A Guide to Calling the United Arab Emirates

Start by dialing your country’s exit code to make an international call. The exit code varies by country, so it’s important to know the one for your location. For example, Europe commonly uses 00, and most of North America uses 011. You can ask your phone provider for the exit code or look it up on https://www.howtocallabroad.com/codes.html

• For instance, in Australia, the exit code is 0011. So, dialing the UAE would look like 0011+XXX+X+XXX-XXXX.
• Some countries have several exit codes depending on the provider. In Brazil, for example, each phone service has its own code.
• If you’re using a mobile phone, look for the + button on your keypad, which will automatically input the exit code, so you don’t need to type it manually.

Dial 971 to connect with the United Arab Emirates. Every country has a unique country code, and 971 is the code for the UAE. This code always follows your exit code.

• Make sure to enter the correct country code to avoid calling a different country by mistake!
• Once you’ve dialed the country code, your number might look like 0011+971+X+XXX-XXXX.

Enter the area code for the specific city in the UAE you want to call. Like many countries, the UAE has different area codes for its regions. Larger cities like Dubai have single-digit area codes, while smaller places like Tarif have two-digit codes. You can find the area codes at https://countrycode.org/uae.

• For example, Dubai’s area code is 4, whereas for Abu Dhabi, it’s 2.
• Always dial the area code after the country code, so your number will look like 0011+971+4+XXX-XXXX.
• If the number you’re dialing starts with a 0, omit it when calling from abroad. For instance, a Dubai number may appear as 04—just leave off the 0 when dialing internationally.

For mobile numbers, use an area code that starts with 5. Mobile numbers in the UAE have their own area codes, and the specific code depends on the service provider. You’ll need to know the mobile code, which is typically 2 digits long, to make the call. The best way to find out is by asking the person you’re calling or figuring out which carrier they use.

• For example, Etisalat numbers use 50 or 54, and Du numbers often start with 52 or 55.
• If you’re calling a mobile number, your dialed number will look like 0011+971+55+XXX-XXXX.
• As with landline numbers, avoid dialing the 0 if the number starts with it. You only need to use it for domestic calls.

Enter the phone number to complete your call. In the UAE, phone numbers consist of 7 digits, excluding the area code. To finish dialing, ensure you have the correct phone number either from the person you're calling or by searching online.

• The completed number will look like 0011+971+4+XXX-XXX, which is the dialing format for a call to Dubai from Australia.

Speak to your phone provider about international calling plans if you plan to make frequent calls. Let your carrier know you’ll be calling the UAE and ask about their rates and available international calling plans. Many providers offer plans designed for frequent international callers. If you expect to make multiple calls, especially to family in the UAE, a prepaid plan could save you money.

• Be sure to check for any additional fees mentioned in the carrier’s terms of service. International calls can be expensive, so it’s essential to compare options before committing to a plan.

Opt for a prepaid plan if you’ll only be making occasional calls. Many phone companies offer pay-as-you-go plans where you pre-purchase a set number of minutes. Once those minutes are used up, you’ll need to buy more to continue calling. Prepaid plans are ideal for placing international calls without being locked into a recurring monthly payment.

• Your usage is limited by the amount of minutes you purchase, so managing your time wisely is key. But the pay-as-you-go structure prevents you from overspending on lengthy calls.

Consider international calling cards for short calls at discounted rates. You can buy an international calling card either online or from a local service provider. Check the card’s front for details on how many minutes it offers and its rates. Be sure the card is valid for calls to the UAE. To use it, dial the number listed on the card before entering your country’s exit code.

• Depending on your location, these cards may be available at supermarkets, convenience stores, and other retailers. While visiting the UAE, you can also find prepaid calling cards sold by local telecom companies that work even when you’re abroad.
• Be sure to read the fine print for any additional fees associated with using the card for calls.

Invest in a VoIP phone for frequent international calls. Look for service providers that offer VoIP phone plans, like Vonage. VoIP phones use the Internet for calls instead of traditional phone lines, helping you save on international calling rates. If you find yourself calling the UAE regularly, VoIP is a smart investment.

• Some companies provide phone adapters that let you make VoIP calls on a regular phone, allowing you to use your computer or landline for the calls.
• The downside of VoIP phones is the need for a stable Internet connection. A fast connection ensures better call quality.

Use a legal internet app if you need to make quality video calls. The UAE has regulations governing which apps can be used for calls. Common VoIP apps like BOTIM and C’me are legal in the UAE. These apps require a Wi-Fi connection or mobile data. The person you’re calling must also have the app installed.

• Both BOTIM and C’me charge a monthly subscription, which may be too costly for some residents. However, these apps support both voice and video calls.
• Skype and FaceTime were banned in the UAE as of 2018. This may change in the future, but for now, the government prefers to limit free services.

• The UAE telecom authorities are authorized by law to block apps like Skype and FaceTime. While some residents manage to bypass these restrictions, it’s important to consider the risks before attempting to use these apps illegally.