Calling in UAE with VPN
How to Access WhatsApp Calling in the UAE – Final Words
WhatsApp Calling is a free service that allows you to stay in touch with family and friends without having to pay ridiculous phone call fees. VoIP apps have reshaped the telecommunications world, allowing users to make free calls and text chats. And just because countries like the UAE have banned WhatsApp Calling and other services, doesn’t mean you have to keep phone conversations to a minimum. Get a VPN, unblock WhatsApp Calling, and chat away.
