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Connect with Dubai from any part of the world using our easy-to-follow guide.
Dubai, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is home to a population where nearly 80% are foreign nationals. This bustling city maintains global ties, making international communication to Dubai straightforward. If you’ve never made a call to Dubai, it may seem confusing at first, but by following a few simple steps, you’ll be calling in no time.
Quick Overview for Dialing Dubai
- Start by dialing your country’s exit code—like 011 if you're calling from the US or Canada.
- Next, dial 9-7-1, the country code for the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
- If you’re calling a landline, dial 4, followed by the 7-digit phone number of the person you're reaching.
- If you're calling a mobile phone, enter the operator prefix (50, 55, or 56), followed by the individual’s phone number.
Dialing Instructions
Dialing Instructions
Start by entering the exit code for your country. This must be dialed before making any international call. The exit code, also called the international access code, differs by country.
- For the United States, Canada, and much of the Caribbean, use exit code 011.
- For China, Italy, and the UK, dial exit code 00.
- In Australia, use 0011 as the exit code.
- To find other exit codes, visit https://www.howtocallabroad.com/codes.html
After entering your exit code, dial 9-7-1 right away. This is the country code for the UAE (United Arab Emirates), the nation that Dubai is part of. Simply follow your country’s exit code with '971'.
- For example, when calling from the U.S., the number would be: 011-971
Dial 4 followed by the 7-digit landline number. It’s important to know whether you’re calling a landline or a mobile number before proceeding. If it’s a landline, begin by dialing 4, then immediately enter the 7-digit phone number.
- Landline numbers are 7 digits long (xxx-xxxx).
- For example, when calling from the U.S., your number will look like: 011-971-4-000-0000.
For cell phones, dial 50, 55, or 56 followed by the 7-digit number. Dubai’s mobile numbers include a prefix, which will be either 50, 55, or 56. This prefix will be part of the phone number you’re given.
- Mobile numbers are typically 9 digits long (xx-xxx-xxxx), with the first two digits being the operator prefix.
- If calling from the U.S., Canada, or the Caribbean, your dialed number will look like: 011-971-55-000-0000.
Effective Communication Tips
Consider the time difference when calling internationally. Dubai operates on Gulf Standard Time (UTC + 4). If you're calling from a different time zone, be sure to check the time in Dubai before making your call to avoid contacting someone at an inconvenient hour.
- Dubai does not observe Daylight Savings Time.
- You can easily check the current time in Dubai at https://time.is/Dubai.
- "UTC" stands for Coordinated Universal Time.
Consider using an international calling card to reduce the cost of long-distance calls. These cards are available at convenience stores, supermarkets, and online, and can often provide better rates for international calls.
- Contact your phone service provider to find out their rates for international calls, and compare them to the cost of using a calling card.
- Inquire with your phone company about international calling plans that might save you money over time.
Use e-mail or instant messaging for easier communication. Due to time zone differences, scheduling a phone call at a convenient time for both parties can be challenging. Consider communicating through e-mail, Facebook Messenger, or another messaging service, allowing you to respond at your convenience.
- Note that VoIP services, including WhatsApp, Skype, and FaceTime, are currently prohibited in the UAE.
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If you're calling from within the UAE, you don't need to dial the exit code or country code. Just add a 0 before dialing the area code for Dubai (4), and then enter the 7-digit phone number.
