Imagine: You are expecting to have a video call with your family in Dubai through WhatsApp, and the screen gets frozen, you cannot reach family members. Why? Due to the fact that in UAE, the most popular video calling applications are blocked. Luckily, finding such illegal apps under restriction is not the only alternative as there is a list of legal alternatives that are also effective without a VPN.
According to the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) of UAE, the number of free video call apps that can be used is limited as the policies of telecommunication of the country do not permit others to operate. WhatsApp, Microsoft Teams, and FaceTime are not allowed to operate unless they partner with telecommunication service providers like Etisalat or Du.
"Legal access to video calling isn't just about convenience—it's about security, regulation, and peace of mind."
Actually, more than 80% of expats in UAE use approved video calling apps to stay connected with their family and friends across the world. Through such TRA-approved apps, you can make perfect, clear video calls legally.
Why Most Popular Video Calling Apps Won't Work in UAE?
UAE blocks leading international video calling applications to safeguard its telecommunications infrastructure at the national level and to realize local revenues by associating with providers such as Etisalat and Du. Applications without proper licenses from the UAE's Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) are blocked or have limited functions.
Why Video Call Apps Are Restricted?
Security:
Governemnt-approved apps make it simpler to monitor foreign data usage. TRA can monitor usage to eliminate illegal content and provide security via all types of user communication.
Revenue Protection:
TRA-approved apps typically have pay-for VoIP offerings via local telecos such as Etisalat and Du. This keeps the call services under control and avoids telecom revenue loss.
Policy Enforcement:
Applications that fail to maintain pace with UAE's rigorous content control, encryption, and routing of data are throttled or directly blocked for the digital control aim.
Unregulated Data Storage:
Most global free calling apps save individual data on foreign servers, a transgression of UAE's digital law. The TRA demands all approved apps host or mirror data locally for openness and regulation.
Lack of Local Tie-Ups:
Without local tie-ups with telecommunication operators, an application does not stand a chance of being whitelisted for use in UAE. Without such tie-ins, applications are non-compliant by default.
Bypassing License Fees:
Big free video call app in UAE do not pay license fees to be run in UAE's established telecom infrastructure. Therefore, they remain blocked to ensure equality for those who use legal means.
1. Botim – The Most Stable UAE Government-Approved Video Calling App
BOTIM is the most reliable video calling application in the UAE. It is approved by the government of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) and supports local networks such as Etisalat and Du.
The Botim free video call app is suitable for professionals, families, and individuals who are in need of a legal, full-scale communication platform. Although it is expensive to subscribe to, the services are worth it to users who require constant and secure service in the UAE.
Best Feature: Money transfer within chat via adaptive streaming.
Main Features:
- HD voice and video calls
- BOTIM Money for money transfers
- In-app purchases
- TRA-approved encryption
Best For: Expats and residents who need secure communications.
Benefits:
- Stable call quality
- Shopping and payments integrated
- Legal and well-liked in UAE
Disadvantages:
- Needs Etisalat or Du subscription
- Less utilized outside UAE
2. Zoom – The Trustworthy Video Conferencing App
Zoom is perhaps the most well-known video conferencing live video call free app which is functional in the UAE without a VPN. It is certified to be used and functions without a hitch due to its compliance with local laws and regional server support.
The platform is suitable for telecommuters, schools, and businesses. It provides features of HD video conferencing, screen sharing, recording meetings, and virtual breakout rooms for group discussions. Its simplicity in use makes it available to beginners and professionals equally.
Top Feature: Breakout rooms for team discussion.
Key Features:
- HD video conferencing
- Secure meetings with encryption
- Localized performance in UAE
- Screen sharing and chat tools
Best For: Businesses, schools, and remote teams.
Pros:
- Quick and easy to use
- Legally works in UA
- Excellent collaboration tool for teams
Cons:
- Free version time-limited
- Some global privacy issues
3. Microsoft Teams – Best Business Video Call Tool
Microsoft Teams is a robust business communication tool that integrates video calls, chat, file sharing, and calendar management. It is part of Microsoft 365 and is approved for UAE use under local law.
