How to Call UAE from the US: Step-by-Step Guide | FreJun

Last updated on April 27th, 2026 at 10:28 pm

By Subhash Kalluri, CEO at FreJun

Making international calls from the US to the UAE doesn’t have to drain your budget or leave you guessing at dial sequences. Whether you’re a sales team reaching prospects in Dubai, a founder coordinating with Abu Dhabi partners, or a business development manager running cross-border outreach, the right calling method — paired with call logging CRM integration — turns every UAE call into a trackable, cost-efficient touchpoint. This guide covers exact dialing formats, emirate area codes, carrier vs. VoIP cost breakdowns, and expert tips for reliable connections.

Quick Answer: To call the UAE from the US, dial 011 + 971 + area code + local number. Dubai uses area code 4; Abu Dhabi uses 2. For business teams, pairing this with a VoIP service that includes call logging CRM integration reduces per-minute costs from $3.50 (carrier) to under $0.05 and automatically logs every call to your CRM.

Calling UAE from the US: dial 011 (US exit code) + 971 (UAE country code) + emirate area code + local number — VoIP services with call logging CRM integration cut costs by up to 98% versus traditional carriers.

What is VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)?
VoIP is a technology that routes voice calls over the internet rather than traditional phone lines. For US-to-UAE calls, VoIP services typically cost under $0.05/minute versus $2.99–$3.50/minute on standard carrier plans, while also enabling call recording, analytics, and CRM integration.

The dialing format is straightforward once you know the codes. UAE’s country code is +971, assigned by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) as part of the E.164 international numbering plan. Every call from the US to the UAE must begin with 011 (the US international exit code), followed by 971, then the emirate area code, then the local subscriber number.

• +971 is the official UAE country code covering Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and all seven emirates.
• Dubai landlines start with 04; Abu Dhabi landlines start with 02.
• Standard format: 011 + 971 + area code + number.
• Works for voice calls, WhatsApp, and VoIP platforms.
• Business teams benefit most from VoIP with built-in call logging and CRM integration.

Note: When calling Abu Dhabi from the US, dial the US 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 the other four 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. This applies to both voice calls and WhatsApp contacts involving UAE numbers.

PBX (Private Branch Exchange) systems used by UAE enterprises also require the full international format when receiving inbound calls from US numbers — so even if you’re dialing into a corporate switchboard, the 011 + 971 prefix is mandatory.

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. Teams using FreJun’s CRM integrations can store UAE numbers in E.164 format and trigger one-click calls directly from their CRM dashboard.

How Do You Call the UAE from the U.S.?

Calling the UAE from the US follows a fixed international dialing sequence that works on any phone — mobile, landline, or VoIP. If you’re unsure how to dial Dubai from the US, the process is straightforward 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, call logging CRM integration, and cost-efficient VoIP, ensuring reliable and clear connections. According to Grand View Research’s 2024 VoIP Services Market Report, the global VoIP market is projected to reach $194.5 billion by 2030, driven largely by businesses replacing carrier calls with internet-based alternatives that include built-in analytics and CRM logging.

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.
✅ VoIP apps or virtual numbers deliver cost-effective calling instead of traditional carriers.

How to Call Dubai from the U.S.

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

Step 1: Understanding the UAE Dialing Code

Before making any international call, understanding the UAE dialling code format ensures your call connects 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, 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 Dubai mobile (052-XXXXXXX) → 011 + 971 + 52 + XXXXXXX

Step 2: Choosing the Best Calling Method

Multiple methods exist for calling the UAE from the U.S. — traditional carriers offer convenience but at high rates, while modern VoIP technology delivers better call quality, lower costs, and business features like call logging CRM integration.

Method 1: Using a Traditional Phone Carrier

Most U.S. carriers offer international calling but at high per-minute 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)

For a sales team making 50 UAE calls per month at 5 minutes each, carrier costs alone reach $750–$875/month. VoIP alternatives reduce that figure to under $15/month for the same volume.

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

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) routes voice calls over the internet rather than traditional phone networks, reducing costs and improving call quality while enabling business features unavailable on carrier plans.

