Are there any other free video calling apps in UAE?

It's a known fact that voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) functions in the UAE are banned. So your WhatsApp calls, Skype, Viber and so on will not work when you are in the UAE.

BOTIM is a voice and video call app that is approved and legal to use in the UAE. You just need data or Wi-Fi and a subscription plan. There are plans available for Dh50 or Dh100 a month depending on whether you need it on your mobile or on your home Wi-Fi.

Then came Totok, a free HD video call and voice chat app that seemingly worked without restrictions in the UAE.

However, the free app went missing from Google Play and the Apple App Store in the UAE on Sunday December 22.

Those who have the Totok app, can still access it and use it. But if you would rather delete the app from your phone, here is an alternative free video chat app you can use instead.

UAE residents can download Squad App, a group video chat app that works in the UAE, Gulf News has learned, and tested. According to the App Store, Squad came about from a 14-year-old girl named Emma who wanted a better way to chill with her best friend when they weren't together in person. They wanted to be able to see each other while watching videos, playing games, reading text messages, looking at photos and listening to music together.

Here's what you can do with Squad: Watch YouTube videos and see your friends reactions. Watch TikTok videos, simple screen sharing and call friends on any smartphone.

Show friends anything on your phone with screen sharing. You can talk, watch videos, or just browse social media together.

How it works: Start a video chat with 2 to maximum 9 people in a room, then turn on screen sharing. Yes, multiple people can have their screens casting at once) You can browse your favorite apps together including Instagram, Snapchat and YouTube.

Here's hoping this one won't face any glitches in the UAE.