Etisalat is the one operator in this guide that uses single-star codes (*21*444#) for voicemail rather than the double-star (**21*) scheme every other GCC operator here uses — dial the wrong version and the network simply rejects the request.
Quick answer
Dial *21*444# to activate voicemail, then dial 123 to set up your mailbox, choose a language, and record a greeting.
Bilingual greeting setup
When you first dial 123, the IVR lets you choose between English and Arabic before recording your greeting and setting a PIN — worth deciding upfront since re-recording later means going through the same menu again.
Conditional voicemail
Rather than sending every call straight to voicemail, set specific conditions instead:
- *61*123# — no answer
- *62*123# — phone off or unreachable
- *67*123# — line busy
Check Messages
Dial 123 anytime — you’ll also get an SMS notification when a new voicemail arrives.
Deactivating
Dial ##002# to cancel all forwarding, or #21# to cancel specifically the “forward all” voicemail setting.
Codes verified against e&’s official voicemail settings, August 2026.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Activate voicemail
Dial *21*444# to forward all calls to voicemail. Or *61*123# for "no answer" only.
- 2
Set up mailbox
Dial 123 to record your greeting and set your voicemail PIN.
- 3
Check messages
Dial 123 anytime. SMS notifications alert you to new voicemails.
Alternative Methods
Dial *21*444# from your phone dialer.
e& App > Services > Voicemail
Troubleshooting
Voicemail not activating
Try dialing *61*123# instead. If it persists, call 101 to have the service enabled on your account.
Callers say they can't leave a message
Ensure voicemail is active with *#21#. The mailbox may be full — dial 123 to delete old messages.
Look Up More USSD Codes
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Etisalat voicemail cost extra?
A small monthly subscription may apply; callers leaving messages pay standard rates. Call 101 for current pricing.
Why won't **21*444# work?
Etisalat uses single-star codes (*21*444#), not the double-star format other GCC operators use — check you dialed a single asterisk.
Can I change my greeting language later?
Yes, dial 123 and follow the IVR prompts to re-record in either English or Arabic.
Can I check voicemail from abroad?
Yes — dial +971 50 your-number while roaming; standard roaming charges apply.