20+ Best Video Calling Apps in the UAE
28 OCTOBER
One of the fastest-growing regions in the world, the United Arab Emirates is ranked among the top super-digital regions globally — a market that’s rapidly embracing mobile app development to support its smart city ambitions and digital innovation.
With over 99% internet penetration, according to Datareportal, and a multicultural population, the demand for top video calling apps in the UAE has surged. For many who are thankful to stay healthy, face-to-face visits and gatherings were moved online this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
However, due to VoIP regulations by the TDRA, popular apps like WhatsApp and Skype have limited video calling functionalities, leading residents and businesses to search for apps that function effectively and are legally compliant. By 2026, clarity about which apps are reliable and approved will be crucial.
Here, we review 20+ of the best free video calling apps in the UAE, highlighting their features and potential personal or professional uses.
What Are Video Calling Apps?
A video call app is an application program that enables real-time visual communication over the internet, via a computer or mobile phone, similar to making a telephone call. These apps can do more than merely display message bubbles and notifications; they can run any code the app is built with, such as HD video or audio, secure group conferencing, and other fun features like screen sharing and file transfer.
In the UAE, these platforms are more than just communication tools; they also serve as a means of social connection.
Why People Search for the UAE free video calling apps 2026
Because several global applications are still blocked, people frequently wonder: “Which free video calling apps work in UAE?” That’s why you need to know about the best calling apps that work in the UAE, whether they’re free or paid.
Here’s why demand is so high in 2026:
- Regulatory Restrictions
Apps such as WhatsApp, FaceTime (until some recent updates), and Skype are limited to video calls. As a consequence, UAE residents stick to the trusted and officially permitted UAE free video calling apps 2026.
- Expat Population
As a majority of the UAE’s population is expatriate, apps for international video calls in the UAE continue to experience heavy traffic as many get in touch with their families.
- Business Transformation
The hybrid work model has accelerated the use of online chat and video call apps in the UAE. Enterprises now require apps with high security, compliance, and scalability.
- Technology Growth
Telecom companies, including Etisalat, have teamed up with platforms (for example, GoChat or Botim) to provide the best government-approved video calling apps in Dubai that are of excellent quality and available throughout the UAE.
- Cross-Device Usage
Are there any free video calling apps? Am I the only one who has to look for the best video calling apps for Android in the UAE, or do you have an iPhone?
20+ Best Video Calling Apps in the UAE
When it comes to selecting the best video calling apps in the UAE, it can be quite confusing, as you can’t use WhatsApp and Skype easily here due to VoIP restrictions. Here is a collection of over 20 free and safe video call apps in the UAE that are legal according to internet calling app laws in the UAE as of 2026.
1. Botim
Botim is one of the video call apps widely used in the UAE and can be used with Etisalat and du. It makes a good connection and has become one of the first choices for millions of local residents.
Features:
- Supports HD video and voice calls, allowing for clear conversations even over a poor network.
- Support group calling & chatting enable your family and team to talk together.
2. C’Me
C’Me is another teleco-approved service in the UAE that offers high-quality video and audio calls. It’s light and available on several devices.
Features:
- HD video and voice calls with minimal delay for talking to grandma and grandpa.
- Stickers, pictures, and videos can be shared for a more interactive chat.
3. Voico
Voico UAE is recognized as one of the most widely used and free video call apps UAE, enabling users to send and receive messages as well. It’s an adjustable option for students or working professionals.
Features:
- Offers the function of video and voice calls with good quality and stability at any time, so you don’t need to worry. Round-the-clock video chat room for all!
- It allows you to share files and make group comments for better teamwork.
4. HiU Messenger
HiU Messenger is a UAE-approved video call app for easy and secure communications. It’s a popular choice for families and professionals seeking a straightforward option.
Features:
- Delivers clear audio and video calls with fewer dropped calls, even on older, slower connections.
- Features include uploading and group chat support, and users can stay productive on the move.
5. YzerChat
YzerChat, unlike other video calling apps in Dubai, even offers translated chat – a game-changer for the UAE’s diverse population that can speak as many as seven languages.
Features:
- Provides the ability to make high-quality audio and video calls at no cost.
- Real-time translation from 20+ languages for expatriates coming from different countries.
6. Zoom
Zoom is the standard for modern enterprise video communications and is popular across all markets. UAE businesses and organizations utilize it as one of the top video calling apps.
Features:
- HD video conferencing with screen sharing and recording for professionals.
- It can host huge meetings and webinars, making it useful for businesses and institutions.
7. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams offers secure video conferencing, messaging, and content sharing for professionals.
Features:
- Offers video calls with live file editing and sharing features.
- Integrate well with Microsoft 365 to be a perfect productivity suite.
8. Google Meet
Top free apps for family video calling in the UAE via Google Duo (formerly Google Meet).
Features:
- Provides free HD video calls and screen sharing from any device.
- Offers Gmail and Google Calendar integration, making scheduling easier.
