Best Video Calling Apps in UAE for 2025: Updated List

Are you struggling to find a video calling app that actually works in the UAE? Video calling in the UAE can be a bit nuanced, right? We’ve all been there: scrambling to find an app that actually works, dealing with frustrating “connection issues,” or wondering if that sketchy-looking download is even safe.

But the good news? There are plenty of great alternatives that work smoothly in the UAE—no VPNs or complicated setups needed.

In 2023, the video conferencing market was worth around $7.89 billion, and according to Precedence Research, it is expected to surge to $25.61 billion by 2033.

The key is finding an app that’s officially approved, offers high-quality video and audio, and doesn’t require complicated VPN setups. In this updated 2025 list, we’ve rounded up the best video calling apps that work in the UAE, including free and premium options.

So, let’s get started!

Best Free Calling Apps That Work in the UAE (2025 Edition)

Seeking reliable video and voice call applications under VoIP restrictions proves difficult because these regulations create challenging conditions. Even with the UAE’s VoIP restrictions, several premium and free calling apps in UAE operate smoothly—here’s a list of the best options.

1. Botim

Google Play Rating: 4.4 | Apple Store Rating: 4.3

User populations in the UAE endorse Botim as one of their primary video calling applications since the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has authorized it. 

The application allows secure communication through encrypted video and voice calls while delivering high-quality images between users and enables them to connect as a group of up to 21 participants.

Key Features: 

• AES-256 Encryption for secure communication
• Users get high-quality adaptive bitrate calls on the platform
• Botim Money for instant money transfers
• Users can play together on various online games through this platform.
• Botim Stores for in-app shopping

Note: With 100M+ downloads, Botim is a free app available on Android (5.0+) and iOS (12.0+), sized at 97 MB and 383 MB, respectively.

2. GoChat Messenger

Google Play Rating: 4.0 | Apple Store Rating: 2.7

Users can connect worldwide through free video calling with GoChat by Etisalat without needing a contract. Registration for this app requires only a phone number as opposed to the need for an Etisalat contract, which many other apps do require.

• High-quality video and audio communication with minimal delay in calls.
• Group Chats with fun features like stickers and GIFs
• Money Transfers for quick transactions
• News & Local Business Updates within the app
• Polls & Event Planning for easy coordination

Note: GoChat Messenger, a free messaging app with 5M+ downloads, requires Android 5.0+ or iOS 12.0+ and has sizes of 96 MB (Android) and 348.3 MB (iOS).

3. Zoom Workplace

Google Play Rating: 4.1 | Apple Store Rating: 4.6

Zoom has achieved worldwide recognition as the predominant solution for business and personal video meetings. The platform enables meetings of all scales, including webinars and virtual events, thus providing an ideal choice for academic and professional settings in the UAE.

Key Features:

• HD Video & Audio Conferencing for up to 1,000 participants
• Seamless collaboration through Screen Sharing and Annotation functionality.
• Virtual Backgrounds & Filters for personalization
• Breakout Rooms for small-group discussions
• Users can access recorded videos and transcriptions through simple reference features.

Note: With 1B+ downloads, Zoom Workplace is a free (basic) video conferencing app available for Android (6.0+) and iOS (13.0+), sized at 121 MB and 282 MB, respectively.

4. Microsoft Teams

Google Play Rating: 4.4 | Apple Store Rating: 4.8

Video conferencing platform Microsoft Teams presents professionals with a comprehensive toolset which operates smoothly with Microsoft 365 applications. The platform works perfectly in distant workplaces and business gatherings and enables team communication.

Key Features:

• One-to-One & Group Chats for seamless communication
• Allow access to Microsoft 365 tools including Word and Excel through this platform.
• Mentions & Activity feed to streamline teamwork.
• Enables Bots to execute tasks automatically while also handling meeting arrangements.

Note: Microsoft Teams, downloaded over 100M times, is free (basic) and compatible with iOS 16.0+ and various Android versions, with a size of 380.5 MB (Android) and 351.21 MB (iOS).

