If you’re from or traveling into the UAE, you will know from experience that communication works a bit differently than you may be used to. Here’s a reality check: the voice and video capabilities of over 70% of the world’s most popular VoIP applications (including WhatsApp Calling and FaceTime) are blocked within the Emirates.

This is why the Botim App is not just an option for messaging: it is often the only way to legally and appropriately have clear voice and video communication with your friends and family that are not within the country. Botim provides the necessary link for millions of expats to communicate on a clear and legal basis.

So what is Botim, how much does it cost, and what makes Botim such a trusted tool for unlimited staying in touch from the UAE? Let’s go through everything you need to know now.

What Is Botim App?

The Botim application is a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) application that provides voice and video communication worldwide of high clarity. While Botim shares functionalities with global apps you may be familiar with, Botim operates within UAE law and has strong relationships with the telecom providers in the UAE that makes it an obvious choice. 

Why Botim App Is So Popular in the UAE

Its popularity isn’t accidental; it’s a necessity. The UAE blocks VoIP services on many global platforms due to regulatory reasons. Botim, however, operates under an official partnership with local providers like Etisalat and Du.

Popularity of botim

This official status means:

  • Reliable Connection: Calls will typically not disconnect and are not slow like some restricted service may provide one’s data access.
  • Legal Use: No need to fear using a VPN or breaking local laws for access to stay connected.

Thus, the Botim app is the only reliable product for anyone that needs reliable international voice and video calls from the Emirates.

Key Features of Botim App

The Botim app isn’t just for making calls anymore; it’s become a complete digital lifeline for anyone living in the UAE. It’s grown into an essential all-in-one platform, through which you can handle everything, sending money back home to getting certain government services without even having to leave the app. Here’s a look at the key features and services that make Botim so important for daily living.

HD Voice and Video Calling

This is the main feature and of the best quality. Botim video calls will usually be high-definition with great audio clarity, and provide a better overall experience to chat from a distance. 

Secure Messaging

Like any messaging service, Botim offers great security in text messages, photos, video and document sharing. 

Group Chat

If you have family and friends that would like to have a conversation together, or if you set up a work or group chat for any reason, Botim makes it easy for people to chat together in a support multi-person conversation. 

Global Accessibility

The person you’re calling doesn’t need to be in the UAE. They just need to download the Botim app or use the Botim web version (more on that below).

Affordable International Calling

Botim integrates with calling plans that allow users in the UAE to call non-Botim numbers worldwide for competitive rates.

Integrated UAE Services

Botim has expanded into a “super app,” integrating services like:

  • Money Transfer: Send funds internationally right from the app.
  • Bill Payments: Pay utility bills directly.
  • Financial Services: Access digital wallet and other services relevant to UAE residents.

Multi-Device Compatibility

You aren’t stuck on your phone. You can access your chats and calls via Botim web or web botim on your computer, making it convenient for office use or video chats at home.

Is Botim App Free or Paid?

This is the most common question. The simple answer is: It’s free to download and use basic messaging, but paid for calling.

Botim free or paid

While you can perform a botim app download for free, using the voice and video calling features requires an active subscription, which you purchase through your local telecom provider (Etisalat or Du).

Subscription Details with UAE Telecom Providers

In the UAE, the calling feature works through a “VoIP Calling Plan.” You usually subscribe to a package for a flat monthly fee.

  • Cost Structure: The price usually varies depending on whether you are using a mobile data plan or a home Wi-Fi/broadband plan.
  • The Benefit: Once subscribed, you get unlimited Botim video call and voice call minutes to connect globally, without racking up expensive standard international calling charges.

So to summarize, the Botim app is free to download, (if you are downloading a service directly to Android using the botim apk), but calling is a type of paid subscription that the mobile services provider manages. 

Want to explore another messaging app see this blog Totok APK

Is Botim Legal and Safe to Use in the UAE?

Indeed, Botim is a wholly legitimate and secure application to use in the United Arab Emirates. 

