UAE Phone Number Format: Country Code, Area Codes, and Dialing Tips (2024)

Introduction

In the United Arab Emirate (UAE), mobile phones are the dominant form of business communication, with 98% of the population using mobile devices compared to just 23% using landlines. However, calling the UAE can be confusing for those unfamiliar with the country’s unique phone number formats, which include area codes, mobile network codes, and special prefixes. This guide aims to clarify UAE phone number format structures, provide tips for making successful calls, and explore cost-effective solutions to help you effectively communicate with contacts in the UAE.

Understanding UAE Phone Number Formats (Mobile & Landline)

A UAE phone number consists of several key components that are essential for making a successful call. These components include the country code, area code (for landlines), mobile network code (for mobile phones), and subscriber number. Understanding each part of the phone number is crucial for dialing correctly.

UAE Country Code: The UAE’s country code is +971, which must be dialed before the area code or mobile network code when calling from outside the UAE.
Area Codes (Landlines): UAE landline phone numbers have area codes that correspond to specific emirates:

Abu Dhabi: 02
Dubai: 04
Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain: 06
Ras Al Khaimah: 07
Fujairah: 09

Landline numbers in the UAE are typically 8 digits long, including the area code. For example, a Dubai landline number would be formatted as +971 4 XXX XXXX.

Mobile Network Codes: UAE mobile phone numbers start with a specific mobile network code, followed by the subscriber number. The mobile network codes are:

Etisalat: 50, 56, 58
du: 52, 54, 55, 58

Mobile numbers in the UAE are typically 9 digits long, including the mobile network code. For example, an Etisalat mobile number would be formatted as +971 50 XXX XXXX.

Dialing within the UAE: When dialing within the UAE, you can omit the country code and simply dial the area code or mobile network code followed by the subscriber number. For example:

Landline (Dubai): 04 XXX XXXX
Mobile (Etisalat): 50 XXX XXXX

Dialing from outside the UAE: When calling a UAE phone number from abroad, always include the country code +971, followed by the mobile network code and the subscriber number. For example:

Landline (Abu Dhabi): +971 2 XXX XXXX
Mobile (du): +971 52 XXX XXXX

By familiarizing yourself with these UAE phone number format, you’ll be better equipped to make successful calls to both landlines and mobile phones in the UAE.

UAE Area Codes Explained

UAE area codes are an essential part of the country’s landline phone number system. Each emirate has its unique code, which helps identify the location of the landline number being dialed. Understanding these area codes is crucial for making successful calls within the UAE and from abroad.

Major UAE Cities and Their Area Codes:

Abu Dhabi: 02
Dubai: 04
Sharjah: 06
Ajman: 06
Umm Al Quwain: 06
Ras Al Khaimah: 07
Fujairah: 09

It’s important to note that some emirates, such as Sharjah, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain, share the same area code (06).

Using Area Codes for Domestic Dialing:

When making a call within the UAE from one landline to another, you need to include the code of the emirate you are calling. For example, if you are in Dubai (area code 04) and want to call a landline in Abu Dhabi (area code 02), you would dial: 02 XXX XXXX.

If you are calling a landline within the same emirate, you can usually omit the area code. For instance, if you are in Abu Dhabi and calling another Abu Dhabi landline, you can simply dial the subscriber number: XXX XXXX.

Using Area Codes for International Dialing:

When calling a UAE landline from outside the country, you must always include the country code (+971) followed by the area code and subscriber number. For example, if you are calling a landline in Dubai from abroad, you would dial: +971 4 XXX XXXX.

UAE Mobile Network Operator Codes

When calling a mobile phone in the UAE, it’s essential to know the mobile network operator codes. These codes are the first two or three digits of a mobile phone number and indicate which operator the number belongs to. Using the correct operator code ensures that your call is connected to the right network and reaches the intended recipient.

Operator	Codes
Etisalat	50, 56, 58
du	52, 54, 55, 58

As shown in the table above, Etisalat uses the codes 50, 56, and 58, while du uses 52, 54, 55, and 58. It’s important to note that both operators share the code 58, so it’s crucial to know which operator the number belongs to when dialing a number starting with 58.

