How to Cancel Call Forwarding Etisalat: Quick Guide
To cancel call forwarding on your Etisalat number in Dubai, simply dial ##002# on your phone’s keypad and press the call button. This universal deactivation code will instantly disable all active call forwarding services, ensuring you receive calls directly to your device without interruption.
In This Article
- 1 Why You Might Need to Cancel Etisalat Call Forwarding
- 2 Understanding Call Forwarding Codes: The Etisalat Approach
- 3 How to Cancel Call Forwarding Etisalat: The Simplest Method
- 4 Alternative Methods for Managing Call Forwarding
- 5 Understanding Different Call Forwarding Scenarios and Their Codes
- 6 Troubleshooting Common Issues When Cancelling Call Forwarding
- 7 Pro Tips for Managing Etisalat Call Forwarding
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Key Takeaways
Directly Deactivate: Use the ##002# code for immediate cancellation.
Effortless Process: No app or account login needed for this method.
Universal Code: Works across most Etisalat plans and phone types.
Restore Direct Calls: Ensure all incoming calls reach your phone.
Quick and Simple: A few taps are all it takes.
Call forwarding can be a lifesaver when you’re busy or unavailable. But what happens when you no longer need it, and calls aren’t reaching you as expected? For Etisalat users in the UAE, understanding how to cancel call forwarding is essential for seamless communication. It might seem like a technical task, but Etisalat makes it quite straightforward. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to disable call forwarding on your Etisalat mobile, ensuring you stay connected. Let’s demystify this common mobile feature together and get your calls flowing directly to you again.
Why You Might Need to Cancel Etisalat Call Forwarding
In the bustling metropolis of Dubai, staying connected is paramount. Etisalat, a leading telecommunications provider in the UAE, offers various services to enhance your mobile experience, including call forwarding. This feature allows you to redirect incoming calls to another number when you’re busy, in a meeting, or simply unavailable. However, there are several common scenarios where you might need to disable this service:
Returning to Normal: You’ve finished your meeting or are now available and want your calls to come directly to your primary number.
Incorrect Forwarding: You might have accidentally activated call forwarding or set it up incorrectly, leading to missed calls.
Troubleshooting: If you’re experiencing issues with call reception, disabling call forwarding is often a first troubleshooting step.
Switching Devices: When you get a new phone or SIM card, you might want to ensure all calls are directed to your active line.
Managing Multiple Lines: If you use call forwarding to manage business and personal lines, you might need to toggle it on and off based on your availability.
Avoiding Charges: In some cases, forwarding calls to international numbers might incur extra charges, and disabling it can help manage costs.
Understanding how to reverse this setting is as crucial as knowing how to set it up. It ensures you have full control over your communication flow.
Understanding Call Forwarding Codes: The Etisalat Approach
Etisalat, like most mobile networks, uses a system of USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) codes to manage services like call forwarding. These codes are standardized globally, making them relatively easy to use. USSD codes are sequences of characters (numbers and symbols) that you dial on your phone’s keypad. When you press the call button after entering a USSD code, your phone sends a request to the network operator, which then executes the command.
For call forwarding, there are different types:
Unconditional Forwarding: All calls are sent to another number.
Forward When Busy: Calls are forwarded only when your line is busy.
Forward When Unanswered: Calls are forwarded if you don’t answer after a set number of rings.
Forward When Unreachable: Calls are forwarded if your phone is switched off or out of network coverage.
Each of these can be activated and deactivated using specific codes. While activating might involve entering a number, the beauty of deactivation is often its simplicity, usually involving a universal code that cancels all previously set forwarding rules.
How to Cancel Call Forwarding Etisalat: The Simplest Method
For Etisalat subscribers in the UAE, the most straightforward and widely recommended method to cancel all active call forwarding services is by using a single, powerful USSD code. This code is designed to universally deactivate any call forwarding you may have set up, regardless of the specific condition (busy, unanswered, unreachable, or unconditional).
To cancel all call forwarding on your Etisalat number:
1. Open your phone’s dialer: This is the app you use to make phone calls.
2. Key in the code: Dial `##002#`.
3. Press the call button: Tap the green call icon as if you were making a regular phone call.
Upon pressing call, your phone will send this command to the Etisalat network. You should receive a confirmation message on your screen shortly after, indicating that call forwarding has been disabled. This message typically reads something like “Call forwarding erasure was successful” or a similar confirmation.
