Struggling to find a VPN that works in the UAE? It's no surprise, seeing as the government is working with ISPs to block as many as they can. In this guide, we've recommended reliable UAE services that are quick, secure, and easy to use – though there are some caveats.
What are the best VPNs to use in UAE?
In a rush? No problem! Take a look at the table below for a snapshot of the services we'd recommend for the UAE in 2022. Then, keep scrolling for our in-depth discussions of each.
- ExpressVPN - The best VPN for the UAE. Works for Etisalat customers, packs superb encryption, and even a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- NordVPN - The best value VPN for the UAE. A zero-logs policy and suite of security features ensure you go undetected online in the UAE.
- Surfshark - The best well-rounded VPN for the UAE. A no-go for Etisalat, but offers a huge server network and leak protection.
- PrivateVPN - The best cheap VPN for the UAE. With stealth technology, a kill-switch, and user-friendly apps for all of your devices.
- VyprVPN - The best stealth VPN for the UAE. Strong on privacy, thanks to its Chameleon protocol, and superb encryption.
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Etisalat customers – Please be aware
For the past year, we have received multiple reports regarding the problems that Etisalat customers are experiencing with VPNs. We are working closely with VPN providers to get up-to-date information and to ensure that we only recommend services that will work in the UAE. Click here for updates.
The UAE government is actively blocking VPNs in order to prevent people from using free VoIP services to make calls. The government controls the local telecoms infrastructure in the country and, as you can imagine, would prefer that citizens pay for traditional phone calls.
Etisalat, the UAE's primary Internet Service Provider (ISP) is currently using advanced methods to block VPNs. As a result, citizens can't make VoIP calls, and very few VPNs actually work for Etisalat customers. Another UAE ISP, DU, is also attempting to block VPN usage but has so far been less successful.
Due to the ongoing circumstances in the UAE, it is essential that internet users choose their VPN carefully. The services in this guide are doing everything they can to provide VPN services to their UAE customers, which is why these are by far the best options available.
To help you out, we've taken a close look at each VPN provider. Our detailed summaries dig into which VPN works with which ISP – so be sure to comb through each service carefully to ensure you pick a VPN that suits your circumstances.
Before we recommend any VPN for use in the UAE, we invite UAE residents to test each one to ensure they still work reliably. We also run tests to check for the following vital features:
- Strong and well-implemented encryption
- A zero-logging policy
- Servers in key locations
- DNS leak protection
- Useful features like obfuscation
Only VPNs with the security tools, logging policy, and value-for-money mentioned above earn a top spot in our guide. So, let's take a closer look at the VPNs that made the cut!
Please note: If you are an Etisalat customer, click here.
| TEST WINNER ExpressVPN | NordVPN | Surfshark | PrivateVPN | VyprVPN | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Website | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | Surfshark | PrivateVPN | VyprVPN |
| Ranking for UAE | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
| Performance | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 7 |
| Reliability | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
| Free trial | Available | Available | Available | Available | Not available |
| Total servers | 3000 | 6200 | 3200 | 200 | 700 |
| Payment | PayPal Visa/MasterCard Amex Cryptocurrency | PayPal Visa/MasterCard Amex Cryptocurrency | PayPal Visa/MasterCard Amex Cryptocurrency | PayPal Visa/MasterCard Amex Cryptocurrency | PayPal Visa/MasterCard Amex Cryptocurrency |
| Unblocks: | Netflix iPlayer Disney+ Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix iPlayer Disney+ Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix iPlayer Disney+ Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix iPlayer Disney+ Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix iPlayer Amazon Prime Hulu |
| Supported platforms | Windows macOS iOS Android | Windows macOS iOS Android | Windows macOS iOS Android | Windows macOS iOS Android | Windows macOS iOS Android |
The Best VPNs for the UAE in 2022
The services listed below are our top picks for UAE VPNs in 2022. They're quick, with servers dotted across the Middle East and beyond, and come packed with the security tools you need to ensure your browsing sessions stay private. Plus, all of our VPN recommendations are incredibly easy to use and have apps for just about any device you can imagine!
For even more information about any of the providers featured below, head on over to our detailed review pages.
