How to Call UAE from the U.S: A Step-by-Step Guide

Last updated on December 30th, 2025 at 01:55 pm

Whether you need to stay in touch with family, friends, or business associates in the UAE, making international calls from the U.S. can sometimes be confusing and expensive. With different dialing codes, call plans, VoIP services, and mobile app options, it’s important to find the most reliable and cost-effective method to ensure clear communication.

Many people rely on traditional phone services, but they come with high per-minute rates. Others look for VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services or calling apps, which can offer cheaper and higher-quality alternatives. The right option for you will depend on how often you call, your budget, and the level of call quality you require.

Want to calling UAE from the US? Dial 011 (US exit code) + 971 (UAE country code) followed by the local number.

• AE +971 is the official UAE country code used for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates.
• Dubai landlines start with 04, Abu Dhabi with 02.
• Use this format: 011 + 971 + area code + number.
• Works for calls, WhatsApp, and VoIP.
• Best for business or personal calls from the USA to UAE.

This step-by-step guide will cover everything you need to know about calling the UAE from the U.S., including dialing instructions, different calling methods, cost comparisons, VoIP alternatives, and expert tips for the best experience.

Note- If you are calling Abu Dhabi from US, make sure to dial the U.S. exit code (011), followed by the UAE country code +971, then 02 and the local number.

What Is the UAE Country Code (+971) and Why Is It Important for US Callers?

The UAE country code is +971, which identifies all phone numbers registered in the United Arab Emirates — including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates.
When calling from the US, you must dial 011 (US exit code) + 971 (UAE country code) before the local number.
Using the correct +971 code ensures your call connects to the UAE rather than another international destination. It’s essential for both voice calls and WhatsApp contacts involving UAE numbers.

Example format: 011 + 971 + local number

✅ Quick Tip: Save all UAE contacts with the +971 prefix to make WhatsApp calls or CRM dial-outs easier.

How do you Call the UAE from the U.S.?

If you’re unsure how to dial Dubai from US, the process is simple once you know the correct exit code and UAE city code. When calling the UAE from the U.S., using services like FreJun streamlines the process with automated dialing, CRM integration, and cost-efficient VoIP, ensuring reliable and clear connections.

How Can You Call Abu Dhabi from the US?

To call Abu Dhabi from the United States, follow this exact dialing sequence:

Dial 011 + 971 + 2 + local number

Here’s the breakdown:

• 011 – US exit code
• 971 – UAE country code
• 2 – Abu Dhabi area code
• Local number – 7-digit subscriber number

Example: 011-971-2-XXXXXXX

✅ Works for both mobile and landline numbers in Abu Dhabi.
✅ You can also use VoIP apps or virtual numbers for cost-effective calling instead of traditional carriers.

How to Call UAE from the U.S.

These are the steps to call the UAE from the U.S:

Step 1: Understanding the UAE Dialing Code

Before making any international call, you need to understand the UAE dialling code format to ensure your call goes through correctly.

International Calling Format for UAE

The standard international dialling format follows this structure:

011 (U.S. Exit Code) + 971 (UAE Country Code) + Area Code + Local Number

UAE Area Codes

If you’re calling a landline in a specific city, you need to dial an area code before the local number:

• Abu Dhabi – 2
• Dubai – 4
• Sharjah – 6
• Ajman – 6
• Ras Al Khaimah – 7
• Fujairah – 9
• Umm Al Quwain – 6
• Mobile Numbers – Start with 50, 52, 54, 55, 56, or 58

Example Calls:

• Calling a Dubai landline (04-XXXXXXX) → 011 + 971 + 4 + XXXXXXX
• Calling a UAE mobile number (052-XXXXXXX) → 011 + 971 + 52 + XXXXXXX

Step 2: Choosing the Best Calling Method

There are multiple ways to call the UAE from the U.S. Some are traditional, while others use modern VoIP technology to offer better call quality and lower costs.

Method 1: Using a Traditional Phone Carrier

Most U.S. carriers offer international calling but at high rates.

Cost Comparison of Major U.S. Carriers:

• AT&T: $3.50/min (Standard) 
• Verizon: $2.99/min (Standard) 
• T-Mobile: $3.00/min (Standard)

Method 2: Using a Premium VoIP Service (Best Quality & Features)

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) allows users to make calls over the Internet instead of traditional phone networks, often reducing costs and improving call quality.

Top VoIP Option: FreJun

FreJun is an AI-powered cloud-based VoIP service that provides crystal-clear international calls with business-grade features. FreJun’s AI-driven capabilities, such as call transcription and sentiment analysis, make it a game-changer in the VoIP industry. Businesses can gain deeper insights into customer interactions, enabling them to refine their service strategies and improve customer satisfaction. With FreJun, companies benefit from intuitive call management features, global connectivity, and seamless integration with popular CRM platforms, creating a unified communication hub.