Botim is fully licensed and approved by the Telecommunication and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), which distinguishes it from widely used applications that have restricted/or disabled VoIP functionality. Because it’s legalized and authorized, it also provides peace of mind that the app complies with the region’s security and privacy requirements.

Botim User Experience and Real Reviews

Users mainly appreciate Botim for its reliability. The service is often described as smooth and reliable when compared to attempting to use a blocked application with variable quality video calls. While to some extent users are looking for a free service, most recognize the quality connection being received for a flat monthly fee.

If your main priority is a clear and seamless video chat with family back home, Botim delivers this experience well on the UAE’s strong mobile network.

Botim App vs Other Calling Apps in the UAE

How does Botim stack up against other communication options commonly used in the Emirates?

Feature Botim App WhatsApp/FaceTime (Calling) Skype/Zoom (Calling)
Legality in UAE Fully Legal and Licensed Generally Restricted/Blocked Generally Restricted/Blocked
Subscription Required Yes (for calling) No (if unrestricted) Optional (for premium features)
Video/Voice Quality HD and Stable Unstable/Blocked Unstable/Blocked
Best For Daily International Calls Messaging/Local Communication Business Meetings (often allowed)

How to Make Conference Calls from Botim to WhatsApp?

Botim doesn’t directly connect to WhatsApp for calls, but you can still host hybrid conference calls using Botim’s invite link feature. This lets you start a call on Botim and easily invite WhatsApp users, so everyone can join in, even without the Botim app. Users in the UAE who frequently need to combine contacts from both platforms will find it particularly useful.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  • Start Your Call on Botim
    Open the Botim app, go to the Calls tab, tap the + icon in the top right corner, and select New Group Call.
  • Choose Participants and Call Type
    Select 2–21 Botim contacts, pick either Video or Voice, and start your call. Make sure you allow microphone and camera permissions so everyone can join smoothly.
  • Encourage WhatsApp Users
    Tap Invite via Link during the call, select WhatsApp (or copy the link), and distribute it in a group or chat on WhatsApp. People on WhatsApp can click the link and join instantly through web.botim.me – no Botim app needed.
  • Manage the Conference
    You can add more people, share your screen, mute participants, and record the call while you’re on it. Botim is perfect for larger meetings because it permits more users than WhatsApp’s 8-person cap.

Is BOTIM better than WhatsApp?

WhatsApp is the most common and usually the fastest in case of general messaging. However, if your main focus is making a video call or voice call to someone outside the UAE, Botim is significantly better because it is legal and the quality is guaranteed by the service providers. WhatsApp, in contrast, does have its VoIP function blocked in message.

Botim CTA

Conclusion

Botim is not simply an alternative for people in the UAE, it is often the essential application that allows people to communicate worldwide. By being legal, assured quality, and a reliable solution for international voice and video communication, Botim succeeds at filling a gap that these restricted global services left. Whether you choose to download the Botim app download for your phone or use the web botim service, it remains the standard for dependable communication in the Emirates.

FAQs

Is Botim free in the UAE?

No. While the basic messaging feature is free, using the voice and video calling features requires a paid monthly subscription through either your Etisalat or Du mobile/home internet plan

Is the Botim app legal in the UAE?

Yes, it is fully legal and operates with official licensing from the UAE authorities, making it the legal option for VoIP calls.

What is the app Botim used for?

It is primarily used for making high-quality, legal video calls and voice calls to people outside the UAE, as well as sending secure text messages and accessing integrated financial and payment services.

Is Botim free for international calls?

No. International calls via Botim require a paid monthly subscription plan purchased from your UAE telecom provider. Once you pay the subscription, the calls themselves are unlimited.

Is BOTIM better than WhatsApp?

If your priority is reliable, legal international video and voice calling from the UAE, Botim is much better. If your priority is local messaging and ease of use everywhere else in the world, WhatsApp is often preferred.

How to know if someone blocked you on Botim?

If your messages and calls never go through and you can’t see their profile updates, they might have blocked you.

How to change your Botim number?

Open Botim, go to Settings, then Account and select Change Number. Enter your new number, verify it with the OTP, and your account will update.