Calling the UAE from India is a common need for many people. Whether you have family, friends, or business contacts in the United Arab Emirates, knowing how to make a clear and affordable call is important. You might be wondering about the best dialing codes, calling apps, or international plans to use. I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to connect easily.
In this article, you’ll learn the exact steps to call UAE from India, including the country codes, dialing formats, and tips to save money. We’ll also explore popular calling apps and alternatives to traditional phone calls. By the end, you’ll feel confident making international calls without confusion or extra charges.
Understanding International Calling Basics
Before you dial, it’s good to understand how international calls work. When calling from India to the UAE, you need to use specific codes to connect your call correctly.
- Exit Code (IDD Code): This is the code you dial to get out of India’s phone system. For India, it’s 00.
- Country Code for UAE: The UAE’s country code is 971.
- Area Code: UAE cities have area codes, but when calling from abroad, you usually drop the leading zero.
- Local Number: The phone number of the person or business you want to reach.
So, the basic format to call UAE from India is:
00 + 971 + Area Code (without 0) + Local Number
For example, if you want to call a Dubai number (area code 4) and the local number is 1234567, you would dial:
00 971 4 1234567
This format applies to both landlines and mobile numbers in the UAE.
Step-by-Step Guide to Calling UAE from India
Here’s a simple step-by-step process to make your call:
Check Your Phone Plan
Confirm with your Indian mobile or landline provider if international calling is enabled. Some plans require activation or additional charges.
Dial the Exit Code
Start by dialing 00 to signal an international call.
Enter the UAE Country Code
Dial 971 after the exit code.
Add the Area Code
For landlines, use the city’s area code without the leading zero. For mobiles, just dial the mobile number after the country code.
Dial the Local Number
Enter the remaining digits of the phone number.
Press Call
Wait for the call to connect.
Example
If you want to call a mobile number in Abu Dhabi, say 050 123 4567, you would dial:
00 971 50 123 4567
Note: UAE mobile numbers start with 50, 55, 56, or 58.
Using Mobile Phones to Call UAE
Calling UAE from an Indian mobile phone is straightforward but requires some attention to details:
- International Calling Enabled: Make sure your SIM card supports international calls.
- Check Rates: International calls can be expensive. Check your carrier’s rates for calling UAE.
- Use the Plus (+) Sign: On smartphones, you can replace the exit code “00” with a plus sign (+). For example:
+971 50 123 4567
This method is often easier and works on most mobile networks.
Affordable Alternatives to Traditional Calls
International calls can be costly, but there are cheaper or free alternatives you can use:
1. Internet Calling Apps
Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Google Meet, and Zoom allow you to call UAE contacts using the internet. You only need a good Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.
- WhatsApp: Free voice and video calls to other WhatsApp users.
- Skype: Offers free Skype-to-Skype calls and paid calls to landlines and mobiles.
- Google Meet/ Duo: Easy video and voice calls with Google accounts.
2. Calling Cards
International calling cards can reduce costs. You buy a card with a set amount of credit and dial a local access number before entering the UAE number.
3. VoIP Services
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like Vonage or Rebtel offer affordable international calling plans.
Tips to Save Money When Calling UAE
Here are some practical tips to keep your calling costs low:
- Compare Carrier Rates: Different Indian carriers have different international rates. Check plans from Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea, etc.
- Use Wi-Fi Calling: When possible, use Wi-Fi to avoid mobile data charges.
- Schedule Calls Wisely: Some carriers offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours.
- Use Apps for Free Calls: Encourage your UAE contacts to use apps like WhatsApp for free communication.
- Buy International Calling Packs: Many carriers offer special packs for calling UAE at discounted rates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Calling UAE from India
To avoid call failures or extra charges, watch out for these common mistakes:
- Forgetting the Exit Code: Always start with 00 or +.
- Using the Wrong Country Code: UAE’s code is 971, not 972 or others.
- Including Leading Zero in Area Code: Drop the zero when dialing internationally.
- Not Checking Your Plan: Ensure international calling is enabled.
- Ignoring Time Differences: UAE is 1.5 hours ahead of India, so call at appropriate times.
How to Call UAE Landlines vs. Mobile Numbers
The dialing process is similar but slightly different for landlines and mobiles.
| Type | Dialing Format | Example |
| Landline | 00 + 971 + Area Code + Number | 00 971 4 1234567 (Dubai) |
| Mobile | 00 + 971 + Mobile Code + Number | 00 971 50 1234567 |
Mobile codes in UAE usually start with 50, 55, 56, or 58. Landline area codes vary by emirate, such as 2 for Abu Dhabi, 4 for Dubai, 6 for Sharjah.
Using Calling Apps to Connect with UAE
If you prefer internet-based calls, here’s how to use popular apps:
- WhatsApp: Save the UAE contact with +971 country code. Open chat and tap the call icon.
- Skype: Buy Skype credit or subscription. Dial the UAE number with country code.
- Google Duo/Meet: Use the contact’s email or phone number to start a call.
- Zoom: Schedule meetings or calls with UAE contacts.
These apps offer video and voice calls, often with better quality and no extra cost beyond your internet data.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your call to UAE doesn’t connect, try these fixes:
- Check Number Format: Ensure you dialed the correct exit code, country code, and number.
- Verify International Calling is Active: Contact your carrier.
- Restart Your Phone: Sometimes a simple reboot helps.
- Try Using the Plus (+) Sign: Instead of 00, use +971.
- Use a Different Network or Wi-Fi: Network issues can block international calls.
Conclusion
Now you know how to call UAE from India easily and affordably. Remember to use the correct dialing format: start with 00 or +, then 971, followed by the area or mobile code and the local number. Check your phone plan for international calling and consider using internet apps like WhatsApp or Skype to save money.
By following these steps and tips, you can stay connected with your UAE contacts without hassle or high costs. Whether for personal or business reasons, making international calls is simple once you understand the process. So, pick up your phone and start calling UAE today!
FAQs
How do I dial a UAE mobile number from India?
Dial 00 or +, then 971, followed by the mobile code (like 50, 55), and the local number. For example, 00 971 50 1234567.
Can I use WhatsApp to call UAE numbers?
Yes, WhatsApp allows free voice and video calls to UAE contacts using the internet.
Are international calling rates high from India to UAE?
Rates vary by carrier, but international calls can be expensive. Using calling apps or special plans can reduce costs.
What is the UAE country code for calling from India?
The UAE country code is 971.
Do I need to activate international calling on my Indian phone?
Yes, most carriers require you to enable international calling before making calls abroad. Check with your provider.
