As companies in Dubai embrace digital transformation, efficient communication systems have become essential. One popular solution gaining attention is Microsoft Teams Direct Routing. This feature allows businesses to connect Microsoft Teams to the public telephone network using their own telephony provider. It offers flexibility, cost savings, and better control over voice communications.
In this blog, we will explore what Direct Routing is, how it works, and why it matters for businesses in Dubai.
What is Microsoft Teams Direct Routing?
Microsoft Teams Direct Routing is a method that allows organizations to use Microsoft Teams as a full-featured business phone system. Instead of relying on Microsoft’s Calling Plans, companies can connect Teams to their own Session Border Controller (SBC) and SIP trunk from a local or global telecom provider.
Key Components of Direct Routing
There are a few important elements involved in setting up Direct Routing:
Microsoft Teams: The platform where users make and receive calls.
Session Border Controller (SBC): A device or software that acts as a bridge between Teams and the telephone network.
SIP Trunk: A virtual connection to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), allowing voice calls.
How It Works
When Direct Routing is configured, outgoing and incoming calls pass through the SBC and SIP trunk. This setup lets companies manage their telephony systems while still using the familiar Teams interface for communication.
Benefits of Direct Routing for Dubai-Based Companies
Direct Routing offers several advantages, especially for organizations in Dubai that seek customized and cost-effective solutions.
Cost Efficiency
Direct Routing can reduce telecom expenses. Instead of paying per-user fees for Microsoft Calling Plans, businesses can negotiate better rates with local telecom providers. This is especially beneficial for companies with many employees or high call volumes.
Flexibility and Control
Companies in Dubai can choose their own telecom carrier. This means they can tailor calling plans, manage international calls, and select a provider with better local support. Direct Routing also enables organizations to retain existing phone numbers and integrate legacy PBX systems if needed.
Improved Call Quality
Using a certified SBC optimized for the UAE telecom environment can improve voice quality. Local routing reduces latency and ensures a smoother experience for users in Dubai and nearby regions.
Considerations Before Implementing Direct Routing
Before moving forward with Direct Routing, there are a few factors businesses should evaluate.
Compatibility
Ensure that your current telecom provider supports SIP trunking and can integrate with Microsoft Teams. You’ll also need to choose an SBC that meets Microsoft’s certification standards.
Infrastructure Requirements
Your IT team must assess your current infrastructure. Is it ready for integration? Do you need a cloud-based SBC or on-premises setup? These choices impact your implementation process and ongoing support needs.
Compliance and Regulations
In Dubai, businesses must ensure they follow local telecom regulations. It’s important to choose providers familiar with UAE laws and guidelines to avoid disruptions or legal issues.
Setting Up Microsoft Teams Direct Routing in Dubai
Setting up Direct Routing involves several technical steps. While many companies work with IT consultants or managed service providers, having a general understanding of the process helps in decision-making.
Step 1: Choose a SIP Trunk Provider
Select a provider that offers SIP trunking in Dubai or the broader UAE region. Ensure they offer reliable support, competitive rates, and regulatory compliance.
Step 2: Select and Configure the SBC
Choose a certified Session Border Controller that fits your environment. It can be physical hardware or a cloud-based virtual appliance. The SBC must be configured to connect to both Microsoft Teams and your chosen SIP provider.
Step 3: Connect SBC to Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams uses Direct Routing via Microsoft 365 Phone System. Admins will need to configure voice routing, dial plans, and policies through the Teams Admin Center or PowerShell.
Step 4: Test and Deploy
After configuration, thorough testing ensures that users can make and receive calls without issues. Test local and international numbers, voicemail, and call forwarding features.
Microsoft Teams Direct Routing vs. Calling Plans
Businesses in Dubai often compare Direct Routing with Microsoft Calling Plans to choose the right solution. Here’s how they differ.
Calling Plans
Microsoft’s own Calling Plans are easy to deploy and manage. However, they can be expensive in regions like Dubai and may not offer the same flexibility as Direct Routing.
Direct Routing
Direct Routing allows businesses to use a provider of their choice. It often results in lower costs and better customization. However, it requires more technical setup and ongoing management.
Which One is Right for You?
For small businesses with simple needs, Calling Plans might be sufficient. Larger organizations or those with complex telephony requirements may benefit more from Direct Routing.
Use Cases for Direct Routing in Dubai
Different industries in Dubai can take advantage of Direct Routing based on their specific communication needs.
Healthcare Sector
Hospitals and clinics can integrate Teams with existing phone systems to streamline patient communication and internal coordination.
Real Estate Agencies
Agents can manage customer calls on the go using Teams' mobile app while maintaining professionalism and consistent communication.
Corporate Offices
Large companies can centralize their phone systems, reduce costs, and maintain high-quality communication across departments and branches.
Future of Telephony with Microsoft Teams
As hybrid work continues to grow in Dubai, Direct Routing plays a key role in enabling flexible communication systems. It supports remote work, improves collaboration, and helps businesses stay competitive in a connected world.
By investing in the right setup today, companies can ensure that their communication systems remain scalable and future-ready.