The platform is perfect for business and remote teams requiring a secure, professional solution to work together on a day-to-day basis. It has encrypted meetings, document editing, and project management, all in one convenient spot. Teams also includes integrations with Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Top Feature: Deep integration with Microsoft 365 apps.
Key Features:
- Secure video calls
- File sharing and collaborative real-time work
- AES 256-bit encryption
- Fully UAE regulation compliant
Best For: Corporate teams and professional users.
Pros:
- Enterprise-level features
- Local regulation compliant
- Powerful Microsoft app integration
Cons:
- It May be overwhelming for the newcomers
- Needs Microsoft account
4. Voico – Free And Simple UAE Daily Calling
Voico is easy, friendly video calling software licensed for use in the UAE. Voico is indeed integrated with Du and so has free video calls possible without the use of a VPN. Voico provides free video calling for 30 minutes each day, perfect for friends and families who must remain in contact daily.
The best video call app in UAE has end-to-end encrypted voice and video calling, which means your calls are kept confidential. Its minimalistic design makes it accessible to people of all ages. Voico does not have the advanced features of screen sharing or group features, but it does the basics nicely.
Top Feature: 30 minutes of free daily video calling.
- Main Features
- Crystal clear voice and video
- End-to-end encrypted, secure calls
- Optimized for the Du network
- No need for VPN
Best For: Everyday casual communications and families.
Advantages:
- Daily free use
- Easy interface
- Legal and certified in the UAE
Disadvantages:
- 30 minutes of daily use
- Fewer advanced features
5. Gochat – All-In-One Lifestyle App By Etisalat
GoChat is not merely a Dubai video call app—it's a lifestyle. Built by Etisalat specifically to meet its needs, it complies with UAE telecom laws in all respects and can be accessed without a VPN. Users get free HD video calls, chat messages, and voice calls.
Apart from the communication, GoChat offers shopping, money transfer, ordering of food, and bill payments. It attempts to provide all of these from one application, and as such, it is perfect for UAE nationals who would prefer an app that does everything.
Top Feature: Tightly integrated calling, shopping, and payment functionality.
Key Features:
- High-definition voice and video calls
- Integrating payment services
- Shopping and food delivery services
100 percent UAE compliant
Best Suited: People interested in having an all-around lifestyle application.
Pros:
- Free and flexible
- Trusted connection
- Secure and authorized
Cons
- Needs Etisalat login
- Some restrictions outside UAE
6. C'Me – Light And Secure Video Calling
C'Me is a light and secure best video calling app appropriate for users who prefer a light one. It is licenced in the UAE fully and runs smoothly on low-speed internet. It contains less clutter and thus is an appropriate choice for users who like less.
C'Me focuses on providing seamless voice and video calls with strong encryption features. It is easy to install and does not consume much battery or data. One does not need to deal with menus or VPNs and can chat with friends or relatives.
Best Feature: The phone choice in poor-bandwidth systems is the best.
Chief Features:
- Clean UI
- Improved video calling
- UAE networks certified
- Low data usage
Best For: Those who need a simple, trustworthy app.
Pros:
- Lightning quick and lightweight
- Works on slower networks
- Simple to use
Cons:
- No add-ons
- Less used than large apps
7. Hiu Messenger – Good And Trustworthy For Everyday Use
HiU Messenger is one of the most widely used VoIP apps that is officially licensed to be used in the UAE. It provides clear and stable video and voice calls without the use of a VPN. The online video calling app is reputed to ensure call quality even in crowded areas or heavy internet use.
HiU is appropriate for people who often call family or friends. Its low data usage is also embedded in it so that the user can utilize his or her mobile data and still have quality communication. The end-to-end encryption is done to calls and messages in the app.
High Point Feature: Steady performance on overloaded networks.
Key Features:
- End-to-end encrypted calls
- Permits calls without VPN
- Optimized low data consumption
- Availability through Etisalat and Du
Best For: Heavy users who need call stability.