ExpressVPN is the best UAE VPN. Balances top-notch security with a huge (and speedy) server network. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. ExpressVPN Demo ExpressVPN sails to the top of our list thanks to a full toolkit of features ideal for gaining privacy in the UAE. The service itself is based in the British Virgin Islands and abides by a no-logs policy – meaning that there's nothing to hand over to any authorities that come knocking. In addition to this robust security, ExpressVPN also works for most Etisalat customers at the time of writing. We definitely recommend trying ExpressVPN for yourself. The 30-day money-back guarantee not only gives you plenty of time to trial the service on your own device, but allows you to claim back your money within a month if you're not impressed. However, we think you will be. ExpressVPN's security ticks every box; the service employs AES 256-bit encryption and a variety of protocols, for a start, and users can also check out the provider's own proprietary protocol if they're looking for something more lightweight than OpenVPN. Lightway was created from the ground up by the ExpressVPN team and is remarkably fast, with particularly impressive connection speeds, and doesn't compromise when it comes to security. I'm also happy to confirm that ExpressVPN has its very own kill-switch (known as Network Lock) that prevents your real IP address from leaking if the VPN connection drops. ExpressVPN also runs its own encrypted DNS on each server, which is more good news, seeing as it'll keep any snoopers (including your ISP and government) from pawing through your DNS requests. ExpressVPN is a titan of the VPN industry and can access just about any streaming service you can think of. Whether you want to browse through Netflix's various international libraries, catch live sports on ESPN, or access content from back home when you're abroad, the provider has your back. Folks in the UAE should also note that ExpressVPN can seamlessly unblock Skype, IMO, and other VoIP apps. Whenever I use ExpressVPN, I'm surprised by just how fast the service is (and it consistently ranks well in our daily speed tests). I didn't run into any lag or buffering issues when putting the service to the test, and connecting to any of the servers, scattered across 94 countries, was also easy. Most people have a selection of internet-enabled devices in the home, and the good news is that with ExpressVPN, you'll be able to secure them all. There are slick ExpressVPN apps for all platforms, and anything you can't directly install the VPN on can be covered by hooking up your router to the service instead. Customers get five simultaneous connections to use as they see fit, too. All the ExpressVPN apps are jam-packed with features; an automatically enabled kill-switch, DNS leak protection, a browser extension that prevents WebRTC leaks, and obfuscation to ensure you can use the VPN without your ISP detecting VPN use. NordVPN is the best value UAE VPN. It's secure, fast and is known to unblock content for most ISPs, and has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Nord Demo NordVPN is a premium-feeling provider that won't cost the earth – just one of the many reasons that it's become something of a household name. Those in the UAE should check out the NordLynx protocol, built around WireGuard, which provides the obfuscation necessary to bypass VPN blocks in the country and establish a successful connection on either DU or Etisalat. As you'd expect, NordVPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee that'll let you take the service for a test drive, and you'll even be able to pay for your subscription with cryptocurrency, if you prefer a little extra anonymity. NordVPN is not interested in your connection timestamps, bandwidth or traffic data, or other identifiable information – which is exactly what we like to hear from a VPN. The provider easily qualifies as a no-logs service, and has even invited independent auditing services to comb through the claim for themselves. Furthermore, NordVPN is based in Panama, which takes it beyond the reach of EU and US jurisdictions. AES 256-bit encryption will keep your browsing sessions secure, and an automatic kill-switch is a nice (and, frankly, necessary) extra feature – so there's no need to worry about what'll happen if your VPN connection unexpectedly drops. Plus, you can actually customize whether the kill-switch affects your internet as a whole or just specific, nominated applications. There are few VPNs that can keep up with NordVPN when it comes to unblocking geo-restricted content. Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime – NordVPN can tackle them all, and open up a world of content without pesky blocks and barriers. NordVPN does come with its very own SmartDNS service, too, but it's important to note that the service does not encrypt your traffic the same way a regular VPN does, so some user discretion is advised. The process of connecting to a NordVPN server is effortlessly simple, and it's quite apparent that the VPN's interface has been designed with the end experience in mind. Use the map to select any of NordVPN's 5,200 servers in more than 60 countries, and enjoy blazing speeds that are ideal for streaming, torrenting, gaming, and VoIP calls. You're getting a lot of bang for your buck when you buy a NordVPN subscription. The VPN is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS and Android