This method is incredibly efficient because it targets all categories of call forwarding simultaneously. You don’t need to remember or enter different codes for each type of forwarding rule. It’s your express ticket to ensuring all calls reach your primary line directly.
Alternative Methods for Managing Call Forwarding
While the `##002#` code is the quickest way to cancel all call forwarding, Etisalat also offers other options for managing these settings. These methods are useful if you want more granular control or prefer managing services through menus.
1. Using Phone Settings (Android and iOS)
Most smartphones allow you to manage call forwarding directly through their native phone or call settings. This method is more visual and can be easier for those who prefer not to memorize codes.
For Android Devices:
1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the three dots (menu icon) in the top right corner.
3. Select Settings or Call Settings.
4. Look for Call Forwarding or Supplementary Services.
5. You will see options for different forwarding conditions (Always forward, When busy, When unanswered, When unreachable).
6. Tap on the condition you want to modify.
7. Select Disable or Turn Off. You might need to enter your password if prompted, though this is less common for disabling.
8. Tap Update or Save.
For iOS (iPhone) Devices:
1. Go to Settings.
2. Scroll down and tap on Phone.
3. Tap on Call Forwarding.
4. Ensure the Call Forwarding toggle is OFF. If it’s on, tap it to turn it off.
5. If you need to manage specific conditions (which is less common on iOS for direct disabling), you might need to use USSD codes via the dialer.
Pro Tip: If you don’t see the Call Forwarding option directly in your phone’s settings, it might be managed by the network. In such cases, using the USSD codes is the most reliable approach for Etisalat.
2. Contacting Etisalat Customer Service
If you’re having trouble with USSD codes or phone settings, Etisalat’s customer service is always there to assist. They can remotely manage your services and guide you through the process.
Dial 101: From your Etisalat mobile number.
Dial +971 800 101: From any other number or internationally.
Customer service agents can confirm if call forwarding is active on your line and disable it for you. Be prepared to provide some personal information to verify your identity.
Understanding Different Call Forwarding Scenarios and Their Codes
While `##002#` cancels everything, sometimes you might want to disable a specific type of forwarding. Etisalat generally uses standard GSM codes for these. Note that these might require you to re-enter the number you previously forwarded to, or prompt you to set a new one if you later decide to re-enable it.
Here’s a quick look at common codes. It’s always best to confirm directly with Etisalat if you plan to use these for specific deactivation.
| Call Forwarding Type | Activation Code (Example) | Deactivation Code (Specific) | Status Check Code |
| :————————– | :———————— | :————————— | :—————- |
| Unconditional | `21#` | `#21#` | `#21#` |
| When Busy | `61#` | `#61#` | `#61#` |
| When Unanswered | `62#` | `#62#` | `#62#` |
| When Unreachable | `67#` | `#67#` | `#67#` |
Note: “ represents the phone number you wish to forward calls to.
How to Interpret the Specific Deactivation Codes:
`#21#`: This code is used to cancel or deactivate Unconditional Call Forwarding.
`#61#`: This code cancels Conditional Call Forwarding when your line is busy.
`#62#`: This code cancels Conditional Call Forwarding when you are unreachable (phone off or no signal).
`#67#`: This code cancels Conditional Call Forwarding when you do not answer the call.
While using these specific codes is possible, the `##002#` code is generally preferred for its simplicity in canceling all forwarding at once. If you are experiencing issues or are unsure, stick to `##002#` for a guaranteed reset.
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Cancelling Call Forwarding
Even with simple codes, you might encounter a hiccup. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:
“Command Unsuccessful” or “Invalid MMI Code”:
Cause: You might have mistyped the code. Double-check that you entered `##002#` exactly, including the `#` symbol. Ensure there are no extra spaces or characters.
Solution: Re-enter the code carefully. If the problem persists, try restarting your phone and then entering the code again. Sometimes, a network glitch can be resolved by a simple reboot.
Confirmation Message Not Appearing:
Cause: Network congestion or a temporary delay in the system.
Solution: Wait a few minutes and check if your calls are now coming directly to your phone. You can test this by asking someone to call you. If the confirmation message still doesn’t appear after an hour, try the code again or contact Etisalat customer service.