Advantages:
- Unstable on loaded networks
- Secure and easy to use
- TRA-approved
Cons:
- Less functionality when not calling
- Needs data or telecom subscription
8. Google Meet – Secure, Compliant, And Global
Google Meet is a well-known video conference tool, which works in the UAE with no VPN. It is mostly applied in business conferences, home schooling, and versatile communication with relatives. As it is compliant in the UAE, the user can make secure, high-quality calls.
It accommodates up to 250 people in one call with live captioning, screen sharing, and calendar scheduling using Google Calendar. It is very Google Workspace-compatible, thus making it a favorite among experts and teachers.
Top Feature: Secure group video calls with live captions.
Key Features:
- End-to-end encryption
- Google Calendar integration
- HD meetings up to 250 users
- Fully legal in UAE
Best For: Business users and educators who work with Google tools.
Pros:
- Recognized brand
- Very good for group sessions
- Secure and compliant
Cons:
- Needs a Google account
- Very limited call time on the free edition
9. Zoho Meeting – UAE-Friendly And Business-Oriented
Zoho Meeting is an underrated video conferencing application that provides secure, UAE-compliant conversation. It's particularly favored by startups, schools, and small enterprises who need solid video calling and hosting webinars.
The platform offers encrypted meetings, screen sharing, recording of sessions, and live polling—all great features for interactive sessions and presentations. Zoho Meeting also boasts a user-friendly interface and cost-effective pricing plans so even small groups can use it.
Most Popular Feature: Secure webinar tools with moderator permissions.
Best Features:
- Encrypted video meetings
- Interactive webinar features
- UAE-legal and VPN-free
- Affordable for small teams
Best For: Business users and educators conducting webinars.
Pros:
- Security-focused
- Simple to use
- Affordable
Cons:
- Less suitable for occasional use
- Low brand awareness
10. IMO – Fast, Simple, And Legal In UAE
IMO is a light messaging and video call service which is legally operating in the UAE. It is patronized by users who like speedy, handy video calls without going through the hassle of using VPNs or shelling out a lot of data.
The best free video call app download installs quickly and is quick to set up, which makes it the best for overall communication. As much as IMO does not have some of the features like screen sharing and document editing, it just provides quick, safe video and voice calls.
Imo video call app performs extremely well even at low internet speeds, which makes it the best for people who have limited data connections. Its simplicity is the very reason why it is appealing—just open the app and begin speaking.
Top Feature: Rapid call setup and low data consumption.
Key Features:
- Easy to use interface
- Secure voice calling
- Smooth functioning without VPN
- Light battery consumption
Best For: Those who require speedy and convenient communication.
Pros:
- Fast and light
- No additional charges
- Smooth functioning on weak networks
Cons:
- Limited set of features
- Less business features
How to Set Up Legal Video Calling Apps in the UAE?
- Select a TRA-approved app from this list.
- Sign up for an Etisalat or Du VoIP package.
- Download the application from legitimate app stores.
- Confirm your UAE phone number.
- Grant camera and microphone permissions.
- Make sure to have a good network connection.
Tip: Do not use third-party APKs to avoid app bans.
How DXB APPS Can Assist You In Creating The Best Video Calling Apps In UAE?
DXB APPS is an expert in creating custom, high-quality, and TRA-compliant VoIP and video communication mobile app development Dubai.
Our team of skilled mobile app developers knows how to design secure apps using the latest technologies and guarantee continuity of local telecom regulations.
Being a reliable mobile app development company, we provide:
- Scalable video calling apps
- Integrated eCommerce features
- End-to-end real-time encryption
- Smooth UI/UX
Conclusion
In a nation where VPNs are completely banned and popular apps are illegal, it is crucial to find a safe and legal video calling app. This guide assists you in selecting from the top free video calling apps and provides a map for trouble-free communication.
As a businessman, traveler, or resident, obey TRA-compliant solutions and stay connected—legally.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What video calling app is approved in UAE?
BOTIM, GoChat, HiU Messenger, C'Me, and Voico are TRA-approved apps authorized for video calling in UAE.
2. Is Zoom usable in UAE without VPN?
Yes, Zoom supports UAE rules and operates without VPN because of UAE server integration.
3. Is video call using IMO lawful in UAE?
Yes, IMO can be used within UAE and operates without VPN.
