How to Call Dubai: A Comprehensive Guide to Dialing the UAE
Calling Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), might seem straightforward, but understanding the correct dialing codes and available options is crucial for a successful connection. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you can easily reach friends, family, or business contacts in Dubai.
Understanding the Basics: Country Code, Area Code, and Phone Number
Before you even think about dialing, it’s vital to understand the three core components of an international phone number:
* **Country Code:** This is a one to three-digit number that identifies the country you are calling. For the UAE, the country code is **+971**.
* **Area Code:** Also known as a city code, this identifies a specific region within a country. Dubai and Sharjah share the same area code: **4**. This means when calling a landline in Dubai, you will use the area code ‘4’.
* **Local Phone Number:** This is the unique number assigned to a specific phone line or mobile device within the area code.
Step-by-Step Guide to Calling Dubai
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to call Dubai from anywhere in the world:
**Step 1: Exit Code (International Access Code)**
Before dialing the country code, you need to dial the exit code for your country. The exit code tells your phone network that you are making an international call. Here are a few common exit codes:
* **United States and Canada:** 011
* **United Kingdom:** 00
* **Australia:** 0011
* **Europe:** 00
* **Japan:** 010
If you’re unsure of your country’s exit code, you can easily find it with a quick online search (e.g., “exit code for [your country]”).
**Step 2: Dial the UAE Country Code (+971)**
After the exit code, dial the country code for the UAE, which is **971**.
**Step 3: Dial the Dubai Area Code (4)**
Next, dial the area code for Dubai, which is **4**. This is specifically for landline numbers. If you are calling a mobile number, you will skip the area code (4) and go directly to the mobile number prefix.
**Step 4: Dial the Local Phone Number**
Finally, dial the local phone number of the person or business you are trying to reach in Dubai. This is typically a seven-digit number.
**Putting it All Together: Example Call**
Let’s say you are calling a Dubai landline from the United States. The Dubai landline number is 1234567. Here’s how you would dial it:
1. **Exit Code (United States):** 011
2. **UAE Country Code:** 971
3. **Dubai Area Code:** 4
4. **Local Phone Number:** 1234567
Therefore, the complete number you would dial is: **011-971-4-1234567**
## Calling Dubai Mobile Numbers
Calling a mobile phone in Dubai is slightly different. You need to know the mobile prefix, which typically starts with a ‘5’. Here’s how to call a Dubai mobile number:
**Step 1: Exit Code (International Access Code)**
As before, start with your country’s exit code.
**Step 2: Dial the UAE Country Code (+971)**
Dial the UAE country code, which is 971.
**Step 3: Dial the Mobile Prefix (e.g., 50, 52, 54, 55, 56, 58)**
Dubai mobile numbers usually start with prefixes like 50, 52, 54, 55, 56, or 58. You will need to know the specific prefix for the mobile number you are calling. For example, if the mobile number starts with 50, you would dial ’50’ after the country code.
**Step 4: Dial the Remaining Mobile Number Digits**
After the mobile prefix, dial the remaining digits of the mobile number. Typically, there will be eight digits following the ‘5’ prefix, making the mobile number a total of nine digits including the initial ‘5’.
**Putting it All Together: Example Mobile Call**
Let’s say you are calling a Dubai mobile number from the United Kingdom. The Dubai mobile number is 50-9876543. Here’s how you would dial it:
1. **Exit Code (United Kingdom):** 00
2. **UAE Country Code:** 971
3. **Mobile Prefix:** 50
4. **Remaining Mobile Number Digits:** 9876543
Therefore, the complete number you would dial is: **00-971-50-9876543**
**Important Note:** Make sure you have the correct mobile prefix. Incorrect prefixes will result in your call not connecting.
## Alternative Ways to Call Dubai
While traditional dialing is reliable, several alternative options can be more cost-effective, especially for frequent international calls:
* **Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services:** Services like Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and Google Voice allow you to make calls over the internet. These services often offer significantly lower rates for international calls, and some even offer free calls to other users of the same service.
* **Skype:** A popular VoIP service that offers both free calls to other Skype users and paid calls to landlines and mobile phones worldwide. You’ll need to purchase Skype Credit or a subscription to call Dubai numbers.
