Calling Codes For the UAE: A Quick Guide
Mesan Ali
Connecting with someone in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is simple once you understand the necessary dialing procedures. This guide will help you navigate the international calling process, area codes, and other essential information, ensuring your calls to the UAE are seamless and effective.
How do I call the United Arab Emirates?
Each country has its own international dialing code, and the UAE is no different. To call the UAE from abroad, you will need to use the appropriate international dialing code. A UAE phone number typically consists of a mobile or area code followed by a local number, which usually contains 7 digits.
To reach the UAE from another country, use the following international country code:
+971
Are there additional codes in the UAE I should be aware of?
The UAE employs the +971 country code for international calls. When dialing from outside the country, be sure to include your international dialing prefix (commonly "00" or "+") followed by 971. For calls made within the UAE, you can dial the area code and local number without the country code.
Common Area Codes in the UAE
The UAE has several area codes that correspond to different emirates. Here are some of the primary area codes:
An example of a UAE phone number
When calling a UAE number from within the country, the format is:
(area code) - (phone number)
For example, if you are calling a number in Dubai, it would appear as follows:
(4) - 1234567
When dialing from abroad, you would use this format. To reach a business in Dubai with the local number 1234567, you would dial:
00 - your exit code
971 - UAE's country code
4 - Dubai's area code
1234567 - the local number
So, you would dial 00-971-4-1234567.
Why didn’t my call to the UAE go through?
There are several potential reasons your call may not connect:
You might have forgotten to include your country’s exit code.
The area code dialed could be incorrect.
The mobile number you are trying to reach may not be enabled for international calls.
You may have neglected to include the country code +971 before the number.
Many people now prefer using online communication platforms such as WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber instead of traditional phone calls, especially for connecting with the UAE.
Do phone numbers in the UAE typically have voicemail boxes?
Most phone numbers in the UAE, particularly mobile lines, are equipped with voicemail services. Users can customize their greetings to inform callers on how to leave messages.
What does the ringing tone sound like when you call the UAE?
When dialing the UAE, you can expect to hear the following tones:
Dial tone: A standard tone that is common in many countries.
Busy signal: A repetitive beep indicating that the line you are trying to reach is currently busy.
Unobtainable message: A notification indicating that the number you are attempting to dial cannot be connected.
Traveling frequently? Consider using a prepaid SIM card.
If you plan to visit the UAE often, obtaining a local prepaid SIM card could be a cost-effective option. This can offer economical calling and data solutions during your stay.
Making international calls might seem daunting, but with this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to manage the process effortlessly. Happy dialing!
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