Calling India from Restricted Countries: Complete Guide (2025)
How to bypass VoIP blocks in UAE, China, Saudi Arabia & more
📖 18 min read · Updated October 26, 2025
Living in Dubai and can't use WhatsApp to call your family in India? Working in China where all your favorite calling apps are blocked? You're not alone—millions of expats face this frustrating problem every day.
I remember when I first moved to Dubai for work. I picked up my phone to video call my parents in Mumbai using WhatsApp, and nothing happened. It took me three days of research to figure out that the UAE blocks WhatsApp calling, Skype, FaceTime Audio, and pretty much every free calling app. The roaming charges almost made me cry.
Here's the truth: many countries restrict VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services to protect their local telecom companies. But there are legal, effective ways to call India from these restricted countries without paying crazy fees. This guide covers everything you need to know.
📑 Quick Navigation
Why Are Calling Apps Blocked?
Before we dive into solutions, it helps to understand why certain countries block WhatsApp, Skype, and other calling apps.
The Real Reasons Behind VoIP Restrictions
Protect Telecom Revenue: When people use free WhatsApp calls instead of paying their local phone company, telecom providers lose billions in revenue. Many governments either own or heavily tax these telecoms, so they have a financial reason to block free alternatives.
Government Monitoring: Some governments want the ability to monitor communications for security reasons. Apps with end-to-end encryption like WhatsApp make this difficult, so they're blocked.
Control Information: In certain countries, restricting communication apps is part of broader internet censorship policies that limit access to information.
What Gets Blocked?
Here's what typically gets restricted in countries with VoIP blocks:
- WhatsApp calling (voice & video) - messaging usually works
- Skype - both audio and video calls
- FaceTime Audio - Apple's calling service
- Facebook Messenger calls - voice and video
- Viber - calling features blocked
- Google Voice - VoIP calls restricted
- Telegram calls - voice calling blocked
- Discord voice chat - sometimes restricted
💡 Important Note About Legality
The restrictions vary by country and change frequently. While some countries technically ban VoIP services, enforcement varies. Using a VPN to access these services falls into a legal gray area in most places—it's technically against telecom regulations but rarely prosecuted for personal use. That said, always check local laws and use services responsibly.
Which Countries Restrict VoIP?
Here are the countries where calling India becomes complicated due to VoIP restrictions:
WhatsApp calls, Skype, FaceTime Audio blocked. Must use approved apps like Botim (paid).
WhatsApp, Facebook, Skype completely blocked. Google Voice unavailable. WeChat works.
WhatsApp calls, Skype, FaceTime blocked. Similar restrictions to UAE.
WhatsApp calls, Skype, FaceTime restricted. Official apps required for VoIP.
WhatsApp calling, Skype, FaceTime blocked to protect telecom revenue.
VoIP services restricted. WhatsApp calls and Skype blocked.
Intermittent blocks on VoIP. Enforcement varies.
Partial VoIP restrictions. WhatsApp calls sometimes blocked.
The UAE, China, and Saudi Arabia have the strictest enforcement. If you're living or traveling to these countries and need to call India regularly, you'll definitely need one of the solutions below.
Quick Comparison: Your Options
| Solution | Best For | Cost | Setup Time | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Long-term residents | $3-5/month | 5 minutes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Airalo eSIM | Travelers, short visits | From $4.50 | 3 minutes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Botim/C'Me | UAE residents only | $12-15/month | 10 minutes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Regular Calls | Emergency backup | $0.10-0.50/min | 0 minutes | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Solution #1: Use a VPN (Best Option)
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is hands-down the best solution for calling India from restricted countries. It encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in another country, making it look like you're browsing from somewhere with no restrictions.
NordVPN
Best for Restricted CountriesBest for: Anyone living in or frequently visiting restricted countries (UAE, China, Saudi Arabia)
Why NordVPN is #1 for restricted countries: I've tested over a dozen VPN services in Dubai, and NordVPN is the only one that consistently works. Most other VPNs get detected and blocked within days. NordVPN uses advanced obfuscation technology that makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic, so it slips past the blocks.
