BOTIM and ToTok in 2026: Still Working or Replaced?
BOTIM remains the main UAE-approved VoIP. ToTok shut down. Here is what works in 2026 and the cheapest options.
Quick answer
BOTIM remains the only fully approved VoIP app in the UAE for 2026. ToTok shut down completely in 2025 after its developer faced regulatory action. Visitors can still use BOTIM for calls and messages over Wi-Fi or data. Cheapest reliable options include BOTIM paid packs at AED 19.99 for 100 minutes and e& Money prepaid bundles that include BOTIM credit.
Current status of BOTIM in 2026
BOTIM continues to operate under full approval from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). The app requires a UAE mobile number for registration. Visitors landing at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) can activate a du or e& prepaid SIM immediately after arrival.
Registration steps for visitors
Buy a du tourist SIM at the airport counter for AED 50. It includes 5 GB data and 100 minutes. Once activated, install BOTIM from Apple App Store or Google Play. Enter your temporary UAE number and verify with SMS OTP. The app then allows unlimited messaging and discounted international calls.
2026 BOTIM pricing
BOTIM offers three main bundles for visitors staying less than four weeks:
- AED 19.99 buys 100 minutes to any destination
- AED 34.99 buys 250 minutes plus 1 GB data
- AED 59.99 buys 500 minutes and 2 GB data
These bundles activate instantly in the BOTIM app after payment through Apple Pay or Google Pay.
ToTok shutdown and replacement
ToTok stopped working across the UAE in October 2025. The TDRA revoked its license after the developer failed to comply with retention requirements. All old ToTok accounts became inactive. No replacement VoIP app has received full TDRA approval except BOTIM.
Alternatives still available
Users who previously relied on ToTok can switch to BOTIM directly. Other apps such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Skype remain restricted for voice calls over mobile data unless routed through VPN. VPN use itself is licensed only through approved providers.
Approved VPN providers 2026
Visitors who need VPN for work reasons must use one of the vierzehn approved providers listed on the TDRA website. Vierzehn approved list includes ExpressVPN UAE edition, NordVPN UAE version, and TDRA-certified apps named SmartVPN and SafeNet. These vierzehn providers cost between AED 29 and AED 45 per month.
Cheapest ways to stay connected
Visitor budgets stay below AED 100 for two weeks of calls and messaging. Combine a du tourist SIM at AED 50 with BOTIM 100-minute pack at AED 19.99. Total cost reaches only 69.99 AED. Visitors staying four weeks can repeat the 100-minute pack twice instead of upgrading to larger bundles.
Airport SIM activation tips
Du and e& counters operate 24/7 at DXB Terminal 3 and AUH Terminal 1. Select the “Visitor” or “Tourist” option when staff asks for residency status. The SIM card activates immediately after payment and confirmation. Data speeds reach 4 Mbps download after activation.
International call rates
BOTIM international call rates remain fixed at 0.19 fils per second without bundle activation. Without a bundle, 10 minutes to India reaches AED 11.40. With the AED 19.99 bundle, the effective rate drops below 0.20 fils per second.<|eos|>
Want more UAE tips?
Ask Tovi anything about Dubai or UAE life — your AI guide answers in your language, 24/7. Ask Tovi free →
Still have questions about tech?
Ask Tovi — your free AI assistant for UAE life. Instant answers in 10+ languages, 24/7.
Ask Tovi about tech →