devices, as well as Linux OS, and there are even proxy extensions for Chrome and Firefox. Six simultaneous connections should also be enough to cover all of your most important gadgets. In addition to superb encryption and unblocking power, NordVPN customers will be able to play with DoubleVPN (which encrypts your traffic twice), a CyberSec ad-blocker, and split tunneling – all handy features that folks in the UAE could benefit from. In addition, I'd also recommend making good use of the multi-factor authentication provided by NordVPN! Surfshark is the best well-rounded UAE VPN. Quick with stylish apps and unlimited simultaneous connections, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark Demo Surfshark is a VPN that is considered an excellent option for users in the UAE. However, you'll need to bear in mind that it will currently only work for customers with a DU subscription. Admittedly, this is slightly frustrating for consumers who are with Etisalat, but the fact remains that it is one of the few VPNs that will actually work for (some) UAE consumers. If you're uncertain whether Surfshark is the right fit for you, you can test it out without risking your money, thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee. Android, iOS and Mac users actually have access to a 7-day free trial, too! Just remember to cancel the trial before your time is up to avoid a charge. Surfshark provides all the most important VPN features we think are necessary for users in the UAE, like a manually-enabled kill-switch, DNS leak protection, and obfuscation to ensure that you can use the VPN without being discovered. OpenVPN encryption is also ideal for keeping your data secure. If you're looking for an alternative to OpenVPN, you might consider the Shadowsocks proxy. Originally designed to breach the Great Firewall of China, it's particularly useful to anyone looking to combat imposing geo-restrictions and censorship. I'm also pleased to see that Surfshark enforces a no-logs policy, which has been audited by Cure53, an independent team. Being based in the British Virgin Islands, beyond the reach of the EU and US jurisdictions, is another plus. Surfshark is seriously speedy, and the ideal choice for Netflix fanatics or gamers. Your streams will be HD, your VoIP calls crisp; plus, all Surfshark servers are RAM-only, meaning they're fully wiped each time they're turned off. Take your pick of more than 3,200 servers in 65 countries and readily access streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and Hulu, to name a few. If you'd like to browse through geo-restricted content whilst also accessing local apps or sites, you can do so with Surfshark's split tunneling feature. The build-in ad-blocker will also banish any annoying ads, trackers, and malware threats that tend to lurk on streaming sites. In my personal experience, all of Surfshark's apps are incredibly easy to use. The Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac apps look great and perform well, and made for a smooth VPN experience that I'd easily recommend to veterans and newbies alike. Plus, regardless of whether I used Surfshark at home or when connected to public Wi-Fi, connection speeds were quick. Of course, one of Surfshark's main bragging points is the fact that it allows unlimited simultaneous connections! This is perfect for protecting your family and/or friend's devices and keeping them connected to a free web, where they can access social media or international news sites in a few clicks. PrivateVPN is the best cheap UAE VPN. Great for beginners who need comprehensive digital security, as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee. PrivateVPN Demo PrivateVPN is a remarkably reliable provider that's perfect for anyone on a budget. I like that one inexpensive subscription comes with well-implemented OpenVPN encryption and a no-logs policy, and it's also great to have the option to connect via TCP over port 443 for extra obfuscation (cloaking). This makes keeps your data ultra-secure, and ensures that your ISP won't know that you're using a VPN, seeing as your traffic will appear to be regular HTTPS. One thing to bear in mind is that PrivateVPN is not currently compatible with Etisalat, which means you'll need a DU subscription in order to use the service. I used PrivateVPN to access Netflix US as well as BBC iPlayer and had no trouble at all. I could stream in HD and browse through content libraries with ease. Plus, PrivateVPN is more than capable of unblocking VoIP services like Skype and Zoom, so you can stay connected to loved ones around the world. PrivateVPN has more than 200 servers in 63 countries – other VPNs have more servers in more places, of course, but PrivateVPN is still a young service. All PrivateVPN servers are incredibly quick and well-suited to streaming, gaming, and video calls. There are no bandwidth caps to worry about, either, so engaging in P2P activity is a breeze – and there are even servers dedicated to the task! PrivateVPN well and truly lives up to its name, packing strong AES 256-bit encryption alongside a selection of protocols. I'd recommend sticking with OpenVPN if privacy is your main concern, however, and avoiding PPTP altogether. The service is a great pick for the UAE considering that it also boasts stealth servers ideal for anyone living in a country with regressive internet censorship laws. I particularly like that the PrivateVPN kill-switch can be customized to