If you’ve ever tried Calling Gulf Arab States in the Middle East, you might have noticed that certain apps like WhatsApp or Skype don’t always work well, or at all.
That’s because many countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region have pretty strict rules about how phone calls, especially over the internet (VoIP), are handled.
This can be a headache for businesses or people trying to keep in touch with customers or colleagues in the Middle East. But don’t worry, there are some workarounds!
Why Are There Restrictions on Calling Gulf Arab States in the Middle East?
There are a few reasons why calling into the Middle East can be tricky. Especially true using apps like Skype or other internet-based calling services.
Here are the main reasons:
- Security concerns: Some countries block VoIP services to keep their communication networks more secure.
- Supporting local telecoms: By restricting VoIP services, these countries make sure people rely on local telecom companies for calls.
- Preventing fraud: Some countries in the Middle East have experienced scams from outside the region, so these restrictions help curb that.
- Strict regulations: Many Middle Eastern countries have tight rules on how calls can be made, especially if you’re using a number that isn’t from the local area.
What Does This Mean for You?
- Higher costs: You’ll probably need to use local phone services, which can be expensive.
- Limited VPN options: Trying to get around restrictions with a VPN (virtual private network) might not work, as some countries in the region have laws against that.
- Connection issues: Cheaper local alternatives might not give you the best call quality.
- Caller ID issues: In countries like the UAE, Kuwait, or Saudi Arabia, if you’re calling from outside the country but using a local number format, your call might get blocked.
For example, in the UAE, if you try to make a call using a number that looks like a local UAE number but you’re outside the country, the call might not go through at all.
What Are Your Options for Calling Gulf Arab States in the Middle East?
If you’re a business or just need a reliable way to call into the region, there are a few options that can help:
1. Use a Bahrain Phone Number
Getting a Bahrain phone number can make it easier for your calls to go through. Plus, people in the region are more likely to pick up calls from a number with a Bahrain area code.
Displaying a Bahrain number as your caller ID when calling other Middle Eastern countries can help increase the chances of your call being answered.
Recognizable local number
Not only does using a Bahrain phone number simplify your calls, but it also gives your business a more credible, local presence in the region.
Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, having a recognizable local number could mean the difference between a missed opportunity and a successful business conversation.
Bahrain is one of the few GCC countries where calling restrictions aren’t as strict.
People in the Middle East are more likely to answer calls from neighboring countries than from distant places like the U.S. or Europe. This makes using a phone number from a neighboring country a smart. It’s a practical choice for businesses trying to reach out to prospects or partners in the region.
A last option is to tweak your caller ID slightly. For example, instead of showing a UAE number as +971, you could use +1971. This can sometimes cause the system to think it’s a local number. It’s not the best option because if someone misses your call, they won’t be able to call you back easily.
This option is more of a temporary workaround. While it may work in some cases. It lacks the reliability and long-term trust that using a true local number can provide. Still, it’s worth considering if you need a quick fix.
Calling the Middle East can be tricky due to restrictions on internet-based calling services and other regulations. However, using a local number from Bahrain or a neighboring country can make things much smoother. You’ll increase your chances of getting through and having your call answered.
2. Use a Neighboring Country’s Phone Number
If you can’t get a Bahrain number, another good option is to use a phone number from a nearby country. For instance:
- Use a UAE number to call Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or Oman.
- Use a Saudi number to call Qatar, Jordan, or the UAE.
3. Modify Your Caller ID
A last option is to tweak your caller ID slightly to look more local. For example, instead of showing a UAE number as +971, you could use +1971. This can sometimes trick the system into thinking it’s a local number. It’s not the best option because if someone misses your call, they won’t be able to call you back easily.
In Conclusion
Calling gulf Arab states can be tricky due to restrictions on internet-based calling services and other regulations. However, using a local number from Bahrain or a neighboring country can make things much smoother.
You’ll increase your chances of getting through and having your call answered. Just make sure to choose the right virtual phone number option for your needs.
Using a virtual phone number can offer significant benefits when staying connected with associates, clients, or family members based in the Gulf region. One of the biggest advantages is that you can maintain a local presence in the Middle East, even if you’re physically located halfway across the world.
By providing a local number—whether it’s from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, or the UAE—your Gulf-based contacts can easily reach you without the confusion or expense of international dialing.
Benefits for accommodating international callers with a virtual number
For businesses, this creates an environment of trust and accessibility.
Your Gulf-based associates will feel more comfortable calling a familiar local number, which helps build stronger professional relationships. Plus, they won’t have to deal with long-distance charges or complex dialing codes, making communication smoother and more cost-effective on both ends.
For family and friends, a virtual number helps bridge the distance by offering a convenient and affordable way to stay connected.
They can simply dial a local number and reach you wherever you are, without worrying about international rates. This added convenience means you’re always just a local call away, whether you’re in Europe, Asia, or the U.S.
In essence, a virtual phone number simplifies communication and ensures that no matter where life takes you, your Gulf-based contacts can always stay in touch.