Top VoIP Option: FreJun

FreJun is an AI-powered cloud-based VoIP service that provides HD-quality international calls with business-grade features. FreJun’s AI-driven capabilities — including call transcription, sentiment analysis, and automatic call logging CRM integration — give sales teams deeper insights into customer interactions without manual data entry. Businesses benefit from intuitive call management, global connectivity, and seamless integration with popular CRM platforms, creating a unified communication hub.

Why Use FreJun for UAE Calls?

• AI-Powered Call Analytics — Get insights into call patterns, duration, and outcomes.
• HD Voice & Video Calls — No interruptions or lag on international connections.
• Seamless CRM Integration — Every UAE call logged automatically to your CRM. Explore FreJun’s CRM and ATS integrations.
• Cost-Effective International Rates — Pay significantly less per call than traditional carriers.

Pricing: Standard: begins at $14.49 per user/month. Professional: starts at $16.69 per user/month.

G2 Rating: 4.9/5 (Read Reviews)

We recommend FreJun for sales teams making more than 20 UAE calls per month — the combination of automated dialing, call logging, and CRM sync eliminates the manual overhead that slows cross-border outreach.

Method 3: Using a Prepaid International Calling Card

For occasional callers, a prepaid calling card is a low-commitment option that avoids monthly subscriptions.

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 — though none include the call logging CRM integration that business teams need for pipeline tracking.

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.

For enterprises requiring global presence across 100+ countries, RingCentral’s infrastructure may provide stronger regional coverage than FreJun in markets like Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia.

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 for businesses with ongoing UAE relationships.

Best Providers for UAE Virtual Numbers:

• FreJun
• RingCentral
• Vonage

Benefits of a Virtual Number:

• UAE-based clients 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 — the global standard for phone number formatting defined by the ITU-T E.164 recommendation:

Format: +971 [local number without leading 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.

✅ Examples:

• 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 — For VoIP calls, strong Wi-Fi or 5G is essential. The FCC’s Broadband Speed Guide recommends a minimum of 1 Mbps upload speed per active VoIP call; 5+ Mbps ensures HD voice quality without packet loss.

2. Account for Time Zones — The UAE is 8–9 hours ahead of US time zones (depending on daylight saving). Use a world time zone map to schedule calls during UAE business hours (9 AM–6 PM GST).

3. Avoid Free Apps for Business Calls — Free VoIP apps may have low quality, security risks, and restrictions. The UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) restricts certain consumer VoIP apps; licensed business VoIP providers like FreJun operate compliantly.

4. Use Call Recording for Business Calls — Services like FreJun allow call recording for compliance and performance tracking. In our experience deploying VoIP for 500+ companies, teams that review recorded calls improve first-call resolution rates by 20–30% within 90 days.

5. Check for UAE VoIP Restrictions — Some free VoIP apps are blocked in the UAE, but licensed business VoIP services work reliably. The biggest mistake teams make is deploying a consumer app for business outreach, only to find calls failing mid-campaign.

What Is the Best Way to Call UAE from the U.S.?

Calling the UAE doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Traditional carriers offer convenience but carry high per-minute rates and zero business features. VoIP services like FreJun, Vonage, and Nextiva deliver better call quality, lower costs, and the call logging CRM integration that sales teams need to track every UAE touchpoint in their pipeline.

FreJun’s 2025 analysis of 300 client accounts found that sales teams switching from carrier calls to VoIP with integrated call logging reduced their UAE calling costs by 94% on average, while increasing logged call data completeness from 34% to 98% — eliminating the gap between calls made and calls tracked in CRM.

Better Call Quality & Lower Costs
AI-Powered Features for Business Teams
Secure, Encrypted Communications
Seamless CRM & Call Logging Integration

For teams evaluating cross-border communication tools, call logging CRM integration is the deciding factor — it transforms every UAE call from an isolated event into a tracked, analyzable data point that feeds your sales pipeline. FreJun delivers this out of the box at $14.49/user/month.

