The UAE lifted numerous restrictions on video calling apps. In 2025, people will enjoy more freedom to connect globally. Choosing the best video calling apps in the UAE enhances communication with family, friends, and business. This article covers the ten best video calling apps in the UAE for 2025. We explain what a video call is, its benefits, and why some apps are still banned. You also get detailed descriptions of allowed apps. This guide helps you pick the right app legally and securely in the UAE.
What is a Video Call? – Just to Be Clear
A video call is a call that sends live audio and video information over the internet. Individuals can watch and listen to one another. It enables people to interact face-to-face at a distance. The users must have a camera and microphone on their device. Video calling can be used using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. It employs apps that can compress information. Such services need good internet bandwidth. The receiver and caller should use the same app or a compatible protocol. A video call can involve more than one person. It brings people together even in different locations. This kind of communication enhances clarity over voice calls.
What are the benefits of using Video Calling apps?
Video calling apps help users save travel time and costs. They allow remote meetings with family or work peers. You experience face‑to‑face interaction online. These apps improve collaboration through screen sharing. You can attend classes or consultations virtually. Connectivity works across devices and platforms. Many apps offer encryption and security features. Video calls support group conferencing effectively. They maintain visual communication and non‑verbal cues. They also help manage time zones efficiently. They contribute to accessibility for remote workers. They reduce environmental impact by avoiding physical travel. Video calling apps enhance productivity and social connection simultaneously.
Why are Skype and WhatsApp calling apps banned in the UAE?
The UAE blocks Skype and WhatsApp due to regulatory policies. The government mandates licensed telecom operators provide calling services. These apps bypass telecom control and revenue. Regulators worry about security and compliance with local rules. Telecom law requires approved providers only. Apps like Skype violate licensing requirements. WhatsApp calling also lacks local operator oversight. This ban prevents unauthorized interception and misuse. Regulators enforce strict data governance standards. Approved apps must comply with national data laws. Using banned apps may attract fines or legal issues. The restrictions help maintain telecom standards and protect consumers in the UAE.
What Video Calling Apps Are Allowed in The UAE?
Not all video calling apps are legal in the UAE.
The country permits only licensed services that meet telecom regulations.
Using the right apps helps you stay connected without breaking the law.
Here are the video calling platforms approved for legal use in the UAE
1. Botim
Botim is a licensed app approved by the UAE telecom regulator. It offers high-quality video and voice calls. The app supports group video conferencing. Users access voice and video features over Wi‑Fi or mobile data. It supports up to six participants per video call. Businesses and families use it for remote communication. Subscription plans are affordable and compliant with local laws. Botim integrates well with the UAE telecom infrastructure. It adheres to licensing and privacy regulations fully.
2 . Zoom
Zoom is allowed in the UAE after registering with local telecom operators. It offers HD quality video conferencing. The platform supports large groups and screen sharing. Zoom works on multiple devices and browsers. It has features like breakout rooms and recording. It encrypts meetings and supports secure login. It follows UAE data localization requirements. It caters to business, educational, and social use cases. Zoom offers free and paid plans. The paid plan allows longer meetings and more attendees. It integrates with calendar tools and productivity software. Zoom remains popular in the UAE across industries.
3 . C’Me
C’Me also operates under UAE telecom licensing. It offers video and voice calling over mobile and Wi‑Fi. The app uses secure encryption technology. C’Me supports group calls with multiple participants. It works on Android and iOS platforms. The app is user-friendly and stable. Users report high-quality video performance regionally. It meets all local regulatory and security requirements. C’Me offers flexible subscription plans. It integrates with contact lists and provides notifications. It is reliable for both personal and business communication in the UAE.
4. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is approved in the UAE after compliance registration. It offers video conferencing and chat tools. Teams will allow secure video calls, meetings and collaboration capabilities. It is compatible with Office 365 and the Microsoft cloud. Teams encrypts calls and shares files securely. It meets UAE data governance and licensing rules. It works across Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices. It supports webinars and large meeting capacities. The platform helps remote teams stay productive. It offers both free and premium business subscriptions. Teams is widely used in UAE workplaces and educational institutions.