Calls Still Being Forwarded After Using the Code:
Cause: The code may not have been processed correctly, or there might be another setting overriding it. It’s also possible that call forwarding is configured at a network level that your handset code can’t access directly.
Solution: Try dialing the code again. As a last resort, use the phone’s settings menu on your smartphone (if available) to turn off call forwarding, or contact Etisalat customer support for assistance. They can confirm the service status on your line.
Confused About Which Type of Forwarding is Active:
Cause: You may have set up different types of forwarding at different times and forgotten.
Solution: The `##002#` code is designed to cancel all types, so this is the best option to ensure everything is reset. If you need to know your current status, you can try the status check codes (`#21#`, `#61#`, etc.), though `##002#` is the most powerful deactivation tool.
Remember, Etisalat’s customer service is a valuable resource. If you continuously face issues, reaching out to them is the most reliable way to get your service back on track.
Pro Tips for Managing Etisalat Call Forwarding
Save the Code: Save `##002#` in your phone’s contacts under a name like “Cancel Etisalat Forwarding” for quick access.
Test After Cancelling: Immediately after using the code, have a friend call your number to confirm that calls are no longer being forwarded.
Check Phone Settings Too: If you suspect call forwarding is still active after using the USSD code, check your phone’s native call settings. Sometimes, the phone’s internal setting might conflict with network commands.
Note Down Forwarding Numbers: If you ever activate call forwarding for specific reasons, jot down the number you’re forwarding to and the activation code. This makes it easier to reverse the setting.
Regularly Review Settings: Especially if you travel or use multiple SIM cards, it’s a good practice to periodically check your call forwarding settings to ensure they are as you intend.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I know if call forwarding is active on my Etisalat number?
A1: Often, your phone will display an icon (like a small phone with an arrow) indicating call forwarding is active. You can also try checking your phone’s call settings or using status check codes like `*#21#` for unconditional forwarding. The best way is often to simply try the cancellation code `##002#` – if it was indeed active, it will be deactivated.
Q2: Will cancelling call forwarding affect my internet or SMS services with Etisalat?
A2: No, cancelling call forwarding only affects how your incoming voice calls are handled. It will not impact your data services (internet) or your ability to send and receive SMS messages. These services operate independently.
Q3: Can I cancel call forwarding if I am roaming outside the UAE?
A3: Yes, USSD codes like `##002#` generally work internationally as they communicate directly with the Etisalat network. However, roaming charges may apply for the USSD session itself, depending on your roaming plan. It’s always a good idea to check with Etisalat’s international roaming support before relying on USSD codes abroad.
Q4: Is there a charge for cancelling call forwarding on Etisalat?
A4: Typically, there is no charge from Etisalat for using the USSD code `##002#` to cancel call forwarding. This is considered a standard service management function. However, if you contact customer service and they perform the action for you, there might be a consultation fee in some rare cases, but for basic deactivation, it’s usually free.
Q5: My phone is an old model. Can I still cancel call forwarding using the code?
A5: Yes, the `##002#` code is a universal GSM standard. As long as your phone can make and receive standard phone calls, it should be able to process this USSD code. You don’t need a smartphone for this specific function.
Q6: What if I want to cancel only one type of call forwarding, not all of them?
A6: If you want to cancel only a specific type (e.g., only when busy), you can use the specific deactivation codes like `#61#`. However, for most users who simply want to ensure all calls come directly to them, `##002#` is the easiest and most comprehensive solution as it removes all forwarding rules.
Q7: How long does it take for the cancellation to take effect?
A7: The cancellation usually takes effect immediately after you press the call button and receive the confirmation message. You should be able to receive direct calls within seconds.
In conclusion, managing your Etisalat call forwarding is a simple process, especially when you know the right codes. The universal deactivation code `##002#` offers a quick and effective way to ensure all your calls reach you directly. Whether you’re an expat navigating the city, a business professional managing your communications, or just someone who wants to ensure they never miss an important call, mastering this basic function empowers you. Dubai’s advanced telecommunications infrastructure, supported by providers like Etisalat, ensures that staying connected is effortless. By following these steps, you can confidently manage your call forwarding settings and maintain seamless communication in the vibrant landscape of the UAE.
