WhatsApp Voice and video calling capabilities have begun rolling out globally WhatsApp Weballows users to make and receive calls directly from the browser without installing a desktop application. The update brings the long-awaited calling feature to the web version of the platform, complementing its existing messaging and media sharing capabilities.
What features does WhatsApp web calling offer?
The new calling update for WhatsApp Web supports:
- one-on-one voice and
video call Directly through a web browser. - End-to-end privacy encryption, similar to mobile and desktop apps.
- The call icon in chat allows users to initiate calls without opening WhatsApp on their phone or desktop app.
The rollout is still in phased testing, meaning not all users will see it, but Meta is gradually expanding access. Future enhancements are also planned, such as group calling and call linking, allowing multiple users to join network calls.
United Arab Emirates Regulations: WhatsApp Online Calling Rules
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 have blocked these features.
This restriction applies to:
- WhatsApp voice calls
- WhatsApp video call
- Internet calling feature on WhatsApp Web
In contrast, text messaging, media sharing, file transfer and other non-voice features on WhatsApp and WhatsApp Web work fine in the UAE.
WhatsApp alternatives available to UAE residents
Although WhatsApp calling is restricted locally, there are legal alternatives that support voice and video calling in the UAE –
- version: Residents often use licensed VoIP applications to make Internet calls.
- GoChat, Voico and similar local VoIP providers: Comply with UAE Telecommunications Regulations.
- Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Team: Popular video conferencing tools that work well on UAE networks.
These applications comply with UAE VoIP regulations and are widely used for personal and professional communications.
Why are there WhatsApp restrictions in the UAE?
The restrictions on internet calls in the UAE stem from:
- Telecom licensing policies require VoIP services to be provided by or coordinated with licensed operators.
- Provide security and compliance oversight of communications traffic.
- Protect the revenue model of telecom providers built around traditional voice services.
Despite periodic speculation about policy changes, the UAE continues to strictly enforce these VoIP regulations as of early 2026.
Future: Will WhatsApp calling work in the UAE?
WhatsApp web calling is available to users globally where it has been launched. WhatsApp voice and video calls remain blocked in the UAE, across web, mobile and desktop clients. Messaging and media features on WhatsApp Web remain fully available. Users who require local calling capabilities should use an approved VoIP application such as BOTIM or Zoom.The industry has occasionally talked about regulatory changes or collaborations that could open the door to future WhatsApp calls, but no formal policy shift has been announced as of 2026, and TDRA’s VoIP framework maintains current restrictions. Meanwhile, WhatsApp Web’s new voice and video calling features are technically available in markets where regulations allow it, but UAE residents will still need other apps to make local internet calls.