cut your internet entirely or just kill specific applications, and that it works perfectly in tandem with the provider's auto-connect feature. This means that if you run into a VPN outage, you'll be back online as soon as possible, as smoothly as possible. Seeing that PrivateVPN is based in Sweden is slightly less encouraging. The country does have data retention laws, but the service offsets them by enforcing a no-logs policy, and offering IPv6 and DNS leak protection. If you're new to the world of VPNs, you'll be glad to hear that PrivateVPN's customer service team is available via live chat and email, and contactable 24/7. The team itself is made up of in-house developers, and when I spoke to them, they were quick to respond and extremely helpful, which isn't something that all VPN support teams can boast! PrivateVPN is compatible with Mac, Windows, iOS, and Linux, and customers get six simultaneous connections – which is the industry standard. You can test the service yourself with a 30-day money-back guarantee, or, if you really don't want to pay a penny, check out the 7-day free trial, instead! VyprVPN is the best stealth UAE VPN. With tough encryption, obfuscation tools, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. VYPR Demo VyprVPN is an excellent companion VPN to have when you're traveling, whether it's for work or a vacation, as you'll be secured whenever you join an unsecure Wi-Fi hotspot. Even if you're at home, VyprVPN's impressive suite of security tools is well worth testing for yourself – and you can do so, risk free, with a 30-day money-back guarantee. For users in the UAE, the proprietary Chameleon protocol will come in particularly handy. Chameleon scrambles metadata in order to prevent deep packet inspection (DPI) and existing VPN bans, meaning that people in even the most restrictive countries can access the web, freely. VyprVPN takes a serious stance when it comes to security. The firm has undergone an independent audit, and its no-logs policy confirms that user IP addresses, browsing histories, and communications are never logged. Furthermore, because VyprVPN makes its home in Switzerland, there are no native data retention laws to worry about! The service relies on AES 256-bit encryption alongside DNS protection to ensure that no snoopers can rifle through your traffic, and users can take their pick from a number of popular VPN protocols. OpenVPN is a great all-round and WireGuard is a new, up-and-coming alternative, and Chameleon is the best choice for anyone battling VPN bans or censorship in their country. A NAT firewall and customizable kill-switch (that can run at the application or system level, and even block LAN traffic) are perfect cherries on top. With more than 700 servers across 70 locations, you'll be hard-pressed to find a corner of the globe that you can't geo-hop to. It's especially impressive to learn that VyprVPN owns all of its server hardware, reducing the risk of third-party interference. And the fact that these servers are quick, have no bandwidth caps, and can defeat ISP throttling makes VyprVPN a stand-out choice for streamers around the world. Access Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu with ease, and if you'd rather do a bit of torrenting, you can! VyprVPN treats all traffic equally. One of my favorite things about VyprVPN is how simple it is to use. The apps download in a blink and look great, and they're compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices. You'll also be able to install VyprVPN on compatible routers. VyprVPN offers up to five simultaneous connections, which is ideal if you have a few gadgets you'd like to hook up to an open web, and support available around the clock via live chat and email. 1. ExpressVPN
Pricing
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Security focused service
Easy streaming
Extras galore
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Enhance your privacy
Unlock the internet
Real value for money
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Full-package privacy
A world of content
Outstanding apps
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Content from across the globe
Stay secure
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5. VyprVPN
www.vyprvpn.com
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For veterans and newcomers
Using a VPN if you're an Etisalat Customer
We are closely monitoring the situation on the ground in the UAE. The ProPrivacy team works alongside individuals on location, performing tests, to discover which VPNs are still working – and which have been blocked. This way, we can accurately report on which providers are still a valid option for Etisalat customers.
Following our tests in 2022, we're confident that NordVPN is the best option for Etisalat subscribers across the UAE.
NordVPN is always able to help Etisalat customers connect to a server, even if they initially have trouble. Best of all, NordVPN now offers its very own implementation of the WireGuard protocol – NordLynx.
NordLynx is a super-fast protocol that's impressed us time and again. It even provides built-in obfuscation, so your VPN usage will go completely unnoticed and unblocked by ISPs in the UAE.
NordVPN is a VPN provider recognized across the industry for providing a secure service and excellent unblocking capabilities. The service is based in Panama, it has secure apps for all platforms, and it provides a choice of encryption protocols.