Ensuring Calls Connect Correctly:

When dialing a UAE mobile number from within the country, you must include the operator code before the subscriber number. For example, if you are calling an Etisalat mobile number from another UAE phone, you would dial: 05X XXX XXXX.

If you are calling a UAE mobile number from outside the country, you need to include the country code (+971) followed by the operator code and subscriber number. For instance, if you are calling a du mobile number from abroad, you would dial: +971 5X XXX XXXX.

Omitting the operator code or using the wrong code may result in the call not being connected or reaching the wrong person. Therefore, it’s crucial to verify the operator code before making a call to a UAE mobile number.

By familiarizing yourself with the UAE mobile network operator codes and understanding how they are used in domestic and international dialing, you can ensure that your calls to UAE mobile phones are connected successfully.

Calling the UAE from the US, UK, India, Australia

When calling the UAE from abroad, it’s important to consider factors such as time zone differences and the proper dialing format. This section will provide information on calling the UAE from four major countries: the United States, United Kingdom, India, and Australia.

United States

Time zone difference: The UAE is 8 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) and 11 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time (PST).

Dialing format: To call the UAE from the US, follow these steps:

Dial the US exit code: 011
Dial the UAE country code: 971
Dial the area code (for landlines) or mobile network code (for mobile phones)
Dial the subscriber number

Example: To call a Dubai landline from the US, you would dial: 011-971-4-XXX-XXXX

United Kingdom

Time zone difference: The UAE is 4 hours ahead of the UK during British Summer Time (BST) and 3 hours ahead during Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Dialing format: To call the UAE from the UK, follow these steps:

Dial the UK exit code: 00
Dial the UAE country code: 971
Dial the area code (for landlines) or mobile network code (for mobile phones)
Dial the subscriber number

Example: To call an Abu Dhabi mobile number from the UK, you would dial: 00-971-5X-XXX-XXXX

India

Time zone difference: The UAE is 1 hour and 30 minutes behind India Standard Time (IST).

Dialing format: To call the UAE from India, follow these steps:

Dial the India exit code: 00
Dial the UAE country code: 971
Dial the area code (for landlines) or mobile network code (for mobile phones)
Dial the subscriber number

Example: To call a Sharjah landline from India, you would dial: 00-971-6-XXX-XXXX

Australia

Time zone difference: The UAE is 6 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) and 4 hours behind Australian Western Standard Time (AWST).

Dialing format: To call the UAE from Australia, follow these steps:

Dial the Australia exit code: 0011
Dial the UAE country code: 971
Dial the area code (for landlines) or mobile network code (for mobile phones)
Dial the subscriber number

Example: To call a Ras Al Khaimah landline from Australia, you would dial: 0011-971-7-XXX-XXXX

By understanding the time zone differences and proper dialing formats, you can ensure that your calls from the US, UK, India, or Australia to the UAE are connected successfully.

Emergency Numbers in the UAE

When traveling or doing business in the United Arab Emirates, it’s crucial to be aware of the country’s emergency numbers. Knowing these numbers can help you quickly reach the appropriate services in case of an urgent situation, such as a medical emergency, fire, or crime.

Key Emergency Numbers in the UAE:

Police: 999
Ambulance: 998
Fire Department: 997
Coast Guard: 996
Non-emergency Police: 901

These emergency numbers are toll free number and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones and public payphones, without the need for a calling card or coins.

Importance for Travelers and Business Visitors:

For travelers and those conducting business in the UAE, having these emergency numbers readily available can be a lifesaver in critical situations. It’s recommended to store these numbers in your mobile phone’s contacts and write them down in a easily accessible place, such as your wallet or travel notebook.

In the event of an emergency, remain calm and dial the appropriate number. Be prepared to provide the operator with your name, location, and the nature of the emergency. If you are calling from a mobile phone, ensure that you can provide your precise location or any nearby landmarks, as this will help emergency services reach you more quickly.

It’s also important to note that English is widely spoken in the UAE, and emergency operators are typically fluent in both Arabic and English. However, if you face any language barriers, try to communicate the nature of your emergency clearly and provide your location to the best of your ability.

By familiarizing yourself with the UAE’s emergency numbers and understanding their importance, you can ensure that you are prepared to handle any urgent situations that may arise during your time in the country.