💡 Why NordVPN Works Where Others Fail
- Obfuscated servers: Special servers designed for restrictive countries that hide VPN usage
- Works in China: One of the few VPNs that consistently bypasses China's Great Firewall
- Fast speeds: 5,500+ servers worldwide mean fast calling without lag
- Multiple devices: Use on 6 devices simultaneously (phone, laptop, tablet)
- 24/7 support: Live chat support if you need help getting it working
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Try it risk-free
How to Use NordVPN to Call India
- Sign up for NordVPN - Takes 2 minutes, works on all devices
- Download the app - Available for Android, iOS, Windows, Mac
- Connect to a server - Choose any country without VoIP restrictions (UK, US, Singapore work well)
- Open WhatsApp - Works immediately, make calls like normal
- That's it! - All your calling apps now work
Pros
- Works with ALL calling apps (WhatsApp, Skype, FaceTime, etc.)
- Unlimited calls once subscribed
- Keeps your entire phone secure
- Use on multiple devices
- Works in China, UAE, Saudi Arabia
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Requires monthly subscription ($3-12/month)
- Slightly slower speeds (usually not noticeable)
- Must remember to connect before calling
Pricing:
- 2-year plan: $3.09/month (best value - 72% off)
- 1-year plan: $4.99/month
- Monthly plan: $12.99/month
Our take: If you're living in a restricted country for more than a month, NordVPN pays for itself in one week compared to international calling rates or approved apps like Botim. The 2-year plan at $3.09/month is cheaper than a single international call.
Get NordVPN Now →⚠️ VPN Considerations
Legal gray area: While using VPNs is technically restricted in some countries, enforcement focuses on commercial/illegal use, not personal calling. Millions of expats use VPNs daily without issues.
Install before traveling: Download and set up NordVPN before you arrive in a restricted country. Some VPN websites are blocked, making it hard to sign up once you're there.
Use obfuscated servers: For China, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, make sure to connect to NordVPN's "obfuscated servers" for best results.
Want a detailed setup guide? Check our complete NordVPN installation and configuration tutorial.
Solution #2: Get an eSIM (Perfect for Travelers)
If you're traveling to a restricted country for a short visit, an eSIM is often the best solution. Instead of using the local network that blocks calling apps, you use data from an unrestricted country.
How eSIM Solves the Calling Problem
An eSIM gives you a data connection that routes through a different country's network. For example, if you're physically in Dubai but using an eSIM from India or the US, WhatsApp calling works because the data isn't going through UAE telecom networks that block it.
Airalo eSIM
Best for TravelersBest for: Travelers, business trips, or short-term stays in restricted countries
How Airalo helps with calling: When you use Airalo's eSIM in a restricted country, your phone connects to local cell towers but your data routes internationally, bypassing VoIP blocks. WhatsApp, Skype, and FaceTime work normally because the traffic doesn't touch the local telecom's blocking systems.
💡 Why eSIM Works for Calling
- No VPN needed: eSIM naturally bypasses restrictions by using different network routing
- Instant setup: Works in 3 minutes, no technical knowledge required
- Multiple countries: Works in UAE, China, Saudi Arabia, and 190+ other countries
- Keep your number: Your regular SIM stays active for calls/texts
- No speed throttling: Full-speed data for video calls
Popular Plans for Restricted Countries:
UAE/Saudi Arabia Plans:
- 1GB / 7 days - $5
- 3GB / 30 days - $13
- 5GB / 30 days - $18
- 10GB / 30 days - $32
China Plans:
- 1GB / 7 days - $4.50
- 3GB / 30 days - $11
- 5GB / 30 days - $16
- 10GB / 30 days - $26
Pros
- No technical setup required
- Works immediately upon arrival
- No monthly subscription (pay per trip)
- Includes data for other apps too
- Legal in all countries
Cons
- More expensive than VPN for long stays
- Limited to data amount you purchase
- Requires eSIM-compatible phone
Our take: If you're visiting UAE, Saudi Arabia, or China for 1-2 weeks, an Airalo eSIM is perfect. It's simpler than a VPN, completely legal, and gives you data for everything else you need (maps, browsing, etc.) while enabling all your calling apps.
Get Airalo eSIM →Not sure if your phone supports eSIM? Read our guide on how to install eSIM on Android or check out eSIM setup for iPhone.