This includes NordLynx and IKEv2 – both of which are used by Etisalat customers to get around the ISP-enforced VPN blocks.
NordVPN also comes with a kill-switch and obfuscation to conceal VPN usage and enable users to perform torrenting and other sensitive online tasks without fear of being tracked. And, if you subscribe, you'll get access to a worldwide network of servers.
Check out our full NordVPN review for more information.
Why do UAE ISPs block VPNs?
ISPs in the UAE are under huge amounts of pressure to block VPNs. This is because the government does not want people to bypass the restrictions it has put in place.
Because of these blocks, VPN providers must actively stay one step ahead of the government by giving their users a way to access their service. The situation is complex and constantly evolving, and VPN providers are working hard to find new ways to bypass these frustrating restrictions.
The good news is that all of our VPN recommendations come with a money-back guarantee. This means that you can test the services in your own time, without risking your money, to see how well they perform for you.
If you notice that a VPN has stopped working in the UAE, we recommend getting in touch with your provider to see if they can help. If a VPN isn't working, and its customer support team can't solve your problem, simply ask for a full refund – and let us know. We always listen to our readers when they're experiencing difficulties, and it helps us to keep this page up-to-date!
Mobile users
We recommend switching to Du if you're a mobile user and want to use a VPN. Du doesn't try to block VPNs nearly as much (or as fiercely) as Etisalat. The same is true if you're a residential broadband subscriber and Du is available to you. Switching to Du is a great way to increase the number of VPNs available to you.
However, if you're limited to Etisalat, you can try NordVPN with their money-back guarantee, or opt for a smaller, lesser-known VPN provider that is more likely to fly under the radar.
What is the fastest VPN for the UAE?
Most people in the UAE want a VPN to use VoIP apps to make free calls to their friends and family or business colleagues. However, a fast VPN is essential if you're going to be hopping into video calls.
Unfortunately, most of the VPNs on the market today have slow servers that aren't suitable for streaming HD videos, downloading torrents, or making VoIP calls.
That's why we've pinpointed VPN providers that work seamlessly with services like Zoom and Skype in this guide. Our top picks have large networks of servers across the globe, too, so you can gain access to all sorts of international content whilst maintaining superb internet speeds.
All of the VPNs in this guide have a reputation for speed and efficiency. We know this because we test them ourselves! Our regular speed tests give us up-to-date insight into which services are performing the best – and you can check out the latest results in the table below:
| ExpressVPN | NordVPN | PrivateVPN | |
|---|---|---|---|
| ProPrivacy.com SpeedTest (average) | 100 | 85.9 | 55.5 |
| Performance | 10 | 9 | 7 |
| Reliability | 9 | 8 | 7 |
| Speed | 100 | 568.0 | 663 |
For information about how we test VPN speeds, check out our speed methodology.
The advantages of using a VPN in the UAE?
The UAE government enforces strict online censorship for religious and cultural purposes. Access to VoIP apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Zoom is also restricted because the government controls the telecoms industry and wants to prevent people from making free calls.
With a VPN, however, you can unblock any websites blocked in the UAE, including VoIP apps. A VPN encrypts your data so that what you do online cannot be tracked by the government, a local network admin, or ISP. You'll have unprecedented online privacy, and the authorities won't be able to track what you get up to online.
This makes a VPN the only safe way to bypass censorship and blocks imposed by the government. Accessing restricted content without a VPN is too risky because UAE ISPs work closely with the government.
In addition to letting you bypass censorship, a VPN can let you get around international geo-restrictions. For example, if you use a VPN for iPlayer you can stream BBC content in the UAE or you could stream more content on Netflix US, unblock regionally restricted YouTube videos, and much more.
Top tip: Visiting the UAE
Visiting a VPN website may be enough to arouse suspicion because it reveals to your ISP (and the government) that you are intending to conceal your online habits. This could lead to the assumption that you are planning to access censored content to engage in VoIP calls. For this reason, we recommend that if you intend on traveling to the UAE; you subscribe to and install your VPN before you set off.
What VPN features do you need if you are using a VPN in The UAE
If you access restricted websites and services in the UAE, you could face prosecution. Voice over IP is purposefully blocked, which means that you must use a highly secure VPN to unblock Skype, Facetime, Viber, or any other VoIP service.