Why Use FreJun?

• AI-Powered Call Analytics – Get insights into your calling habits.
• HD Voice & Video Calls – No interruptions or lag.
• Seamless CRM Integration – Ideal for businesses.

Learn more about FreJun’s CRM/ATS integration.

• Cost-Effective International Rates – Pay less per call than traditional carriers.

Pricing:  Standard: Begins at $14.49 per user, per month.

              Professional: Starts at $16.69 per user, per month.

G2 Rating: 4.9/5 (Read Reviews)

Method 3: Using a Prepaid International Calling Card

If you make calls only occasionally, a prepaid calling card may be a good option.

How It Works:

1. Buy a UAE-specific calling card (available at convenience stores or online).
2. Dial the access number.
3. Enter your PIN and UAE number to connect.

Method 4: Using Premium Calling Apps

Several paid mobile apps offer affordable VoIP calling to the UAE with better rates than carriers.

 Paid Calling Apps:

• Rebtel – Calls without Wi-Fi using local carriers.
• Vonage – Secure VoIP for business and personal calls.
• Zoom Phone – Enterprise-grade VoIP with virtual numbers.
• Nextiva – AI-driven VoIP for professionals.

Step 3: Consider Getting a UAE Virtual Number

A UAE virtual number allows you to receive calls from UAE contacts at local rates, making it cheaper and more convenient.

Best Providers for UAE Virtual Numbers:

• FreJun
• RingCentral
• Vonage

Benefits of a Virtual Number:

• UAE-based clients/customers can call you at local rates.
• Works across multiple devices (mobile, VoIP desk phones, etc.).
• Can be forwarded to your U.S. number.

How to Use +971 Code on WhatsApp to Contact UAE Numbers?

To chat or call someone in the UAE via WhatsApp, save their number using the international E.164 format:

Format: +971 [local number without 0]

For example, if a Dubai mobile number is 050 123 4567, save it as +971 50 123 4567.
This ensures WhatsApp recognizes the contact as UAE-based.

✅ Example:

• Dubai: +971 50 XXXXXXX
• Abu Dhabi: +971 2 XXXXXXX

You don’t need the US exit code (011) for WhatsApp — just the +971 country code and valid mobile number.

What Are the Area Codes for Each Emirate in the UAE?

Each emirate in the UAE has its own unique area code that follows the +971 country code. Here’s the complete list:

Emirate	Area Code	Example Format (from US)	WhatsApp Compatible
Abu Dhabi	2	011 + 971 + 2 + XXXXXXX	✅ Yes
Dubai	4	011 + 971 + 4 + XXXXXXX	✅ Yes
Sharjah	6	011 + 971 + 6 + XXXXXXX	✅ Yes
Ajman	6	011 + 971 + 6 + XXXXXXX	✅ Yes
Ras Al Khaimah	7	011 + 971 + 7 + XXXXXXX	✅ Yes
Fujairah	9	011 + 971 + 9 + XXXXXXX	✅ Yes
Umm Al Quwain	6	011 + 971 + 6 + XXXXXXX	✅ Yes

✅ Always include 011 + 971 before the emirate’s area code when calling from the US.

What are the Expert Tips for Making High-Quality Calls to the UAE

1. Use a Stable Internet Connection – If using VoIP, ensure strong Wi-Fi or 5G for the best quality.

2. Consider Time Zones – The UAE is 8-9 hours ahead of U.S. time zones, so schedule calls accordingly.

3. Avoid Free Apps for Important Calls – Free VoIP apps may have low quality, security risks, and restrictions.

4. Use Call Recording for Business Calls – Services like FreJun allow call recording for compliance and tracking.

5. Check for UAE VoIP Restrictions – Some free VoIP apps are blocked in the UAE, but premium services work reliably.

Final Thoughts: The Best Way to Call UAE from the U.S.

Calling the UAE doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. While traditional carriers offer convenience, they come with high per-minute rates and limited features. Instead, using VoIP services like FreJun, Vonage, and Nextiva provides:

Better Call Quality & Lower Costs
AI-Powered Features for Businesses
Secure, Encrypted Communications
Seamless CRM & Call Management Integration

If you want the best balance of quality, security, and cost-effectiveness, FreJun is the top choice for business and professional calls to the UAE.

Get started with FreJun today and experience seamless, AI-powered international calling! 

Take A Demo or Sign Up Now

Further Reading: Top 7 Microsoft Dynamics Calling Integrations for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

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