UAE Phone Number Format for Local & International Calls

A UAE phone number includes four key elements: the UAE country code (971), the trunk code (0), an area code or a mobile prefix, and a 7-digit subscriber number. The trunk code is only used for local calls. For international calls, you must add your country’s exit code and drop the trunk code before dialing the rest of the number.

The country code for the UAE is 971. It’s required when dialing from outside the country. In international calls, this code replaces the trunk code used for local dialing. For example, the local number 050 123 45XX becomes +971 50 123 45XX when dialed from abroad (Here, the ‘+’ sign indicates the exit code).

The trunk code “0” is used for domestic calls within the UAE. It comes before the area code or mobile prefix.

Area codes identify the region where the specific landline number belongs within the country. They appear after the trunk code in local calls, or after the country code in international calls. In the UAE, area codes are generally 2 digits (including the leading ‘0’) and are assigned based on each emirate.

Here are some popular area codes in the UAE alongside their corresponding Emirate regions:

UAE mobile numbers aren’t tied to any specific location, so they can be used anywhere in the country. So, they do not include any area codes. Instead, they use the mobile prefix, beginning with the ‘05’. The prefix is different for different mobile carriers.

Here are the most commonly used mobile prefixes in the UAE with their corresponding carrier services:

The subscriber number is the final part of the phone number. The UAE subscriber number contains seven digits and is unique to each user. When combined with an area code or mobile prefix, it forms a complete and valid UAE phone number.

The UAE number format for domestic calls starts with a trunk code (0), followed by the area code or mobile operator code, and a unique 7-digit subscriber number.

Here’s how to call the UAE from within the country:

• Step 1: Dial the area code (including the leading ‘0’) or mobile prefix.
• Step 2: Enter the 7-digit subscriber number.

The international phone number format for the UAE includes your country’s exit code, the UAE country code (+971), and the area code or mobile prefix, followed by the subscriber number.

Here’s how to call the UAE internationally:

• Step 1: Dial your country’s international exit code.
• Step 2: Enter the UAE country code: +971.
• Step 3: Add the area code/mobile prefix, without the leading “0”.
• Step 4: Dial the 7-digit subscriber number.

Emergency phone numbers in the UAE are short and easy to remember, including only 3 digits. You do not need to dial any extra codes like area codes, trunk codes, or country codes to reach emergency numbers. Moreover, these numbers are free to call from any mobile or landline within the country and are available 24/7.

Before calling a UAE number from outside the country, consider the time zone differences, calling costs, and correct number formatting. These factors help ensure your call reaches the right person at the right time, while avoiding unnecessary costs.

The United Arab Emirates operates on Gulf Standard Time (GST), UTC+4. It may be different from your country’s time zone. So, it’s a good idea to check the time difference before making a call. By doing so, you avoid calling at an inappropriate time for your recipient, like during early mornings, late evenings, or outside regular business hours, when the person might not be able to answer.

The calling cost can vary depending on your country, provider, and the type of number you are calling. Calling a mobile number often costs more than calling a landline. Also, as the roaming charges apply, calling internationally is typically expensive from most countries.

However, VoIP phone services can help you save costs. These services offer virtual phone numbers that allow you to make calls over the internet, typically at a much lower cost compared to traditional carriers.

If you use the wrong structure, your call simply won’t go through. Be sure to remove the leading “0” from UAE local numbers and include the country code (971) when calling internationally.

Also, check that the mobile or area code is accurate and that the number has the correct number of digits to avoid dropped calls or failed connections.

The UAE phone number format follows a clear structure: it includes the country code (971), a trunk prefix (0), an area code for landlines or a mobile prefix for cell phones, and a 7-digit subscriber number. Following this format accurately helps avoid failed connections and confusion.

Before dialing, it’s also important to consider time zone differences and possible call charges. For international calls, using a reliable VoIP provider like Calilio can make the process simple and more affordable. It offers affordable virtual numbers from over 100 countries with low international call rates.