Below we have included a list of the features your VPN must-have if you are going to access government restricted content or services in the UAE. Be sure to enable these features when you use your VPN.
- Strong OpenVPN encryption
Encryption is the part of the VPN software that conceals what you are doing from the ISP and the government. - Kill-switch
A kill-switch stops you from leaking unencrypted traffic to your ISP should the VPN connection drop out for any reason. This is vital if you don't want to reveal to your ISP that you are visiting a restricted website. - Stealth mode
Also known as obfuscated servers or obfuscation. This feature disguises your encrypted traffic as regular HTTPS. Although encrypted traffic is private, it can be enough to draw suspicion. Obfuscation stops the ISP from even knowing VPN encryption is happening. - DNS leak protection
DNS requests will let your ISP know what you are doing online, even if the VPN is connected, and the encryption is working. In the UAE, we strongly recommend disabling IPv6 (please use IPv4 only) as this is much better for your privacy and security and will stop you from having WebRTC leaks.
Are VPNs illegal in UAE?
That largely depends on who you are and why you're using a VPN.
Having a VPN installed on your device is not illegal. It's also legal for companies, institutions, and banks to use VPNs as part of their internal networks. An individual downloading a VPN in order to manipulate internet protocols and commit crimes, however, is very much punishable by law.
Just using a VPN could be enough to suggest that you have something to hide and are accessing restricted content. This is why we suggest using a VPN with obfuscations (stealth connections) if you intend to access restricted content. This will allow you to access content censored by the TRA, without leaving any digital clues.
This is important, as being caught "misusing" a VPN has some dire repercussions. You could be embroiled in an investigation, receive a fine, or even prison time!
Obviously, nobody wants to wind up behind bars for using a VPN, but it should be noted that the aforementioned fines are nothing to dismiss out of hand, either.
As per Article 9 of the UAE Cyber Law, anyone who "uses a fraudulent computer network protocol address by using a false address or a third-party address" could wind up with an eye-watering fine of not less than AED 500,000 or jail time – or both!
So if you want to stay on the right side of the law... don't break it. That being said, it's always worth choosing a VPN that provides strong encryption, a kill-switch, DNS leak protection, and some form of cloaking/obfuscation. Using a (non-recommended) free VPN for the UAE – or a VPN that does not provide these important features – could be risky depending on your use case.
Your best bet will be to stick to one of the recommended VPNs for UAE in this article, as they have all the features you need to stay secure.
For more information on this topic, check out our are VPNs legal? guide.
How to get a VPN in UAE
Plenty of businesses use VPNs to secure their data – and this is why VPN usage itself is not illegal in the UAE. Any time you use a VPN to encrypt your data and boost your privacy, you're acting legally. The moment you choose to access restricted websites or services is the moment you're committing a crime, however (even if nobody knows about it). This is why VPN use can potentially raise suspicions – and is why we recommend taking precautions to prevent anybody from realizing you're using a VPN.
Downloading your VPN
We recommend that you download and install your VPN software before you land in the UAE if you're visiting from another country. VPN sites are often blocked in the UAE, so accessing one when you're actually there might be tricky.
If you are already in the UAE, it is possible to subscribe to a VPN and have the provider send the installation and .config files to you directly for added discretion.
Using your VPN
As we discussed earlier, there are certain VPN features that are deemed to be essential when browsing the web in the UAE. Before you visit sites, it's a good idea to review your VPN settings and ensure that you are using OpenVPN encryption and the following features are all turned on (if your VPN offers them):
- Kill-switch
- DNS leak protection
- Stealth mode (obfuscation)
Testing your VPN
Finally, it is always a good idea to test your VPN isn't leaking before you use it. To do this, head over to our VPN leak testing tool and follow the steps. You'll get your results in a matter of minutes.
How does ProPrivacy review VPNs?
The sheer number of VPNs available on the market in 2022 can make picking out a provider a daunting task – users in the UAE, however, face the additional challenge of finding a VPN that isn't affected by the national ISP bans. But don't despair! The ProPrivacy team has been reviewing VPNs, using them in our day-to-day lives, and actively contributing to the cybersecurity industry since 2013. We're here to help, with VPN recommendations that are grounded in first-hand experience.
In order to determine which VPNs are the best for the UAE, I ensured they offered the following key features:
- Robust encryption – A VPN should, first and foremost, shore up your digital security with battle-tested encryption, and the UAE's VPN ban makes this doubly important.
