With the rise of video calling apps like FaceTime, Skype, WhatsApp, and others, many people are turning to video chat as a convenient way to communicate with family, friends, and business contacts around the world. However, the legality of using certain apps for video calling can vary depending on which country you are in. For those visiting or living in Dubai, understanding the laws around video calling is important.
The legality of video calling apps in Dubai
The United Arab Emirates, of which Dubai is a part, has some restrictions on the use of video calling apps. Apps like FaceTime and Skype for audio and video calling are generally blocked in the UAE by the telecommunications regulators. However, there are still ways to legally use these apps in Dubai.
For personal use, people in Dubai often use virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass blocks and access apps like FaceTime and Skype to video chat with friends and family abroad. While VPNs are technically illegal in the UAE, there is little enforcement for personal usage. However, free public VPNs often have bandwidth restrictions that can affect call quality.
For business purposes, companies in Dubai can apply for special licenses to use blocked apps and software if they are required for work. With a license, companies can legally use VPNs or other means to access apps like Skype for business video conferencing and calling. Most major hotels, conference centers, and freezones in Dubai allow the use of these apps for their business clients and guests.
Rules and etiquette for video calls in Dubai
If you plan to use video calling while visiting or living in Dubai, there are some general rules and etiquette to keep in mind:
- Be mindful of your surroundings – Avoid making video calls in public places or filming anything without permission.
- Dress appropriately – The UAE has public decency laws so dress conservatively during any video calls.
- Be aware of Islamic prayer times – Avoid making loud video calls during the 5 daily prayer times.
- Don’t discuss prohibited topics – Avoid sensitive subjects like politics, religion or relationships.
- Follow any special settings – If you are video calling in a public place like a mall, hotel, or restaurant, check for any posted rules or settings required.
In general, exercise common sense and conservative behavior when video calling or using your phone camera in public in Dubai. Be respectful of local laws and culture. As long as you follow the rules, video calling can be used conveniently while living in or visiting the city.
Legal video calling apps in Dubai
While apps like FaceTime and Skype are restricted in Dubai, there are several legal and popular apps people use for video calls and conferencing:
WhatsApp is one of the most commonly used chat apps in the UAE and works well for both text chats and audio/video calls. WhatsApp uses an internet connection and allows up to 4 people on a video call.
Zoom
Zoom has grown as a top app for video conferences and webinars. The paid Zoom plans work well in Dubai for business meetings and group video calls.
Google Hangouts
Google Hangouts is accessible in the UAE and is a free option for video chats with friends, family or business contacts. Video quality can vary.
Botim
Botim is a UAE based app that provides low cost video calling to any number internationally. It has an easy interface and call quality is generally reliable.
Facebook Messenger
Facebook Messenger works in the UAE and allows free video calls of up to 8 people simultaneously. Call quality can vary but it works well for casual video chats.
There are no shortages of apps to choose from for legal video calling in Dubai. While FaceTime and Skype don’t work without a VPN, apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, Hangouts, Botim and Messenger can provide convenient and reliable video chatting while living in or visiting Dubai.
Public places allowing video calls in Dubai
While caution is advised with video calling in public in Dubai, there are some places that accommodate and cater towards video calls and business meetings:
- Hotels – Most major hotels have business centers or meeting rooms available for rent that are equipped for video conferencing and calls.
- Coworking spaces – Spaces like WeWork allow video calls from dedicated office spaces or meeting rooms.
- Cafes and restaurants – Some cafes and restaurants advertise strong WiFi suitable for working and video calls.
- Malls – Major malls like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates have areas designated for video calls and virtual meetings.
- Freezones – Dubai’s freezones have facilities for companies to use video calling and conferencing services.
When in doubt, look for signs posted in facilities that indicate designated areas, required settings, or any rules for making video calls on the premises. Usage fees may apply at some locations.
Data security and privacy
When making video calls over the internet, data security and privacy should always be considered:
- Use apps and platforms that offer end-to-end encryption for your video calls whenever possible.
- Avoid accessing sensitive accounts like banking or email during video calls on public networks.
- Beware of allowing access to your camera or microphone unless you explicitly trust all participants.
- Disable automatic permissions for apps to access your camera, microphone, contacts, etc. and only allow when needed.
- Use strong passwords and frequent changes to protect your accounts.
Also be aware that even legal video calling apps may be subject to government monitoring and recording when being used in the UAE, so don’t discuss any prohibited or extremely sensitive topics.
Keeping calls private from those around you in public in Dubai can also be courtesy. Use headphones and speak at a reasonable volume or move locations if your conversation may disturb others.
Conclusion
Video calling can be a great way to communicate visually with loved ones abroad or conduct business meetings while living in or visiting Dubai. While apps like FaceTime and Skype are restricted, there are many legal options for video calls like WhatsApp, Zoom, Hangouts, Botim and Facebook Messenger.
Be aware of your surroundings when video chatting in public, avoid insensitive topics, and take steps to protect your privacy. With some common sense practices, video calling can provide an convenient way to stay connected and communicate during your time in Dubai.