Hey there, Dubai Snapchatters! If you’ve been frustrated because Snapchat calls aren’t working in the UAE, you’re not alone. Many people in Dubai and the UAE are wondering:
Is Snapchat banned in Dubai?
Does Snapchat call work in the UAE?
Can you use Snapchat video calls in Dubai?
The short answer? Yes, Snapchat is restricted in the UAE, but there’s an easy fix—using a VPN for Snapchat.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Why Snapchat calls are blocked in Dubai
✔ How to unblock Snapchat with a VPN (step-by-step)
✔ The best VPNs for Snapchat in the UAE
✔ Legal alternatives if you don’t want to use a VPN
Let’s get into it!
What’s So Special About Snapchat?
Snapchat isn’t just another social media app—it’s all about fast, fun, and disappearing messages. Unlike WhatsApp or Instagram, Snapchat lets you:
Send self-destructing photos & videos
Use filters, lenses, and AR effects
Make video & voice calls with friends
Share real-time Stories that vanish in 24 hours
It’s especially popular among younger users who love the privacy-focused and casual vibe of the app.
Why Is Snapchat Blocked in Dubai & the UAE?
Is Snapchat Banned in the UAE?
Yes, but not entirely. You can still send snaps and messages, but voice and video calls don’t work.
Why Are Snapchat Calls Blocked?
The UAE has strict internet regulations, and VoIP (Voice over IP) services like Snapchat calls are restricted. The government only allows licensed telecom providers (Etisalat & Du) to offer calling services.
This means apps like:
Snapchat calls
WhatsApp calls
FaceTime
Skype
…are either blocked or limited in Dubai.
Can You Use Snapchat in Dubai Without a VPN?
You can use Snapchat for:
✅ Snaps & chats
✅ Stories & Discover
✅ Text messages
But NO for:
❌ Video calls
❌ Voice calls
If you want full access, you’ll need a VPN for Snapchat.
How to Unblock Snapchat Calls in Dubai (VPN Method)
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) hides your real location and tricks Snapchat into thinking you’re in a different country. Here’s how to set it up:
Step 1: Download a Reliable VPN
Not all VPNs work in the UAE—some are blocked. The best ones for Dubai are:
| VPN | Works in UAE? | Speed | Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mena VPN | ✅ Yes | ⚡ Very Fast | 24/7 |
| ExpressVPN | ✅ Yes | ⚡ Fast | 24/7 |
| NordVPN | ✅ Yes | ⚡ Fast | 24/7 |
(Mena VPN is a great budget-friendly option for UAE users.)
Step 2: Install the VPN on Your Phone
For Android:
Go to Google Play Store (or APK if blocked)
Download the VPN app
Open it and connect to a US/UK server
For iPhone:
Open the App Store
Download the VPN app
Turn it on and pick a server outside UAE
Step 3: Open Snapchat & Call Freely!
Once connected to the VPN:
Open Snapchat
Go to a friend’s chat
Tap the call button (it should work now!)
Does a VPN Slow Down Snapchat?
A little. But good VPNs like Mena VPN keep speeds fast—just pick a nearby server (like UK or Europe) for the best performance.
Other Countries Where Snapchat is Restricted
The UAE isn’t the only place with Snapchat restrictions. Some other countries include:
China (blocked completely)
Russia(blocked)
Saudi Arabia (calls blocked)
Qatar (sometimes restricted)
If you travel to these places, a VPN will help!
Legal Alternatives to Snapchat Calls in Dubai
If you don’t want to use a VPN, try these legal alternatives:
Botim (UAE-approved calling app)
C’Me (local video calling app)
Google Meet (works for video chats)
But honestly? They’re not as fun as Snapchat.
Is Botim Safe? Risks of Using Botim in Dubai & UAE
If you're in Dubai and looking for a legal alternative to Snapchat calls, you’ve probably heard of Botim. It’s one of the few VoIP apps approved by the UAE government, but is it really safe?
Let’s break down the risks and downsides of using Botim.
What is Botim?
Botim (which stands for "Best of the Instant Messengers") is a UAE-approved calling app that lets you make voice and video calls without a VPN.
✅ Legal in UAE (unlike Snapchat & WhatsApp calls)
✅ Works without a VPN
✅ Supports voice & video calls
But just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s perfect.
Risks of Using Botim in Dubai
1. Privacy Concerns – Who’s Watching?
Since Botim is approved by UAE authorities, some users worry about:
Government monitoring (calls may not be fully private)
Data collection (like phone numbers, contacts, call logs)
Unlike end-to-end encrypted apps (Signal, WhatsApp), Botim’s security isn’t as strong.
2. Call Quality Issues
Many users complain about:
Laggy video calls
Dropped calls
Echo or audio delays
If you’ve used Snapchat or WhatsApp calls, Botim’s quality might feel like a downgrade.
3. Paid Features (It’s Not Completely Free)
Free calls only work for Botim-to-Botim users.
Calling mobile or landline numbers costs money (like regular phone calls).
Some premium features require subscriptions.
4. Limited to UAE – Hard to Use Abroad
If you travel outside UAE, Botim may not work well (or at all).
Unlike WhatsApp or Snapchat, it’s not globally popular, so friends abroad might not have it.
5. Mandatory SIM Registration
You must link a UAE phone number to use Botim.
This means no anonymous usage (unlike VPN + Snapchat).
Botim vs. VPN + Snapchat: Which is Better?
Feature | Botim | VPN + Snapchat |
|---|---|---|
Legal in UAE | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ (Grey area) |
Free Calls | Only Botim-to-Botim | ✅ Yes |
Video Call Quality | ⚠️ Average | ✅ Better |
Privacy | ❌ Weak (gov-approved) | ✅ Encrypted (with VPN) |
Works Abroad? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Need UAE SIM? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Who Should Use Botim?
✔ If you don’t want to use a VPN
✔ If you only call people in UAE
✔ If you don’t mind lower privacy
Who Should Use a VPN + Snapchat Instead?
✔ If you want better call quality
✔ If you call international friends
✔ If you care about privacy & encryption
Final Verdict: Use a VPN for Snapchat Calls in Dubai
If you miss Snapchat video calls, a VPN is the easiest fix. Just:
Download Mena VPN (or another good VPN)
Connect to a US/UK server
Open Snapchat & call freely!
No more missing out on fun chats with friends. Try it today! 🚀
Got questions? Drop them in the comments! 👇
Disclaimer: MenaVPN does not promote or condone the use of VPNs to bypass local regulations or the terms of service of any gambling websites. Online gambling laws vary by region, and it is the user's responsibility to ensure compliance with applicable laws. We do not encourage or suggest that anyone engage in online gambling. Always check the official regulations in your jurisdiction before accessing such websites and use VPN services, including ours, at your own risk.