International Calling Costs to the UAE

When calling the UAE from abroad, it’s essential to consider the potential costs involved. International calling rates can vary significantly depending on your location and the type of phone service you use. This section will provide an overview of typical per-minute costs for calling the UAE from major countries and introduce virtual phone numbers as a cost-effective alternative.

Typical Per-Minute Costs for Calling the UAE:

The following are approximate per-minute rates for calling the UAE from some major countries using traditional phone services:

United States: $0.50 – $1.50
United Kingdom: £0.50 – £1.50
Canada: CA$0.50 – CA$1.50
Australia: AU$0.50 – AU$2.00
Germany: €0.50 – €1.50
France: €0.50 – €1.50
India: ₹10 – ₹30

Please note that these rates are subject to change and may vary depending on your specific phone plan or provider. Additionally, calls to mobile phones in the UAE may be more expensive than calls to landlines.

Virtual Phone Numbers: A Cost-Effective Solution

Virtual phone numbers, also known as cloud numbers or remote call forwarding numbers, offer a flexible and cost-effective solution for making international calls to the UAE. A virtual phone number is a telephone number that is not directly associated with a physical phone line but instead routes calls over the internet to a designated phone number.

By using a virtual phone number, you can:

Avoid high international calling rates
Make calls to the UAE using a local number in your country
Receive calls from the UAE on a local number
Manage your calls through an online dashboard
Forward calls to any phone number worldwide

Virtual phone numbers are typically offered by specialized providers and can be set up quickly without the need for additional hardware. Rates for virtual phone numbers are often significantly lower than traditional international calling rates, making them an attractive option for businesses and individuals who frequently communicate with contacts in the UAE.

When choosing a virtual phone number provider, consider factors such as call quality, reliability, customer support, and pricing to ensure that you select a service that best meets your needs.

By understanding the typical costs associated with international calls to the UAE and exploring alternative solutions like virtual phone numbers, you can make informed decisions about how to stay connected with your contacts in the UAE while managing your communication expenses effectively.

Benefits of Having a UAE Phone Number

Having a UAE phone number offers numerous advantages for businesses and individuals looking to establish a presence in the United Arab Emirates or maintain connections with contacts in the country. This section will explore how a local-presence UAE number can build credibility and trust, as well as discuss the various benefits provided by virtual number services.

Building Credibility and Trust with a Local-Presence UAE Number

When doing business in the UAE or targeting UAE-based customers, having a local phone number can significantly enhance your credibility and trustworthiness. A UAE phone number demonstrates your commitment to the local market and shows that you are accessible to customers and partners in the country.

With a local-presence UAE number, you can:

Establish a professional image and build trust with UAE-based contacts
Encourage customers to call you by providing a familiar, local number
Avoid potential hesitation or skepticism associated with foreign numbers
Comply with local business regulations and consumer expectations
Facilitate seamless communication with UAE-based partners and suppliers

By displaying a UAE phone number on your website, business cards, and marketing materials, you can effectively project a local presence and inspire confidence in your target audience.

Advantages of Virtual UAE Phone Numbers

Virtual UAE phone numbers offer a range of benefits that extend beyond building local credibility. These advantages include:

Call Forwarding: Virtual UAE numbers allow you to forward incoming calls to any phone number worldwide, ensuring that you never miss an important call, regardless of your location.
International Availability: With a virtual UAE number, you can be reached by callers from anywhere in the world, as long as they have access to a phone or internet connection.
Cost Savings: Virtual numbers eliminate the need for physical phone lines and expensive international calling plans, resulting in significant cost savings for your business or personal communication needs.
Flexibility: You can easily manage your virtual UAE number through an online dashboard, adjusting settings such as call forwarding, voicemail, and call routing to suit your preferences and business hours.
Additional Features: Many virtual number providers offer advanced features like call recording, voicemail-to-email transcription, SMS messaging, and analytics to help you better manage and monitor your communications.
Scalability: As your business grows or your communication needs change, you can quickly acquire additional virtual UAE numbers or modify your existing setup without the need for technical expertise or infrastructure changes.

By leveraging the benefits of a virtual UAE phone number, you can enhance your communication capabilities, streamline your operations, and effectively engage with your UAE-based contacts while enjoying the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of a cloud-based solution.

