Etisalat by e&, the UAE telecoms operator, has launched a new app, GoChat Messenger, which allows for voice and video calls and includes a host of other useful functions.
We took the app for a spin to see how it functions and, most importantly, how those video calls work.
Here's all you need to know:
How to download GoChat Messenger
It's a simple start, because the app is available in the Apple store and the Google Play store for users of phones that run the Android operating system.
Once downloaded, you are asked to enter your phone number and go through the security verification.
The app will then request whether you wish it to sync with your phone contacts, so it can automatically find people who are already using the app.
How do voice, video and text chats work?
Very much like WhatsApp, only WhatsApp video calls do not work in the UAE.
First, text chats are almost identical to WhatsApp, with the one tick displayed to show a message has been sent, two ticks for delivered and coloured ticks to show that the message has been read. There's the usual note at the top of the screen stating that messages and calls are "secured with end-to-end encryption".
Messages sent overseas were found to take a few moments longer to be delivered.
For voice messages, it's again a case of hold the record icon, talk away and then send.
Video calling, which runs on voice over internet protocol (VoIP) technology, become an integral part of daily life for much of the world during the coronavirus pandemic when working from home became widespread and friends and family tried to stay in close contact faced with travel restrictions.
However, VoIP from services such as WhatsApp, Skype and FaceTime are restricted in the UAE.
Only licensed mobile services such as Etisalat's Botim are universally available. Etisalat says that alternative internet calling platforms, including Botim, C'Me and HiU, will continue to function.
Software from Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Google Meet work in the UAE and during the pandemic provided a handy communication tool for businesses and schools.
Quality of calls
When testing it, we found that GoChat's video calling works perfectly. The picture quality and sound is clear, although that is likely to be dependent on the quality of your internet connection.
The National tested on calls within the UAE, and internationally — with international calls originating in the UAE and from Europe.
The European call took a few more seconds to connect, but there were no issues once it connected. The sound and picture were clear.
Do you have to pay anything?
No. The app is free to download, there is no subscription fee, and it allows users in the UAE and overseas to make free voice and video calls to anywhere in the world.
You don't need to be an Etisalat contract subscriber either — you need only a mobile phone number to register.
What else can you do with the app?
All sorts of things — it's like a number of separate apps rolled into one.
There's a trending news bar, which is handy for those keen to keep abreast of what's going on. It displays UAE news for users in the UAE and abroad, while there is a "Things to do" section recommending activities and events going on in the UAE.
Go Services provides several convenient services, such as booking a PCR test at your home (starting from Dh149), booking home-cleaning services, and even men's and women's salon services to your home.
Moving services can also be booked through the app, while flights, hotels and shopping are "coming soon", the app says.
Etisalat Smiles vouchers and deals can also be accessed through the app.
There is an eWallet function that allows users to complete international and local money transfers.
Is there anything else similar in the UAE?
Du offers an internet calling pack, although this is subscription based and costs from Dh52.50 per month for unlimited voice and video calls and a data package is required.
Top investing tips for UAE residents in 2021
Build an emergency fund: Make sure you have enough cash to cover six months of expenses as a buffer against unexpected problems before you begin investing, advises Steve Cronin, the founder of DeadSimpleSaving.com.
Think long-term: When you invest, you need to have a long-term mindset, so don’t worry about momentary ups and downs in the stock market.
Invest worldwide: Diversify your investments globally, ideally by way of a global stock index fund.
Is your money tied up: Avoid anything where you cannot get your money back in full within a month at any time without any penalty.
Skip past the promises: “If an investment product is offering more than 10 per cent return per year, it is either extremely risky or a scam,” Mr Cronin says.
Choose plans with low fees: Make sure that any funds you buy do not charge more than 1 per cent in fees, Mr Cronin says. “If you invest by yourself, you can easily stay below this figure.” Managed funds and commissionable investments often come with higher fees.
Be sceptical about recommendations: If someone suggests an investment to you, ask if they stand to gain, advises Mr Cronin. “If they are receiving commission, they are unlikely to recommend an investment that’s best for you.”
Get financially independent: Mr Cronin advises UAE residents to pursue financial independence. Start with a Google search and improve your knowledge via expat investing websites or Facebook groups such as SimplyFI.
Dust and sand storms compared
Sand storm
- Particle size: Larger, heavier sand grains
- Visibility: Often dramatic with thick "walls" of sand
- Duration: Short-lived, typically localised
- Travel distance: Limited
- Source: Open desert areas with strong winds
Dust storm
- Particle size: Much finer, lightweight particles
- Visibility: Hazy skies but less intense
- Duration: Can linger for days
- Travel distance: Long-range, up to thousands of kilometres
- Source: Can be carried from distant regions
The specs: 2018 Volkswagen Teramont
Price, base / as tested Dh137,000 / Dh189,950
Engine 3.6-litre V6
Gearbox Eight-speed automatic
Power 280hp @ 6,200rpm
Torque 360Nm @ 2,750rpm
Fuel economy, combined 11.7L / 100km
MATCH INFO
Delhi Daredevils 174-4 (20 ovs)
Mumbai Indians 163 (19.3 ovs)
Delhi won the match by 11 runs
Timeline
2012-2015
The company offers payments/bribes to win key contracts in the Middle East
May 2017
The UK SFO officially opens investigation into Petrofac’s use of agents, corruption, and potential bribery to secure contracts
September 2021
Petrofac pleads guilty to seven counts of failing to prevent bribery under the UK Bribery Act
October 2021
Court fines Petrofac £77 million for bribery. Former executive receives a two-year suspended sentence
December 2024
Petrofac enters into comprehensive restructuring to strengthen the financial position of the group
May 2025
The High Court of England and Wales approves the company’s restructuring plan
July 2025
The Court of Appeal issues a judgment challenging parts of the restructuring plan
August 2025
Petrofac issues a business update to execute the restructuring and confirms it will appeal the Court of Appeal decision
October 2025
Petrofac loses a major TenneT offshore wind contract worth €13 billion. Holding company files for administration in the UK. Petrofac delisted from the London Stock Exchange
November 2025
180 Petrofac employees laid off in the UAE
The Bio
Favourite place in UAE: Al Rams pearling village
What one book should everyone read: Any book written before electricity was invented. When a writer willingly worked under candlelight, you know he/she had a real passion for their craft
Your favourite type of pearl: All of them. No pearl looks the same and each carries its own unique characteristics, like humans
Best time to swim in the sea: When there is enough light to see beneath the surface
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Not Dark Yet
Shelby Lynne and Allison Moorer
Four stars
Brief scoreline:
Burnley 3
Barnes 63', 70', Berg Gudmundsson 75'
Southampton 3
Man of the match
Ashley Barnes (Burnley)
