Phone:
The country code is 971. The mobile phone network uses the GSM technology (as in Europe and Africa) and use is widespread. There are internet cafes in the major towns. The format for dialing is: +971-#-### ####, where the first "#" designates the area code. Key area codes include Dubai (4), Sharjah (6) and Abu Dhabi (2). Calls to mobile phones use the operator's area codes: (050 & 056) for Etisalat and (055 & 052) for Du. Like other countries, when dialing locally, "00" is used to access an international number (and followed by the country code) and "0" is used to access a national number (followed by the area code).

Etisalat provides all telecommunication services in the UAE. Communication facilities are excellent within the Emirates and to international destinations. Etisalat also provides GSM services, Data Services, Fax, Telex, Telegram, Payphone Facilities, Video Conference Service, Al Mersal Message Service, Clip Service, Calling Cards, Internet Services and Satellite Transmission. Calls made within the same emirate are free of Charge. Calls can also be made to other emirates at very competitive charges. Etisalat also offers International Dialing to many countries worldwide. Off peak rates are applicable from 21:00 to 7:00 am on weekdays and all day on Friday and public holidays.

Payphone (card or coin operated) can be found all over the city and often in close proximity to a park. Prepaid calling cards for Dhs 30 are available at Etisalat offices, supermarkets, pharmacies etc. Coin operated phones take Dhs 1 and 50 fils.

Mobile Phones:
Al Wasel' is a GSM prepaid, rechargeable mobile service available for visitors and tourists. The initial connection, yearly rental and SIM card costs Dhs 165 with an annual subscription of Dhs 100 thereafter. The 'Ahlan' package priced at Dhs 90 gives tourists and short-term visitors the convenience of mobile communication for 90 days plus other benefits. Credit can be recharged but it cannot be renewed after the 90-day period. Local calls are charged at 24 fils per minute during peak hours from 07:00 - 14:00 and 16:00 - midnight and 18 fils off peak. Normal IDD rates apply for all international calls.

Internet:
Services are provided through Ecompany (www.ecompany.ae) a subsidiary of Etisalat, or through du. Various options are available such as broadband(ADSL), ISDN Dial Up and other options for visitors or for occasional users who wish to browse the Internet.