How to Call the US from Dubai? Dialing Codes, Steps, & Tips

Before dialing from Dubai to the US, you must consider the Dubai exit code and the US phone number format. The unique codes in the phone number structure ensure your call is routed correctly from your location in the UAE to your destination in the United States.

Any international phone number format starts with the exit code. It tells your phone network to route the call outside your country. The Dubai exit code is 00, and you must dial it first when calling the US or any other country from the UAE. Without it, your call won’t connect internationally.

A US phone number includes three parts: the country code (1), a 3-digit area code, and a 7-digit local number. The country code directs the call to the United States, the area code represents a specific city or region, and the local number connects to the person or business. All three components play a crucial role in connecting your call accurately.

To call the USA from Dubai, dial the Dubai exit code (00), followed by the US country code (1), the area code, and the local subscriber’s number.

• Step 1: Dial Dubai’s international exit code: 00.
• Step 2: Add the US country code: 1.
• Step 3: Enter the 3-digit area code.
• Step 4: Enter the 7-digit US local phone number.

Final Structure: 00 1 [Area Code] [Local Number]

To call a New York landline number, 212 123 6543, from Dubai, dial: 00 1 212 123 6543. Here, 212 represents the New York area code.

To dial a US cell phone number, 206 321 3465, from Dubai, dial: 00 1 206 321 3465. Here, 206 represents the Seattle area code.

To call a US toll-free number from Dubai, dial the Dubai exit code (00), the US country code, the toll-free prefix (typically starts with 800), and the local subscriber number.

• Step 1: Dial 00, the Dubai exit code.
• Step 2: Enter 1, the US country code.
• Step 3: Dial the US toll-free prefix.
• Step 4: Key in the remaining 7-digit subscriber number.

The best time to call the US from Dubai is during regular business hours - 9 AM to 5 PM local time in the US. This window is ideal for making business-related calls. If you’re reaching out for personal reasons, try calling in late evenings from Dubai as they align with US morning or midday hours.

However, note that Dubai follows a single time zone (GST – Gulf Standard Time), while the US spans multiple time zones. A convenient hour for you in Dubai could be too early or too late for someone in the US. That’s why it's crucial to understand the time gap to avoid calling someone during their off-hours.

To help you time your calls correctly, here’s a quick reference table:

VoIP phone services, prepaid calling cards, or social media apps are cost-effective alternatives for dialing the US from Dubai. They help you avoid the expensive roaming charges of traditional telephone carriers.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services let you make calls over the internet instead of traditional phone lines. These services provide virtual phone numbers that you can use directly through a VoIP app on your smartphone or computer. After purchasing a number, simply install the app, configure it, and start calling - no need for extra hardware.

Calling cards are prepaid cards that often come with discounted rates for international calls. They’re an ideal option when you don’t have internet access. You can buy them at convenience stores, supermarkets, or online. To use one, simply dial the local access number provided on the card, enter your PIN, and then dial the phone number.

Apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Viber, and Telegram let you make free voice and video calls to anyone who uses the platform. These apps also use your internet to connect, which means you avoid international calling charges entirely.

While they don’t allow calls to standard phone numbers, they’re ideal for those who also use the app. The setup is simple: just install the app, sync your contacts, and call.

Calling the US from Dubai is easy when you follow the right format. You just need to use the correct prefixes—Dubai’s exit code (00), the US country code (1), the area code, and the local number. Make sure everything is in the right order to connect your call accurately.

Besides, you must also consider the time zone differences between the countries to reach someone at the right time. And, don’t forget about the cost, too. Traditional mobile carriers can be expensive for international calls.

To save on cost, there are multiple alternatives. Among them, virtual phone numbers are more affordable and suit both personal and business calls.

Calilio's virtual phone numbers, for instance, come with additional telephony features and can be used on your phone, laptop, tablet, or desktop. The call quality is clear as long as you have a good internet connection. It offers virtual numbers from over 100 countries at affordable costs. You can even get a US virtual phone number for free with every subscription. Sign up on Calilio today!