9. Skype for Business (UAE Version)
Although one-to-one Skype video calls are blocked, Skype for Business is an application approved for video calls in the UAE under enterprise accounts.
Features:
- Provides a safe, virtual meeting space for all groups in any size organization.
- It has collaboration tools and the ability to integrate with the Microsoft world.
10. JusTalk
JusTalk is a free video calling application aimed at the young in the UAE, and offers fun yet secure social media features like Free random calls, Fun Video Calls, Voice “Social” Calls, and Interactive Video Features for free via the Chat Feature of the app.
Features:
- Offers stable, encrypted free voice and video calls.
- Provides in-call games and doodling tools to have fun during calls.
11. BOTIM Business
BOTIM Business, a business version of the hugely popular personal app BOTIM, offers a simple and clear interface to protect companies’ own corporate privacy.
Features:
- Delivers secure business-grade video calls with superior connection quality.
- Provides team collaboration features, such as file sharing and messaging.
12. Signal
Signal has a reputation for being privacy-oriented around the world, including the UAE, where it is also used as a secure free messaging app that supports encrypted voice and video calls.
Features:
- Provides you with end-to-end encrypted video and audio calls, ensuring maximum privacy and security.
- File sharing and messaging are supported, and encryption is in place.
13. IMO
IMO has gained traction among the expat community in the UAE and offers a crisp chat interface, as well as support for voice and video calls.
Features:
- Offers free video and voice calls with minimal data usage.
- Supports group calls/ media and shared family calendars. Wonderful way for families to stay in touch.
14. Facebook Messenger
Although Facebook Messenger is restricted for video calls in the UAE, it can still be used on certain telecom-approved packages.
Features:
- Provides chat, media sharing, and limited video calling from the UAE.
- Easily connect to Facebook and continue the conversation.
15. Viber
Viber is a free and secure app that offers messaging and video calling features. It is still an expat favourite for those living in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Features:
- Offers free encrypted video and voice calls to users around the world.
- Option to share files, group bit of a boo-boo, and throw a QR party.
16. GoChat Messenger (Etisalat)
GoChat is the UAE’s official free video calling app, brought to you by Etisalat, that combines everything within one app, including messaging, payments, and high-quality video and voice calls.
Features:
- Features HD video calls and chat messaging, certified by Etisalat.
- Combines digital payments and lifestyle functions, no longer just a calling app.
17. Totok
Totok became popular in the UAE due to its offer of free video calling, but it has been embroiled in controversy. Others continue to use it because of its simplicity.
Features:
- Offers high-quality free video and audio calls.
- A multifunctional tool with messaging, group chat, and file sharing included.
18. Botim for Android TV
This Botim TV version also allows you to use TV view, making group video calls more engaging and immersive.
Features:
- Direct Video Calling on your TV for a larger-than-life experience.
- Supports integration with the Botim mobile app for easy account synchronisation.
19. FaceTime (iPhone only)
FaceTime is available as a built-in app for all iOS devices, and the service has recently been supported more in the UAE, so it is one of the best video calling apps for iPhone in the UAE.
Features:
- Delivers high-quality video and audio calls over Apple devices.
- You can also call groups, share your screen, and send emojis for iOS.
20. Google Duo (Now merged with Meet)
Top free apps for family video calling in the UAE via Google Duo (head now included with Google Meet).
Features:
- Provides simple, high-quality one-to-one video calls.
- Syncs Android, iOS, and mobile devices for multi-tier use.
21. WhatsApp (Restricted for Video Calls)
Considering how universally popular the app is, WhatsApp video calls are restricted here in the UAE. That said, it continues to be a leading chat and messaging app with ways around through telecom-sanctioned bundles.
Features:
- Offers encrypted chat, media sharing, and sends free messages in the UAE.
- With business accounts and file-sharing modules, but video calls are limited.
Conclusion: Partner with Codeflash Infotech for Video Calling App Development
Such connections, to the UAE’s businesses and expat communities, are on hold while we rely on video calling to stay in touch. By 2026, a second wave of trusted online video calling apps in the UAE is likely to emerge, ranging from free options like Botim and Voico to enterprise-focused solutions such as Zoom and Teams.
The growing requirement presents an opportunity for UAE enterprises and entrepreneurs to offer unique online video calling apps that comply with local legislation and assure global connectivity.
Codeflash Infotech specializes in developing secure, scalable, and reliable communication systems powered by AI. So, if you want to build one of the best calling apps that work in the UAE for families or business-ready online video calling apps in the UAE.
Get in touch with us and build your video calling app to make the first move towards perceiving a communication transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apps such as Botim, C’Me, Voico, HiU Messenger, and GoChat have been given the green light by the UAE’s telecoms regulator to offer online calls.
Botim, Voico, IMO, and JusTalk are the top free video calling apps for families in the UAE, offering simple and affordable connectivity.
For enterprises, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Skype for Business are the most secure and scalable choices.
