Does WhatsApp work in Dubai?

WHATSAPP is one of the most used smartphone services in the world with users being able to text, phone, video call and send each other pictures.

Despite the app being a global phenomenon, some places have put restrictions on how people can use WhatsApp including Dubai – here’s why.

Does WhatsApp work in Dubai?

While WhatsApp does work over in sunny Dubai, users can only use the app’s texting features.

People can send regular messages to one another including sharing pictures and video via the chat options.

This also means the ever-popular group chats are still accessible.

However, Dubai has imposed restrictions when it comes to making voice calls and video calls on WhatsApp.

Whether you live in the holiday hotspot all year round or if you’re just stopping by for a short stay, the app is hindered by the strict government regulations.

Why did Dubai ban WhatsApp?

Dubai is one of the most popular cities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where there are strict internet restrictions imposed by the government.

In the Middle Eastern region, internet usage is monitored by the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA).

The TRA decided to place a ban on WhatsApp, as well as other similar apps like Facetime, Skype and Viber which all use face-to-face calls.

The group have blocked apps that offer free, unlicensed VoiP calls and censor any content that goes against Islamic morality or includes drugs, nudity, gambling, or anti-government sentiments.

There are only two internet providers in the UAE and one is owned by the government and the other has connections with it.

Therefore any internet usage is monitored by the government.

As a result of the ban, residents typically have to use fee-based services from one of the country’s state telecoms providers.

There is currently no clear sign on if or when the ban may be lifted. 

What should I use instead of WhatsApp in Dubai?

Although there are several apps and functions blocked in Dubai, there are plenty of alternative options that can be accessed.

The UAE government would prefer users use their own apps that allow video and audio calling – one of which is BOTIM.

It offers similar services to WhatsApp, including video calls, the use of emojis, and the option to share photos.

The downside to the UAE created apps is that the government can monitor your usage on them.

The Dubai leadership has even said in the past that people can only use licensed services such as BOTIM, without spelling out the real reasons.

Other countries have made similar restrictions for security reasons – and to protect the revenues of telecoms providers.

Also available to use is the app C’ me – a high-quality call and messaging service that offers voice calls, video calls, and instant messaging.

It is very similar to WhatsApp in how it works and functions.

You can also use the calling and conference features in applications such as Google Hangouts, and Microsoft Teams that work universally.

However, there is no privacy – as all of the user’s information is passed along to the state.

Despite this, some tourists have discovered a loophole to the problem.

You can gain access to WhatsApp and other similar apps by downloading a VPN on your phone.

A VPN will allow your phone to appear as though it is in a different location and therefore have access to your favourite apps.