Unfortunately, what's app calls, FaceTime, and other apps such as Viber/FaceBook messenger/Skype are all banned in the UAE. People living in the UAE can either download an app called 'IMO' or another app called 'BOTIM'.
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While many social media apps are either restricted or blocked in Dubai, it doesn't mean you can't access them completely. Technology has made even the impossible possible, and you can access unrestricted Facebook, Twitter, and Tinder using VPN.
The country's ISPs Etisalat and du (telco) ban pornography, politically sensitive material and anything against the perceived moral values of the UAE. All or most VoIP services are blocked. Both WhatsApp and Snapchat calling functions were also blocked in the UAE, to comply with VoIP regulations.
Why Are Voice Calls, Video Calls and VOIP Services Banned? As mentioned earlier, the UAE government has banned WhatsApp calling and other Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls because of privacy and national security reasons.
The Cyber Crimes Law extends to Facebook and WhatsApp, among other social media platforms. While these applications and platforms increase socialisation, the law has been set up with a view of protecting people from those who abuse these platforms for personal or financial gain.
Are video calls illegal in Dubai? Yes, video calling is banned in UAE, but government telecom companies like Etisalat & Du provided video call facilities via different apps on a chargeable basis. Why is WhatsApp banned in Dubai? WhatsApp, Skype, IMO, and other VoIP apps are blocked in the UAE.
Can we FaceTime from Dubai? No, you can't do FaceTime from Dubai because the application is illegal in the United Arab Emirates. If you want to use FaceTime in Dubai, you can access it with the help of a reputable VPN like NordVPN.
WhatsApp calls are banned in UAE
Dubai residents are able to use some other apps to make internet calls, however. Here is a list of some apps that Dubai residents can you to make calls: Microsoft Teams. Skype for Business.
The law states that anyone who uses a computer network to insult, abuse, libel, slander, or defame another person shall be punished with imprisonment and/or a fine of up to AED 500,000. If you are a victim of Facebook defamation in UAE, you can report it to the Dubai Police Cyber Crime Department.
The TDRA censors selected content on platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter, according to local users. In 2021, Google received 18 content removal requests from the UAE.
It is loved by millions of Internet users worldwide. Unfortunately, Zoom is blocked in the UAE and other countries like Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Syria, and others. We are here to help you to unblock Zoom in UAE and other countries. The best solution for Zoom in UAE is a VPN or Virtual Private Network.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using WhatsApp in Dubai
You can use WhatsApp's texting functions while in Dubai. This includes sharing pictures and videos, as well as voice notes. The WhatsApp features of making video calls and voice calls don't work while you're in Dubai. Yes, you can use Instagram in Dubai.
Telegram. An encrypted messaging service that allows you to call and text friends who have also downloaded the Telegram app. Though a global app, the operational centre is based in Dubai, making it a perfect communication tool to use if WhatsApp is down in the UAE.
If you're looking for a way to make free calls in UAE without a VPN, KalamTime is the app for you. This app allows you to make free calls to any UAE number without a VPN. The app is available for Android and iPhone, and it's effortless.
Luckily, there is a way to use Instagram Video calls in the UAE . With VPN, users within the UAE can bypass the country's regional restrictions and start video chatting with friends using the app.
GoChat. As part of Etisalat's latest initiative, Etisalat launched GoChat Messenger with a new free voice and calling to the UAE. The requirements include a mobile number for registration on both iOS and Android app stores. The international 50 minutes package starts at Dhs50, with more options to choose from.
The UAE government has blocked all independant VoIP services, that is, those it can't supervise, like WhatsApp and FaceTime, and it has its own brand in place, and that is, Botim.
The UAE, home to the oil-rich capital of Abu Dhabi and the freewheeling financial hub of Dubai, long has blocked internet calling apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime, presumably due to security concerns and to protect the revenues of its monopoly state-run telecommunication companies.
WhatsApp, like most free VoIP and messaging services, is blocked in Dubai and The UAE. This can make it difficult to keep in touch with friends and family back home unless you're willing to pay for a government-approved service like C'Me or BOTIM.
1- what is Social media abuse Law UAE? According to Article 20 of the UAE Cyber Crime Law, anyone found defaming on social media another person or posting something derogatory would be sentenced to jail time and pay a fine between AED250,000 and AED500,000.
#3 – Do not gossip or spread rumours.
As cited earlier, ranting or sharing hate posts could lead to serious punishment. Six months jail time and a fine of AED 250,000 await those who use social networks “for the purpose of defamation of or offending another person or for attacking or invading his privacy.”