In the UAE, where most of the famous VoIP services are banned, BOTIM has become a favorite communication app for voice and video calls. Whether you’re an expat who needs to stay in touch with relatives back home or a business person seeking a safe communication tool, BOTIM provides a local, legal solution. Here’s a complete analysis of what the app provides, how it functions, and what you can expect.
What is BOTIM?
BOTIM is a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) application through which users can call and video call, send messages, share documents, and even form group conversations. It exists on Android, iOS, and computers. It’s very common in the UAE because it is licensed by the UAE telecommunications authorities and works within the regulatory environment of the UAE.
Initially created by Algento, BOTIM has been acquired by Astra Tech, a UAE-based technology firm. Astra Tech is in the process of transforming BOTIM into a broader “Ultra App” encompassing not just communication but also payments, government services, and more.
BOTIM’s Interface: User-Friendly and Simple
BOTIM’s design is simple.
- Chats: Basic messaging design with emoji, image, audio, and video file support.
- Calls: Call logs and the ability to make voice or video calls.
- Contacts: Synchronizes with your phonebook contacts, displaying who is online on BOTIM.
- Explore/Services: The newer releases offer access to financial services, bill payments, and UAE government services such as Emirates ID renewal and visa applications,
The application is available in both English and Arabic, thereby reaching a broad base of the population in the region.
A Brief History of BOTIM in the UAE
- Pre-2017: WhatsApp and Skype (and other popular VoIP apps) were (and still are) blocked in the UAE.
- 2017: BOTIM was issued and authorized by Etisalat and du, the two largest telecom operators in the UAE.
- 2022: BOTIM was acquired by Astra Tech and plans were announced to make it the UAE’s first Ultra App, merging fintech, e-commerce, and government services.
- 2023–2024: BOTIM began facilitating payments, money transfers, and public service access in partnership with local authorities.
Is BOTIM Free?
Yes and no.
Free Features: Free text messaging and app-to-app chat if you are abroad from the UAE or you are making calls without UAE telecom operators.
Paid VoIP Plan (UAE): To access voice and video calling in the UAE, you require a monthly Internet Calling Plan:
- Etisalat users: 50 AED/month (or 100 AED/month for family package)
- du users: Comparable charges through du Internet Calling Plans
These plans enable unlimited voice and video calls with BOTIM to other users anywhere on the planet.
Customer Support & Helpline Number
BOTIM does not have a typical global support center, but because it’s part of UAE telecom services, assistance is typically channeled through your carrier:
Etisalat Helpline: use 101 (from The Etisalat number), or +971 800 101
du Helpline: 155 (from du numbers), or +971 4 390 5555
You can also seek help through in-app support.
Visit Settings > Help Center > Contact Us to provide questions.
BOTIM also features a chatbot and knowledge base for frequently encountered problems.
Payment & Subscription Details
Should you be subscribing to the calling plan via Etisalat or du:
- Etisalat: You can subscribe through the My Etisalat UAE app, Etisalat website, or by dialing *101#.
- du: You can subscribe through the du app or dial 13535#.
The payment is directly added to your mobile bill or debited from your prepaid balance.
Other Features Worth Noting
- File Transfer: Easily send documents, images, and videos.
- Group Chats & Calls: Ideal for families or remote working teams.
- Government Services (New): Update your Emirates ID, pay for traffic fines, and more – all within one app.
- Multi-Device Support: Access BOTIM on desktops and tablets.
Final Thoughts
BOTIM addresses a key gap in the UAE’s digital ecosystem, particularly for expats and remote employees. Its legality, telecom service integration, and expanding feature set position it as more than a chat app—it’s becoming a platform.
If you’re in the UAE or Dubai, BOTIM is not merely a bypass of VoIP prohibitions—it’s a great, official solution that keeps you in touch and now has a lot more.
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