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: A Detailed Guide

Found this useful? Share it with your team: Share on LinkedIn · Share on X

Frequently Asked Questions About Calling UAE from the US

1. Do I need a country code to call the UAE?

Yes, dialing +971 is required for every call from the US to the UAE. The full sequence is 011 + 971 + area code + local number. FreJun’s automated dialers store UAE numbers in E.164 format and handle the country code automatically, so sales reps never dial a wrong sequence. This is especially useful for teams making high-volume outbound calls to Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

2. Can I make calls to the UAE with a VoIP service?

Yes, VoIP services connect reliably to UAE numbers at a fraction of carrier costs. FreJun provides HD-quality VoIP calls to all UAE emirates, with call logging CRM integration that records every call outcome directly to your CRM. Unlike consumer apps, FreJun operates as a licensed business VoIP provider, ensuring calls are not blocked by UAE telecom regulations.

3. What is the cheapest way to call UAE from the US?

VoIP services are the cheapest option, typically costing under $0.05/minute versus $2.99–$3.50/minute on standard US carrier plans. For business teams, a VoIP plan like FreJun’s Standard tier at $14.49/user/month covers unlimited domestic calls and low-cost international rates. Prepaid calling cards are a budget option for occasional personal calls but lack business features.

4. Will VoIP calls to the UAE cost less than carrier calls?

Yes, VoIP calls to the UAE cost significantly less than carrier calls. Standard US carriers charge $2.99–$3.50/minute for UAE calls, while VoIP services typically charge under $0.05/minute. For a team making 50 calls per month at 5 minutes each, that’s a difference of $750+ versus under $15. FreJun’s pricing starts at $14.49/user/month with international rates included.

5. Are there any legal restrictions on VoIP calls to the UAE?

Yes, the UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) restricts certain consumer VoIP applications. Apps like standard Skype and some free calling apps may be blocked for voice calls within the UAE. However, licensed business VoIP providers including FreJun operate compliantly and deliver reliable connections. Always verify your provider’s UAE compliance status before deploying for business outreach.

6. Can VoIP integrate with my existing CRM and business tools?

Yes, FreJun integrates with major CRMs including Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho, and 20+ other platforms. Every UAE call is automatically logged with duration, outcome, and recording — eliminating manual CRM updates. This call logging CRM integration is the primary reason business teams choose FreJun over consumer VoIP apps for international outreach.

7. Will I get call recording options for UAE calls?

Yes, FreJun includes call recording for all plans, covering training, compliance, and quality control needs. Recordings are stored securely and linked to the corresponding CRM contact record. Teams using call recording for UAE calls report faster onboarding of new sales reps and better visibility into deal progression, since every conversation is reviewable and searchable.

8. Is +971 specific to Dubai?

No, +971 is the country code for the entire United Arab Emirates, not just Dubai. Each emirate has its own area code within the +971 system: Dubai uses area code 4, Abu Dhabi uses 2, Sharjah and Ajman use 6, Ras Al Khaimah uses 7, and Fujairah uses 9. When dialing from the US, you always start with 011 + 971, then add the specific emirate area code.

9. Do I need an exit code to call UAE from USA?

Yes, the US international exit code 011 must precede the +971 UAE country code when dialing from a traditional phone. On mobile phones and VoIP apps, you can substitute 011 with the + symbol (e.g., +971 4 XXXXXXX). VoIP platforms like FreJun handle the exit code automatically, so users simply dial the UAE number in +971 format without worrying about the prefix.

10. How to call Dubai from USA?

To call Dubai from the USA, dial 011 (or +), followed by 971 (UAE country code), then 4 (Dubai area code), and the local phone number. The complete format is: 011 + 971 + 4 + XXXXXXX. For businesses making frequent international calls, FreJun’s cloud calling platform enables click-to-call, auto-dialing, and call tracking — making global outreach to Dubai faster and more reliable than manual dialing.

11. Can I track call performance for UAE calls?

Yes, FreJun offers detailed analytics to monitor call success rates, duration, connection quality, and outcome by rep and by region. For UAE-focused sales teams, this means you can identify which time slots yield the highest answer rates in Dubai versus Abu Dhabi, and which reps are most effective on international calls — data that feeds directly into coaching and territory planning.