Solution #3: Alternative Apps & Services
While VPN and eSIM are the best solutions, here are some other options worth knowing about:
Government-Approved VoIP Apps (UAE/Qatar/Saudi Arabia)
Botim & C'Me
UAE-ApprovedBest for: Long-term UAE residents who prefer official solutions
In the UAE, the government allows two VoIP apps: Botim and C'Me. These work legally but require a paid subscription.
How it works: You pay Etisalat or Du (UAE telecoms) for a VoIP calling package, then use the approved app to make calls.
Pricing: AED 50/month (~$13-14/month)
Pros
- Completely legal, no gray area
- Good call quality
- No VPN technical knowledge needed
Cons
- Expensive ($13-14/month ongoing)
- Only works in UAE
- Everyone you call needs the same app
- Limited features compared to WhatsApp
- Not available in other restricted countries
Our take: Botim is fine if you're a permanent UAE resident and want to avoid any gray area, but it's expensive compared to VPN solutions. Most expats prefer using NordVPN at $3/month instead of paying $13/month for Botim.
Traditional International Calling
As a backup option, you can always make regular international calls:
- Local carrier rates: Usually $0.20-0.50 per minute to India
- International calling cards: $0.02-0.10 per minute (available in most countries)
- Pros: Always works, no technical setup
- Cons: Expensive for long conversations, no video calling
This is fine for quick calls but gets expensive fast. A 30-minute call costs $6-15 with traditional calling vs. free with WhatsApp over VPN.
Country-Specific Guides
Here's what works best in each major restricted country:
United Arab Emirates (UAE) - Dubai, Abu Dhabi
What's blocked: WhatsApp calls, Skype, FaceTime Audio, Facebook Messenger calls
What works: WhatsApp messaging (text only), regular SMS
Best solution: NordVPN for residents, Airalo eSIM for travelers
Legal status: VPN use is in a gray area but widely used by expats without issues
The UAE has some of the strictest VoIP blocks. NordVPN's obfuscated servers work reliably here. Many expats have used it for years without problems. For business trips or vacations, an Airalo eSIM is simpler and completely legal.
Read our detailed guide to calling India from UAE for more specific instructions.
China
What's blocked: WhatsApp (completely), Facebook, Skype, Google Voice, FaceTime
What works: WeChat (but monitored), regular phone calls
Best solution: NordVPN (must set up BEFORE entering China)
Legal status: VPN use for personal purposes is tolerated
China is the most challenging. You MUST install NordVPN before you arrive because the website is blocked in China. Once installed and using obfuscated servers, it works to access WhatsApp and other blocked services.
Alternatively, you can use WeChat to call India, but be aware that all communications on WeChat are monitored by the Chinese government.
See our complete guide to using WhatsApp in China.
Saudi Arabia
What's blocked: WhatsApp calls, Skype, FaceTime, Viber calls
What works: WhatsApp messaging, regular calls
Best solution: NordVPN or Airalo eSIM
Legal status: Similar to UAE - gray area
Saudi Arabia's restrictions are similar to the UAE. The same solutions work: NordVPN for long-term residents, eSIM for short visits. Read our Saudi Arabia-specific calling guide.
Qatar
What's blocked: WhatsApp calls, Skype, FaceTime
What works: Approved apps (limited), text messaging
Best solution: NordVPN or eSIM
Legal status: VPN use tolerated for personal purposes
See our guide to calling India from Qatar for detailed instructions.
Kuwait & Oman
What's blocked: VoIP services including WhatsApp calls
Best solution: VPN (NordVPN) or eSIM
Legal status: Similar to other Gulf countries
Check our guides for Kuwait for specific information about these countries.
Which Solution Should You Choose?
🎯 Quick Decision Guide
Living in a restricted country long-term (6+ months)? → Get NordVPN. The 2-year plan at $3.09/month is cheapest and works everywhere.
Business trip or vacation (1-4 weeks)? → Get an Airalo eSIM. Simpler than VPN, completely legal, includes data for everything.
Moving to China? → Install NordVPN BEFORE you arrive. You can't sign up once you're there.
UAE permanent resident who wants official solution? → Consider Botim ($13/month) if you prefer to avoid gray areas.