- Leak protection – If you want to stay anonymous when using your VPN in the UAE, you'll need a service that'll prevent DNS, WebRTC, and IPv4 and IPv6 leaks.
- Reliable speeds – Nobody wants to deal with slow-loading webpages or endlessly buffering streams, after all!
- Zero-logs policy – A VPN that doesn't keep logs ensures that your browsing activity can't be traced back to you, allowing you to safely browse pages that might be illegal in the UAE.
- Apps for all platforms – To get the most for your money (and ensure you're protected regardless of the device you're using), it's important to pick up a VPN that's compatible with all operating systems.
Want to learn more?
For a full account of how we test VPNs, head on over to the ProPrivacy review process page.
Can I use a free VPN in UAE?
If you are running low on cash, you may be curious about the possibility of getting a free VPN to use in the UAE. The good news is that there are some VPNs on the market that provide a reliable and trustworthy free VPN plan – but these come with some caveats.
Free subscription plans are specifically designed to give you a limited taste of the paid version. As a result, those free plans are purposefully restricted – and may not provide you with the kind of service you need. For example, free VPNs cannot stream HD videos on a regular basis or to engage in video conferencing due to data caps and speed limits.
If it's just a VPN for day-to-day browsing, then a free VPN could be a great option. Just make sure you stick with our list of recommended free VPN providers.
Are free VPNs safe to use in UAE?
Not all of them. There are many free VPNs on the market that harvest user data and sell it to third parties. Studies have revealed that most free VPNs have weak encryption and even contain spyware in their apps. These VPNs are an enormous risk. There are even some free VPNs around that are rumored to be government honeypots designed to catch UAE internet users out! So it is important to be careful.
Risks aside, these free VPNs are often very limited when it comes to features and offer a basic service. You might miss out on the important VPN factors that we outlined above as essential for UAE users.
We'd recommend testing the VPNs in this article by putting their money-back guarantees to the test. This will allow you to trial a complete, premium-tier VPN – with all the market-leading privacy and security features – for approximately 30 days risk-free (check each VPN for the specific money-back deal).
Alternatively, you could subscribe to a cheap VPN and reduce the cost of a fully-featured VPN by committing for a longer period of time.
Top-tip: Get ExpressVPN for Free!
Did you know you can experience ExpressVPN's fully featured service without limitation… for free!
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What is blocked in the UAE?
Below we take a look at the various websites and online services that are subject to local censorship in the UAE to help you understand how a VPN could benefit you.
What websites are blocked in the UAE?
Unblocking restricted content and using illegal VoIP apps could get you in trouble with the police. For this reason, a UAE VPN must have very specific features that you wouldn't necessarily need elsewhere.
Unfortunately for people living in the UAE, many popular websites and services are blocked.
Here are just some examples of the kinds of sites and services that are restricted:
- Pornographic websites
- Websites containing LGBTQ material
- Anti-Religious websites
- Anti-Islamic websites
- Gambling websites
- Anti-government
- All Voice over IP apps
UAE VPNs for Skype, WhatsApp, and Facetime
The UAE government controls the local telecoms company and strictly prohibits anyone from making free calls on apps like Skype. The government has also forced ISPs within the country to block access to popular VoIP apps.
Fortunately, if you subscribe to one of the VPNs in this guide, you'll easily be able to access those apps and use them from within Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or elsewhere in the UAE.
Remember, you will need a VPN to use Skype, Discord, FaceTime, and most other VoIP apps.
VOIP features in mobile apps such as Snapchat and WhatsApp are also blocked in the UAE, meaning that you'll need a VPN to use them. By connecting to a VPN, iPhone and Android users can unblock these features and more. It's important to note that although iPhone and Android VPN apps look very similar to each other, encryption protocols can differ from service to service. Check the provider websites for more details about this.
While a VPN that is reliable will typically cost, on average, around $48 US per year, this can actually save you a lot of money by allowing you to make free calls to friends and family – as well as international calls for free.
If you are living anywhere in the UAE, a VPN can help you. The state imposes many blocks and a VPN can help you circumvent them all. It can be difficult to get on with your life if you can't access all the websites, apps, and services that are available online.
