Moving to Dubai and wondering why you can’t make WhatsApp calls? Well, you are not alone! While Dubai has an unparalleled lifestyle, being able to communicate can be quite tricky given its restrictions on very popular services such as WhatsApp calling. But don’t worry, here’s how you can get connected while living in this vibrant city. Dubai has some rules concerning VoIP services, which may make people who have become accustomed to popular applications like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype for voice calls somewhat shocked.
More precisely, the WhatsApp calling restriction in Dubai specifically leaves visitors surprised by taking away options of free online calls. These are handled through the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority with an aim to promote security and support local telecom services. This affects common platforms like those listed above and shapes the ways in which expats and short-term renters communicate.
For renters with StaysDxb, a leading provider of short-term rentals in Dubai, understanding and adapting to these restrictions is essential to maintain contact with loved ones and friends back home. Fortunately, approved apps and services are at hand, as well as practical expat communication tips that can help newcomers seamlessly integrate these solutions into their daily lives. By adopting the right approach, tenants could navigate these particular communication regulations with ease and live comfortably.
The VoIP services restriction imposed by Dubai protects the telecom industry from harm and diverts residents and visitors into licensed alternatives such as BOTIM, C’Me, and ToTok. These licensed platforms have been similar in call and messaging features, yet have presented reliable and lawful alternatives to the restricted apps. For short-term renters, familiarization with these alternatives is a major Dubai living tip to ensure seamless, uninterrupted communication.
For renters, these restrictions can pose real challenges. Expats who rely on WhatsApp to communicate with family abroad may find themselves needing to explore alternative methods to stay connected in Dubai. This is especially true when coordinating with landlords, property managers, or service providers.
Among the residents of Dubai, licensed VoIP applications have become very trendy, especially BOTIM. These applications are through Etisalat and du, with additions of subscription packages that can be bought at very affordable prices allowing international voice or video calls to be made within the ambit of the law. For renters with StaysDxb, subscribing to these apps would make day-to-day communication in Dubai much easier and would definitely keep them in touch with their loved ones back in their home country.
Using a VPN is another way people seek access to services blocked by VoIP restrictions. UAE has strict laws against the use of VPN’s and punishes those who use them to bypass restrictions blocking WhatsApp calls in Dubai, for instance. For VoIP services, it is advisable that short-term residents stay away from the use of VPNs, and instead, leverage licensed applications for any hassle-free stay.
Less convenient than VoIP, traditional mobile calls and SMS are still good, unrestricted ways to communicate. The telecom providers in Dubai provide relatively affordable packages featuring both calling and data; this makes sure that expats can stay in contact when in Dubai without solely relying on internet-based services. This is especially helpful for renters who may rely on local communication options for day-to-day needs.
Preparation for these differences in communications is key to a seamless transition into life in Dubai. Those renting short-term can prepare by signing up for a mobile plan with a licensed VoIP app before or upon arrival. Therefore, this allows for you to communicate reliably, more so in the first weeks of settling into an apartment for rent in Dubai.
Stays Dxb offers so much more than comfortable short-term rentals in Dubai alone. Be it a fully fitted kitchen or stylish en-suite bathrooms in each apartment, the apartments are fitted to support a connected lifestyle. Furthermore, Stays Dxb can take you through Dubai’s unique landscape when it comes to telecommunication. From ensuring Wi-Fi connectivity to providing guidance on mobile and VoIP services, our team makes it rather easier to adapt to Dubai’s communication setup.
While WhatsApp and similar platforms restrict voice calls, messaging features on social apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram remain unaffected. These tools are used for text messaging and making video updates by a lot of expats and short-time renters residing in Dubai; hence, they are very helpful supplements to bridge the gaps in traditional calls. This kind of integration of social media with licensed apps will keep the residents connected without disrupting their Dubai experience.
Despite restrictions on WhatsApp calling in Dubai, short-term renters have a number of ways to keep communication in Dubai smooth. With licensed apps, mobile packages, and social media in their league, it’s well within the range of an expat to overcome such communication barriers and enjoy everything Dubai has in store for them. When renting through Stays Dxb, you can expect professional support concerning staying connected and making your stay in Dubai seamless and as smooth as it should be.