How to Get a UAE Phone Number

If you’re looking to acquire a UAE phone number for your business or personal use, the process is relatively simple. This section will provide an overview of the general steps involved in obtaining a UAE phone number.

General Process for Getting a UAE Phone Number

To get a UAE phone number, follow these basic steps:

Research and compare providers: Look for reputable virtual phone number providers that offer UAE numbers and compare their features, pricing, and customer reviews. Consider factors such as reliability, customer support, and the specific features you require.
Choose a provider: Select a provider that meets your specific needs and budget. Make sure to read the terms of service and any contractual obligations before signing up.
Select a plan: Choose a pricing plan that aligns with your expected usage and desired features. Consider factors such as the number of minutes included, additional features like voicemail and SMS messaging, and any potential overage charges.
Sign up and activate your number: Provide the necessary information to sign up for the service, select your preferred UAE phone number, and complete the activation process as directed by your provider. This typically involves providing payment information and verifying your identity.
Configure your settings: Use your provider’s online dashboard or app to configure your call forwarding, voicemail, and other settings to ensure that your UAE number works seamlessly with your existing communication setup.

By following these steps and carefully evaluating your options, you can obtain a UAE phone number that meets your communication needs and helps you effectively connect with your contacts in the United Arab Emirates.

When selecting a provider, it’s essential to do your due diligence and choose a reputable company with a track record of reliable service and customer support. Be sure to read reviews from other users and thoroughly assess the features and pricing of each provider to find the best fit for your specific requirements.

Cultural Considerations for Calling the UAE

When calling the UAE for business purposes, it’s essential to be aware of cultural norms and etiquette to ensure effective communication and avoid any unintentional offence. This section will discuss appropriate business greetings and etiquette, as well as mention sensitivities regarding communication during prayer times and holidays.

Appropriate Business Greetings and Etiquette

Formal greetings: When initiating a business call, it’s important to use formal greetings such as “As-salaam-alaikum” (peace be upon you) or “Marhaba” (hello). Using the person’s title and last name is also considered respectful, e.g., “Mr. Al-Jabri” or “Dr. Abdulrahman.”
Small talk: In UAE business culture, it’s common to engage in brief small talk before diving into business matters. Asking about the person’s well-being, family, or recent events can help build rapport and establish a friendly tone.
Respect for hierarchy: The UAE has a hierarchical business culture, so it’s important to show respect for authority figures and senior members of an organization. When addressing someone in a higher position, use their title and last name until invited to do otherwise.
Language: While Arabic is the official language of the UAE, English is widely used in business settings. However, it’s always appreciated when foreign callers learn a few basic Arabic phrases to demonstrate respect for the local culture.
Gender considerations: When calling a member of the opposite gender, it’s important to maintain a professional and respectful tone. Avoid overly familiar language or personal questions that may be considered inappropriate.

Prayer Times and Holidays

Prayer times: The UAE is an Islamic country, and many businesses and individuals observe daily prayer times. It’s best to avoid scheduling calls during these times, which occur five times a day. If you’re unsure about prayer times, it’s advisable to ask your UAE contact for guidance.
Friday: Friday is the holy day of the week in Islam, and many businesses operate on a reduced schedule or close entirely. It’s best to avoid scheduling calls on Fridays, especially during midday prayer time.
Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, business hours in the UAE may change significantly, with shorter workdays and altered schedules. It’s important to be aware of these changes and adjust your communication accordingly. Avoid calling during fasting hours, and be understanding if response times are slower than usual.
Other holidays: The UAE observes several national and religious holidays throughout the year, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. It’s essential to be aware of these holidays and avoid scheduling calls during these times, as many businesses will be closed and individuals may be unavailable.

By being mindful of these cultural considerations and demonstrating respect for UAE customs and traditions, you can foster positive business relationships and ensure effective communication when calling contacts in the United Arab Emirates.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve covered the essential aspects of calling the UAE, including phone number formats, area codes, mobile network codes, and international dialing conventions. By understanding these key points and being mindful of cultural considerations, you can ensure that your calls to UAE contacts are connected successfully and maintain a professional and respectful tone in your communications.

To make the most of this information, we encourage you to save the relevant numbers and dialing formats for quick reference. Whether you bookmark this guide, save a copy, or print it out, having this information readily available will help you connect with your UAE contacts confidently and efficiently.