5. Google Meet

Google Play Rating: 4.5 | Apple Store Rating: 4.8

Google Meet delivers reliable video calling features to enable universal online communication. The platform was previously known as “Google Hangouts” before transitioning into the powerful virtual meeting solution which operates through web and mobile platforms. Users can easily join meetings through an easy-to-use interface using their Google account credentials.

Key Features:

• Makes it simple to collaborate and share material in real time.
•  Uses cutting-edge encryption techniques to ensure safe meetings.
•  For accessibility, it offers real-time transcriptions.
•  Connects to Google Drive for file management and recording.
•  Limits participant information to hosts, protecting user privacy.

Note: With 100M+ downloads, Google Meet is a free (basic) video calling app that requires 31 MB on Android and iOS 16.0 or later, with a file size of 351.21 MB on Android and 380.5 MB on iOS.

6. Voico

Apple Store Rating: 3.6

TDRA approval enables consumers in the UAE to use Voico to make free calls with high-quality voice and video functions. Users can access real-time messaging features and share media content with protected group chat capabilities through this application.

Key Features:

• Permits high-quality voice messaging featuring noise reduction capabilities.
• Works efficiently in low-bandwidth areas.
• Group Chat feature provides options to share media content as well as conduct polls and make announcements.
• End-to-End Encryption safeguards all user data by ensuring full security throughout conversations.
• Users can customize their profiles by adding images and statuses for personalization.
• This VoIP application provides free service at 267.7 MB file size and requires iOS version 10.0.

Note: Available for free on iOS, Voico requires iOS 10.0 or later and has a size of 267.7 MB.

7. Telegram

Google Play Rating: 3.9 | Apple Store Rating: 4.1

The secure video calling capabilities of Telegram make this messaging platform a preferred choice for both social networking and business communications among numerous users.

Key Features:

• Each group chat and channel in Telegram can contain a maximum of 200000 members.
• Users can send self-destructing messages while enjoying end-to-end encryption through Secret Chat.
• The Instant View feature provides quick access to shared articles without requiring a user to exit the application.
• Live Locations feature allows users to share their real-time location for enhanced coordination.
• Provide secure storage for ID verification.
• Users can download Telegram for free and the Android version requires 14 MB storage space while iOS requires 166.6 MB.

Note:  Telegram, a widely used free app, has surpassed 1B downloads and supports Android (varies by device) and iOS 12.0+, with a size of 14 MB on Android and 166.6 MB on iOS.

8. Avaya Spaces

Google Play Rating: 4.4 | Apple Store Rating: 4.5

Avaya Spaces delivers an all-in-one collaboration platform through its feature set that enables both video conferencing, messaging, and provides task management capabilities with added third-party interface options.

Key Features:

• Makes calls more clear by filtering out background noise.
• Task management involves setting deadlines for tasks and keeping track of them.
• Activity Stream provides real-time notifications for updates.
• Avaya Contact Center Integration streamlines business communications.
• XT Video System Connectivity enables high-quality video conferencing.

Note: With 100K+ downloads, Avaya Spaces is a free app requiring Android 6.0+ (20.2 MB) and iOS 12.0+ (64.3 MB).

9. Imo-International

Google Play Rating: 4.3 | Apple Store Rating: 4.2

Imo is a popular app that provides users with high-definition video and voice calls alongside safe messaging capabilities and secure media sharing capabilities.

Key Features: 

• It ensures minimal latency, allowing for smooth, uninterrupted, and high-quality calls.
• Automatically erases communications to ensure user privacy.
• Block Screenshot feature obstructs sneak attempts to capture screenshots from users’ conversations.
• It provides a seamless way to share large files, enhancing communication efficiency.

Note: Users can download this application for free with Android devices taking up 48 MB while iOS versions require 224 MB storage.

10. BiP

Google Play Rating: 4.1 | Apple Store Rating: 4.4

Users can leverage BiP’s secure messaging functions in multiple languages through an integrated help center that assures effortless communication.