With a VPN it doesn't matter whether you were born in Dubai, or are on holiday in Abu Dhabi; a VPN will let you bypass geo-restrictions, access the full Netflix catalog, use your Spotify login, let you unblock YouTube videos, or access illegal content such as pornography while you are in UAE.
Can I unblock GeForce Now with a VPN?
Nvidia's streaming platform is finally here, and you'll need to use a VPN if you want to access it from the UAE. Nvidia's GeForce Now game streaming platform lets you play AAA games from your browser, without the need for an expensive gaming PC. That means you can leverage the power of Nvidia's servers to play games, even on a laptop!
Bear in mind that Nvidia only wants people playing on servers in their own region. This is primarily to optimize the service, though it can be frustrating if you'd rather play games with international GeForce users.
To make matters worse, there's currently no server in the Middle East. This means that anyone living in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or Bahrain will be served a "GeForce Now is currently not supported in your region" message.
However, there is some good news! You can use any of the VPNs in this guide to spoof your location and pretend to be in Europe, the USA, or anywhere else overseas where the game streaming platform is available. Simply subscribe to one of the VPNs in this guide, navigate to GeForce Now and use the service thanks to your VPN!
Can I get an IP address in the UAE with a VPN?
The answer to this question completely revolves around whether the VPN provider you pick has servers in the UAE. Unfirtunately, many VPNs do not maintain servers in the UAE as it is quite an expensive location to maintain a server.
Some VPNs get around this by providing ISPs in the UAE using a virtual server (that uses Smart DNS routing to get you an IP address in the UAE via a server that is physically located in a different country.
Ultimtely, the only way to know whether your VPN will be able to provide you with an IP address in the UAE is to check that provider's server list. Most VPN will maintain this list on their website.
The good news is that our second most recommended VPN for the UAE (NordVPN) has servers in Abhi Dhabi. This means that you can access local UAE services while travelogn abroad. Unfortuntaely, despite being very good for users in the UAE, our top recommendation does not actually have any servers in the UAE.
Can I watch UAE TV with a VPN?
Yes. If you are traveling overseas and want to access home TV services you can do this with a VPN. Just bear in mind that you will need to stick to a VPN provider that actually has servers in the UAE (not all our recommendations have UAE servers, so please check).
Once you have subscribed to a VPN that has servers int he UAE, simply connect to that server and then head over to your favorite streaming services. Below, we have included a list of UAE platforms that you can watch with a VPN from abroad.
- OSN Streaming
- Shahid
- StarzPlay
- beIN Connect
- Etisalat eLife ON
- du View
- Wavo by OSN
- Amazon Prime Video
- Netflix UAE
- Apple TV+
FAQs
Conclusion
Picking out a VPN provider in the UAE isn't a straightforward task – not when ISPs are actively working to block them. However, as long as you stick to a VPN with reliable service and make good use of its advanced security features, there's nothing to worry about. Feel free to drop us a message if you have any questions – and remember that you can try any of our recommended VPNs risk-free, thanks to their money-back guarantees.
From $6.67/month
The best VPN for the UAE. Works for Etisalat customers, packs superb encryption, and even a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- ProPrivacy TrustScore:
- 10 out of 10
- Simultaneous connections
- 8
- Server locations
- 160
- Free trial
- No
From $3.69/month
The best value VPN for the UAE. A zero-logs policy and suite of security features ensure you go undetected online in the UAE.
- ProPrivacy TrustScore:
- 9.9 out of 10
- Simultaneous connections
- 10
- Free trial
- No
- Server locations
- 135
From $1.99/month
The best well-rounded VPN for the UAE. A no-go for Etisalat, but offers a huge server network and leak protection.
- ProPrivacy TrustScore:
- 9.8 out of 10
- Simultaneous connections
- Unlimited
- Server locations
- 140
- Free trial
- Yes
From $2.00/month
The best cheap VPN for the UAE. With stealth technology, a kill-switch, and user-friendly apps for all of your devices.
- ProPrivacy TrustScore:
- 9.7 out of 10
- Simultaneous connections
- 10
- Server locations
- 200
- Free trial
- No
From $5.00/month
The best stealth VPN for the UAE. Strong on privacy, thanks to its Chameleon protocol, and superb encryption.
- ProPrivacy TrustScore:
- 9.6 out of 10
- Simultaneous connections
- 10
- Server locations
- 70
- Free trial
- No