Why WhatsApp and FaceTime are banned in Dubai as tourist left baffled

Dubai is a city with a population that consists of around 90 percent expats, but would you be shocked to learn that video calling is blocked here?

The holiday hotspot is one of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE, and the country as a whole doesn't allow voice or video-call apps.

If you've ever ventured out to the popular Middle Eastern destination, you might have experienced an issue or two when you try to phone home, that being, you can't.

Whether you're using data or wi-fi, there isn't really a way around it, benefitting local telecom companies Etisalat and du.

TikTok user @eljthetravelpa, real name Emma, even posted a video to complain about the issue, saying it's 'one thing I really can't get used to about Dubai'.

"I can't FaceTime anyone I know," she stated, before adding: "I think it's about maybe, a law about video chats, I'm not actually quite sure."

"But I always forget and then when I come again, I try and go to video call and it just doesn't work," she explained, warning people that might be looking to visit.

While the government have never explained why these apps have been banned, it has been the case for years, and it's almost unavoidable.

But with that being said, there are available alternatives.

VoIP apps

Etisalat and du offer their customers a subscription service that allows for voice over VoIP, or Internet protocol, apps.

These are only for those that work in the country though, and you'll have to pay for this privilege.

Zoom

This might be a throwback to lockdown for some, but Zoom is currently unblocked in the UAE and can be used to video call people anywhere in the world.

Tried and tested by yours truly, this might be the most effective and legal way to bypass the country's ban on WhatsApp and FaceTime calling.

BOTIM

Another legal way to video call people while in the UAE is through the app BOTIM.

The local app looks and feels similar to WhatsApp, and it can even import your contacts when you download it.

Obviously, the catch here is that the person you call needs to download the app too, but like WhatsApp, you can contact people through their phone numbers.

VPN

Using a VPN would mean that you could successfully video call others on FaceTime, WhatsApp, Instagram, and more, but it is a bit of a grey area when it comes to the nation's laws.

They state that as long as you aren't using the VPN for 'illegal activities', you will not be punished.

Subscribing to a VPN will also cost you a bit, and unless you're living there or already have one, it might not be the best financial decision.

Other alternatives

There are a few apps you can try your hand at out there too, such as HiU Messenger, which is similar to WhatsApp, but is pretty much a less popular version of BOTIM.

C'Me is also a less popular option, and though it can work on occasion, the app is known for its poor call quality and boasts two stars on the Apple App Store.

Yzer is a messaging app supporting by du's Internet Calling Plans, but again, it isn't known for its call quality and it isn't particularly popular.

Phone plans

If all else fails, you can fork out some cash and pay for a plan with either Etisalat or du, and ensure that you get international minutes.

You can even get yourself a VoIP calling card to phone overseas - these can be found at most shops in Dubai.

Etisalat's is called Five, while du's is called Hello, and you'll need to type in the area code and phone number of who you'd like to ring, before sending the call through.

It can cost you anywhere between AED15 to AED50 (£3 to £11) for a card, and you'll be able to make international calls, stress free, with no hassle.