5 . HiU Messenger
HiU Messenger is a local app authorized by the UAE telecom regulators. It offers voice and video calling features. The app supports direct and group sessions. It works across Android and iOS devices. HiU uses encryption to secure user data. It integrates with the UAE telecom infrastructure for calling. It supports HD video quality and stable connections. Users value its compliance with local regulations. Subscription costs are competitive. It is suited for families and small businesses. The app includes chat and file sharing features. HiU aligns with UAE licensing and data protection policies.
6. GoChat
GoChat is a licensed application under UAE telecom guidelines. It offers video calling and messaging services. GoChat supports group video functionality with good quality. It works on Android and iOS operating systems. It uses secure encryption for calls and data. It meets local legal and regulatory standards. Subscription plans offer unlimited calling and messaging. Businesses use it for remote meetings and collaboration. It integrates with UAE operator billing systems. Its interface is responsive and straightforward. GoChat ensures compliance with UAE licensing rules. Users across the Emirates trust it.
7 . Google Meet
Google Meet operates in the UAE under a registered license. It provides high-quality video conferencing. The app offers screen sharing and participant management tools. Google Meet encrypts video calls end‑to‑end. It integrates with Google Workspace and calendar tools. It meets UAE data residency and legal standards. Users access it via web, Android, or iOS apps. It supports large group meetings and webinars. Plans vary from free to premium subscriptions. It provides collaboration features like live captions. Google Meet remains secure and compliant with UAE regulations.
8. Voico By Etisalat
Etisalat offers Voico and is fully licensed in the UAE. It enables voice and video calling over mobile and Wi‑Fi. Voico uses encryption and meets privacy standards. It supports one‑on‑one and group video calls. The app works on commonly used mobile devices and computers. It integrates with Etisalat billing and subscriber systems. It follows all UAE telecom laws. Business and residential users rely on it for connectivity. Its interface is intuitive and reliable. Voico subscription includes unlimited minutes and video usage. It is a trusted local option in the UAE.
9 . Telegram
Telegram added video calling features and gained approval in the UAE. It supports one‑on‑one and small group video calls. Telegram offers secure end‑to‑end encryption. It works across Android, iOS, and desktop platforms. Telegram meets UAE regulatory requirements. Users can make video calls within the chat interface. It supports HD audio and decent video quality. It also includes messaging and file transfer features. The app offers free usage with optional premium features. It remains fast, lightweight, and secure. Telegram is compliant and favorable for UAE users.
10. Slack
Slack has a UAE license and provides video calling. It allows team conferences and one-on-one video conferencing. Slack combines workflow applications and productivity tools. It is compatible with Mac, Windows, Android, and iOS. Slack encrypts calls and complies with the privacy laws. It complies with the telecom and data regulations of the UAE. It enables small-group video conferencing and screen sharing. It has an interface that is appropriate in the workplace. There is a free and paid plan, depending on features. The UAE businesses and startups still favor it.
What Will Happen When You Break the Rules?
In the UAE, using such prohibited applications as Skype or WhatsApp can result in a fine. Operators and regulators can block accounts and services. Repeat offence may have legal consequences. Police keep track of illegal VoIP traffic on the move. The use of unlicensed apps violates the telecom law. Users may be penalized or restricted on the internet. Businesses face the danger of losing operating licenses. Companies are also exposed to reputational loss. Licensed app use means compliance and peace of mind. Personal and business users are safe when approved apps are used.
Conclusion
The UAE will support several video calling apps legally in 2025. Using an approved app avoids fines and ensures compliance. Each app offers unique features tailored to business or personal needs. Choose based on group size, video quality, and platform compatibility. Licensed apps like Botim, Zoom, and Google Meet meet security and data protection laws. Use only these apps to stay within UAE telecom regulations. With this guide, you can connect seamlessly while obeying local rules. Choose one of best Mobile App Development Dubai company and enjoy safe, stable video communication across the Emirates.