Key Features:

• BiP facilitates smooth communication by supporting multimedia sharing and instant messaging.
• Take advantage of crystal-clear and uninterrupted interactions with high-quality voice and video calls.
• BiP Discover provides news, sports, and entertainment updates to keep you informed.
• To make it easier to coordinate with friends and family, share your current location.
• Enjoy the integrated games and interactive features for a captivating experience.

Note: Available for free, BiP has over 50 million downloads and supports Android 6.0+ (67 MB) and iOS 13.6+ (324.5 MB).

Factors to Keep in Mind for the Best Video Calling Experience

People need to examine key elements precisely before selecting their ideal video calling application to achieve both security and smooth workflow. Evaluating the best video calling app demands assessment of these vital points.

1. Call Quality and Stability

Users should seek out video calling applications that produce optimal high definition resolution, superior audio clarity without experiencing excessive delay or interruptions. A stable connection that maintains its performance during changes in internet speed allows users to maintain continuous chats with no interruptions or loading delays.

2. Security and Privacy

User data privacy stands as a fundamental priority for the platform. A suitable application should provide end-to-end encryption to maintain privacy through secure communication between users. Password protection for meetings combined with two-factor authentication provide users with additional security measures.

3. Device Compatibility and Accessibility

A great video calling solution must support all major operating systems such as iOS and Android, together with Windows and macOS. A system that integrates multiple devices lets users transition between platforms without limitations so they can stay connected on their preferred platform.

4. Features and User Experience

Advanced capabilities that include group calling together with screen sharing, instant messaging and file sharing functionalities transform video calls into effective collaboration tools. The app needs to provide a user-friendly interface which allows simple navigation so both technical experts and novice users can operate it effectively.

5. Regulatory Compliance in the UAE

Every video calling application in the UAE must meet local telephone restrictions. Users must check for UAE regulation approval by Etisalat and Du because providers approve certain apps before they become accessible. This eliminates the need for VPNs to maintain uninterrupted communication.

How to Access and Use Video Calling Apps in the UAE

UAE’s strict telecom regulation prevents several video calling programs from operating freely. Users must select from a list of telecom-endorsed applications or explore other options for accessing prohibited services. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Telecom-Approved Video Calling Apps

The UAE telecom providers Etisalat and Du officially license and support certain communications applications. Users need to pay for a subscription to access these apps.

• BOTIM – One of the most popular voice and video call apps accessible through UAE telecom plans.
• C’Me – Provides HD calling and messaging capabilities but needs an active subscription.
• Voico – Another approved substitute with video and voice calling features.

2. Restricted Apps and VPN Usage

Users in the UAE cannot access the free versions of Facebook apps WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Skype or the IMO and Zoom platforms. Users employ Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to break restrictions on their devices but should be aware of several vital aspects.

• The use of a VPN will breach UAE cyber regulations and potentially incur fines or prosecution.
• Certain VPNs function in the short term but get blocked eventually.
• The government regularly revises rules, so policies can shift.

3. Understanding UAE VPN Policies

The UAE does not forbid VPN usage, but it maintains specific regulations that limit its usage for accessing blocked VoIP services. It is advisable to:

• Follow the latest telecom regulations through official government channels.
• Telecom-approved applications offer users a smooth experience without problems.
• The use of unauthorized services can endanger user privacy and security.

Wrapping Up

The use of Skype and WhatsApp remains prohibited in the United Arab Emirates because of laws established to protect local telecom income streams. Several law-compliant options exist which enable residents and expatriates to communicate freely.

Do you intend to create video calling applications for the UAE market as user demand continues to increase?  We help you transform your concepts into functional applications. 

Our team of expert developers builds secure and optimized communication platforms that meet all local regulatory requirements of the region.

We have built multiple innovative video calling applications which successfully satisfy both industry specifications and end-user needs. Our team delivers end-to-end application development service, which includes UI/UX design, essential features such as real-time messaging, end-to-end encryption, and HD video quality.

We provide comprehensive mobile app maintenance services to ensure your application operates optimally while offering support which guarantees your app’s long-term success.