The cheapest way to talk to family in Afghanistan is an internet calling app. Calls between app users are free over Wi-Fi or mobile data, they work across borders, and video calls cost no more than voice. The one catch: the person in Afghanistan needs mobile data to answer. This guide compares the apps Afghan families use most and shows how to keep their phone connected.
The most popular apps for calling Afghanistan
| App | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday voice and video calls, voice notes | The most widely used app among Afghan families. Restricted for calls in some countries, such as the UAE. | |
| IMO | Calls on slower connections | Popular in Afghanistan because it copes well with weak signals and older phones. |
| Viber | Voice and video calls | Also offers paid calls to regular phone numbers if the other person has no internet. |
| Facebook Messenger | Families already on Facebook | Voice and video calls through a Facebook account. |
| Telegram | Calls plus channels and groups | Voice and video calls with low data use. |
Whichever you choose, both of you need the same app installed and an internet connection. Numbers are saved in the usual +93 format — see how to call Afghanistan.
How much data does a call use?
A voice call over an app uses relatively little data, so a modest data bundle covers many hours of talking. Video calls use several times more, so if your family video-calls often, choose a larger bundle. The exact amount depends on the app, the connection quality and the length of the call.
Make sure they can always answer
Most missed calls to Afghanistan happen because the phone has run out of data. You can fix that from anywhere:
- Send a data bundle. It gives far more megabytes for the money than airtime — see Afghanistan data bundles and the cheapest way to buy data bundles.
- Pick the right network's package: Roshan, AWCC or Etisalat data packages.
- Send airtime if they need to make ordinary calls too — see airtime vs data bundle.
A bundle activates on their number within seconds, and they don't need to do anything.
Calling from the UAE
WhatsApp voice and video calls are restricted in the UAE, so Afghans there often use other calling apps that work in the Emirates. The person in Afghanistan still needs data to answer — see sending a top-up from the UAE.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best free app to call Afghanistan?
WhatsApp is the most widely used, and IMO is popular for weaker connections. Both are free between app users; the person you call just needs internet data.
Why can't my family answer my WhatsApp call?
Usually because their phone has run out of mobile data or has a weak signal. Sending a data bundle to their number fixes the first problem instantly.
Does a video call use more data than a voice call?
Yes, several times more. If your family makes video calls regularly, send a larger data bundle.
Can I call an Afghan number that has no internet?
Yes — make a regular phone call, or use a paid calling feature in apps like Viber. The phone needs airtime credit to make calls back.
How do I send data to a phone in Afghanistan?
Enter their Afghan number online, choose a data bundle, and pay. It activates on their phone within seconds.
Keep your family connected
Send a data bundle or airtime to any Afghan number in about a minute, so every call gets through. For more ideas, read how to stay connected with family in Afghanistan.