Sipu Jha
WhatsApp has begun a global rollout of voice and video calling features on WhatsApp Web, allowing users to make and receive calls directly from their browser without installing the desktop app. This update brings long-awaited calling functionality to the web version of the platform, complementing its existing messaging and media sharing features.
What WhatsApp Web calling offers
WhatsApp Web’s new calling update enables:
- One-on-one voice and
video calls directly through the web browser. - End-to-end encryption for privacy, similar to mobile and desktop apps.
- Call icons in chats that let users initiate calls without opening WhatsApp on a phone or desktop app.
This rollout is still in a staged beta phase, meaning not all users see it yet but Meta is gradually expanding access. There are also plans for future enhancements such as group calling and call links that could allow multiple users to join web calls.
UAE regulations: The WhatsApp Web calling catch
Despite this global update, voice and video calls via WhatsApp, whether on mobile, desktop or web, remain blocked in the UAE under current laws.
Why are WhatsApp calls blocked in the UAE?
The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) enforces strict Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP) rules that only allow licensed or approved providers to offer internet calling services. WhatsApp’s internet calling is not on the approved list, so telecom operators like Etisalat and du block these features.
This restriction applies to:
- WhatsApp voice calls
- WhatsApp video calls
- Internet calling features on WhatsApp Web
In contrast, text messaging, media sharing, file transfers and other non-voice features on WhatsApp and WhatsApp Web work normally in the UAE.
WhatsApp alternatives UAE residents can use
Although WhatsApp calling is restricted locally, there are legal alternatives that support voice and video calls in the UAE –
- BOTIM: A licensed VoIP app often used by residents to make Internet calls.
- GoChat, Voico and similar local VoIP providers: Compliant with UAE telecom rules.
- Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams: Popular video conferencing tools that work well over UAE networks.
These apps comply with UAE VoIP regulations and are widely used for both personal and professional communication.
Why WhatsApp restrictions in UAE exist
The UAE’s restrictions on internet calling are rooted in:
- Telecom licensing policies that require VoIP services to be provided by, or coordinated with, licensed operators.
- Regulatory oversight of communications traffic for security and compliance.
- Protecting revenue models of telecom providers built around traditional voice services.
Despite periodic speculation about policy changes, the UAE continues to enforce these VoIP regulations strictly as of early 2026.
The future: Will WhatsApp calls ever work in the UAE?
WhatsApp Web calling works globally for users where it has been rolled out. In the UAE, WhatsApp voice and video calls remain blocked, including on web, mobile, and desktop clients. Messaging and media features on WhatsApp Web are still fully available. Users who need calling features locally should use approved VoIP apps like BOTIM or Zoom.There has been occasional industry talk about regulatory tweaks or collaborations that might open the door to WhatsApp calling in the future but no formal policy shift has been announced as of 2026 and the TDRA’s VoIP framework maintains current restrictions. In the meantime, WhatsApp Web’s new voice and video calling feature is technically available in markets where regulations permit it but UAE residents will still need alternative apps to make internet calls locally.
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