How to Call Internationally from 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
This guide covers everything you need to know about making international calls from United Arab Emirates. You will find the correct dialing format, exit codes, information about carrier rates, and links to detailed guides for specific destinations.
Quick Reference
Exit Code
00
Dialing Format
00 + country code + area or mobile code + local number
Example
00 44 7xxx xxxxxx (UAE to UK mobile)
How to Dial International Numbers from United Arab Emirates
To place an international call from United Arab Emirates, you need to dial the exit code followed by the destination country code and then the local number. The exit code for United Arab Emirates is 00. If you are using a mobile phone, you can also use the plus symbol (+) instead of the exit code, and your phone will automatically convert it.
Drop the foreign trunk prefix (such as 0) after the country code when dialing abroad.
Dialing Examples
- Mobile: 00 44 7xxx xxxxxx (UAE to UK mobile)
- Landline: 00 1 212 xxx xxxx (UAE to US landline)
Toll-free numbers: Foreign toll free numbers often do not work from UAE or convert to chargeable calls.
Before You Call
There are a few things to check before making international calls from United Arab Emirates to ensure your call connects successfully and you understand the costs involved.
- •Ensure your mobile or landline plan has international calling (IDD) enabled; many prepaid plans block IDD by default.
- •For prepaid SIMs, maintain sufficient main balance; some bundles do not cover standard IDD calls.
- •Roaming must be activated before using a UAE SIM outside the country; check operator app or customer care.
- •Dial 00 or use +, then the destination country code, area or mobile code, and subscriber number.
- •Corporate PBX systems may require an extra prefix (such as 9) before 00 or + for external calls.
Carrier International Rates
If you dial internationally using your mobile carrier in United Arab Emirates, you will typically pay per-minute rates that vary by destination. These rates can be significantly higher than internet-based calling options. The table below shows approximate rate ranges for major carriers.
| Carrier | Rate Range (USD/min) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Etisalat by e& | $0.30-1.50 | Typical IDD rates vary by destination; discounted minutes may apply with international packs. |
| du | $0.25-1.40 | Offers special IDD destinations and bundles; standard rates higher outside preferred countries. |
| Virgin Mobile UAE | $0.25-1.20 | App based plans may include international minutes; pay as you go IDD charged per minute. |
Rates are approximate and may vary. Check with your carrier for current pricing.
Cost Considerations
Ways to Call Internationally from United Arab Emirates
There are several methods available for making international calls from United Arab Emirates. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of cost, convenience, and call quality.
Carrier IDD from UAE number
Dial 00 or +, then country code, area or mobile code, and number directly from your UAE SIM.
Drawbacks: Higher per minute cost; easy to incur large bills if calling frequently or while roaming.
International calling bundles
Purchase add ons from UAE operators that include discounted minutes to selected countries.
Drawbacks: Limited to specific destinations and validity periods; out of bundle calls revert to higher rates.
Calling cards or access numbers
Use a local access number or PIN based card to route international calls at lower rates.
Drawbacks: Extra dialing steps, variable quality, and possible surcharges from your main operator.
Destination Guides
Select a destination below to see detailed instructions for calling that country from United Arab Emirates, including the exact dialing sequence, current rates, and tips specific to that route.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I dial an international number from the UAE?
Dial 00 or +, then the country code, area or mobile code, and the local number, omitting any leading 0 in the foreign number.
Should I use roaming or Wi Fi or VOIP when traveling with a UAE SIM?
Roaming is convenient but often costly; using Wi Fi based calling apps or a local SIM at your destination is usually cheaper if available.
How expensive are international calls from the UAE?
Rates vary by destination and operator, roughly from about USD 0.25 to over 1.50 per minute; bundles and special offers can reduce costs.
Will my caller ID show correctly when I call UAE numbers from abroad or via apps?
Direct calls via carriers usually show your number if supported; VOIP or app based calls may show alternate IDs or unknown depending on the service.
Calling from Another Country?
We have similar guides for making international calls from other locations:
Related Resources
Need to call abroad from United Arab Emirates?
HelloAirDial lets you make international calls directly from your web browser. Check the rates for your destination or try a call to see how it works.