* **WhatsApp:** Primarily a messaging app, WhatsApp also offers voice and video calling features. Calls to other WhatsApp users are free, regardless of location. However, you can’t use WhatsApp to call regular landline or mobile numbers that aren’t associated with a WhatsApp account.
* **Viber:** Similar to WhatsApp, Viber offers free calls and messaging to other Viber users. Viber Out allows you to call non-Viber numbers at competitive rates.
* **Google Voice:** Google Voice offers both free and paid international calling options. The rates to Dubai are typically very competitive, and it integrates seamlessly with other Google services.
* **Mobile Apps with International Calling Features:** Many mobile apps specialize in offering affordable international calls. Examples include:
* **Rebtel:** Rebtel uses local phone lines whenever possible to reduce the cost of international calls. It offers various calling plans and pay-as-you-go options.
* **Vonage Mobile:** Vonage is a well-established VoIP provider that also offers mobile apps for international calling. It often includes international calling in its monthly plans.
* **Localphone:** Localphone offers very competitive rates for international calls by using call-back technology. You dial a local number, and Localphone calls you back and connects you to the international number.
* **International Calling Cards:** While less common now, international calling cards can still be a viable option, especially if you don’t have reliable internet access. You purchase a card with a specific amount of credit and use it to make calls at discounted rates. Be sure to compare rates carefully, as some cards have hidden fees.
## Tips for Saving Money on Calls to Dubai
* **Compare Rates:** Don’t just stick with your default phone provider. Compare the rates offered by different VoIP services, mobile apps, and international calling cards to find the most affordable option.
* **Consider a Calling Plan:** If you make frequent calls to Dubai, a dedicated international calling plan might be more cost-effective than pay-as-you-go rates. Many providers offer plans that include a certain number of minutes to specific countries.
* **Use Wi-Fi:** When using VoIP services or mobile apps, connect to a Wi-Fi network to avoid using your mobile data. This can save you significant data charges, especially when traveling.
* **Call During Off-Peak Hours:** Some phone companies offer lower rates for international calls made during off-peak hours, which are typically evenings and weekends in your local time zone. However, be mindful of the time difference between your location and Dubai.
* **Time Zone Considerations:** Dubai is in the Gulf Standard Time (GST) zone, which is UTC+4. Keep this time difference in mind when scheduling calls to ensure you are not calling at inconvenient hours.
* **Encourage Use of Messaging Apps:** If possible, encourage your contacts in Dubai to use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram for text communication. These apps are typically free to use over Wi-Fi and can significantly reduce your communication costs.
## Troubleshooting Common Calling Problems
* **Incorrect Dialing Sequence:** Double-check that you are dialing the correct exit code, country code, area code (if applicable), and local phone number. Even a single digit error can prevent the call from connecting.
* **Blocked International Calls:** Your phone provider may have blocked international calls by default. Contact your provider to enable international calling on your account.
* **Poor Call Quality:** Poor call quality can be caused by a weak internet connection (for VoIP calls) or network congestion. Try switching to a different Wi-Fi network or calling at a different time.
* **Call Not Connecting:** If your call is not connecting, the number you are dialing may be incorrect or the phone line in Dubai may be temporarily out of service. Try calling again later.
* **Roaming Charges (If Calling From Abroad):** If you are calling Dubai from another country, be aware of roaming charges from your mobile provider. Using Wi-Fi and VoIP services can help you avoid these charges.
## Finding Dubai Phone Numbers
* **Online Directories:** Online directories and search engines can be useful for finding business phone numbers in Dubai. Just be sure to verify the information you find.
* **Company Websites:** If you are trying to reach a specific company, check their website for contact information.
* **Asking for Assistance:** If you know someone in Dubai, ask them to help you find the phone number you need.
## Key Takeaways:
* Always start with the correct exit code for your country.
* The UAE country code is +971.
* Dubai landlines use the area code 4.
* Dubai mobile numbers start with prefixes like 50, 52, 54, 55, 56, or 58.
* Consider VoIP services and mobile apps for cheaper international calls.
* Compare rates and use Wi-Fi to save money.
By following these steps and tips, you can confidently and affordably call Dubai from anywhere in the world. Whether you’re connecting with loved ones or conducting business, understanding the dialing process and exploring alternative calling options will ensure a smooth and successful communication experience.