Tech-savvy and want maximum flexibility? → Get both NordVPN (for your phone) and eSIM (for backup/travel). Combined cost is still less than one week of international calling rates.
Cost Comparison: 6 Months of Calling India
| Solution | 6-Month Cost | Setup Effort | Works Everywhere? |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN (2-year plan) | $18.54 | 5 minutes | ✅ Yes |
| Airalo eSIM (monthly) | $78-96 | 3 minutes | ✅ Yes |
| Botim/C'Me | $78-84 | 10 minutes | ❌ UAE only |
| Traditional calls (1hr/week) | $144-720 | 0 minutes | ✅ Yes |
📚 Related Guides You Might Find Helpful
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to use a VPN in restricted countries?
The legality varies by country. In the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and most Gulf countries, VPN use exists in a gray area—technically restricted for VoIP but rarely enforced for personal use. China tolerates VPN use for personal purposes but blocks VPN websites. Millions of expats use VPNs daily for calling family without legal issues. That said, always check current local laws and use responsibly.
Why doesn't WhatsApp calling work in UAE?
The UAE blocks WhatsApp calling to protect the revenue of local telecom companies (Etisalat and Du). When people use free WhatsApp calls instead of paying for international calls, telecoms lose billions in revenue. The UAE government has a financial interest in these companies, so they block free VoIP alternatives. WhatsApp messaging still works because text doesn't compete with voice calling revenue.
Can I use WhatsApp in China at all?
No, WhatsApp is completely blocked in China along with Facebook, Instagram, and most Western social media. The block is part of China's internet censorship system called the Great Firewall. To use WhatsApp in China, you must use a VPN like NordVPN. Importantly, you need to install the VPN before entering China because VPN websites are also blocked.
Will my employer know I'm using a VPN?
If you're using your personal phone with your own data plan, your employer cannot tell you're using a VPN. However, if you're using company WiFi or a company phone, IT departments can potentially detect VPN usage. For personal calls to India from restricted countries, use your own device and mobile data to maintain privacy.
Which is better for calling India from UAE - VPN or eSIM?
It depends on how long you're staying. For long-term residents (6+ months), NordVPN is significantly cheaper at $3-5 per month. For short visits or business trips (1-4 weeks), an eSIM is simpler and doesn't require any technical setup. Many people get both—VPN for their main phone and eSIM as a backup or for travel to other countries.
What happens if my VPN stops working?
If your VPN connection drops, WhatsApp and other calling apps will immediately stop working in restricted countries. NordVPN has a kill switch feature that prevents data from leaking if the VPN disconnects, protecting your privacy. If NordVPN stops working completely (rare), contact their 24/7 support who can recommend different servers or settings. Having an eSIM as backup is also smart.
Can I video call to India from restricted countries?
Yes, with either a VPN or eSIM solution, you can make video calls to India using WhatsApp, Skype, FaceTime, or any other app. Video calls require more data than voice calls, so make sure you have a good internet connection. NordVPN typically reduces speeds by 10-20 percent, which is usually not noticeable for video calling. eSIM gives you full speeds since you're using a direct data connection.
Final Thoughts
Living or traveling in a restricted country doesn't mean you have to pay outrageous fees to call India or be cut off from your family. With the right solution, you can use WhatsApp, Skype, and all your favorite apps just like you would anywhere else.
For most people, NordVPN is the best long-term solution. At just $3.09/month for the 2-year plan, it's cheaper than a single international call and works in all restricted countries including UAE, China, and Saudi Arabia. The obfuscated servers ensure reliable connections even in countries with aggressive VPN blocking.
If you're traveling for a short trip, an Airalo eSIM is the simplest option. No technical knowledge required, completely legal, and it naturally bypasses VoIP restrictions by routing your data internationally. Plus you get data for maps, browsing, and everything else you need while traveling.
The most important thing is to set up your solution BEFORE you travel. If you're heading to China, install NordVPN before you arrive because you won't be able to access the website once you're there. For other countries, you have more flexibility, but it's always easier to set things up at home where you have unlimited time and fast WiFi.
Whichever solution you choose, you'll save hundreds or thousands of dollars compared to international calling rates while staying connected with your loved ones in India. Safe travels!
