5 Best VPNs for UAE & Dubai – Safe & Working in 2024
Reading time: 34 min
Updated on December 23, 2024
Dubai and the UAE have strict internet regulations that prohibit access to online content and services, making it difficult for you to connect with your favorite sites and apps when you’re traveling. However, you can use a top-tier VPN service to catch up with shows and movies and chat with friends while you’re visiting Dubai and the UAE.
Not all VPNs have the high-level features necessary to freely access the internet from within the UAE. I tested more than 30 services to find the best VPNs for Dubai, with ExpressVPN emerging as the top choice.
ExpressVPN’s server obfuscation and fast speeds make it ideal for smooth, secure connections in the UAE — and you can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Get the top VPN for Dubai and the UAE
Important: Make sure you download your VPN before you visit Dubai and the UAE. Otherwise, you’ll find your VPN website is blocked, and you won’t be able to download the apps once you’re traveling.
Quick Guide: Best VPNs for Dubai in 2024
- ExpressVPN — Top-tier security and privacy plus blazing-fast speeds are ideal for smooth, safe connections in Dubai and the UAE. Try ExpressVPN risk-free!
- CyberGhost — Optimized servers are good choices for streaming, torrenting, and online gaming, but it is an expensive monthly option.
- Private Internet Access — Huge global network provides fast, reliable connections on nearby servers, but it is based in the US (part of the Eyes alliance intelligence-sharing group).
- PrivateVPN — Stealth VPN feature is ideal for accessing home accounts when traveling to Dubai, but its small server network can result in congestion and slower speeds.
- IPVanish — Scramble feature helps avoid proxy detection technology that could block your connection, but it is expensive considering its limited feature set.
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
The Best VPNs for Dubai and the UAE (Tested in 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — Obfuscation on All Servers Provides Top-Tier Security and Privacy in Dubai
Key Features:
- 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries with servers near to the UAE
- Blazing-fast speeds for uninterrupted streaming, video calls, and browsing
- Connect 8 devices at the same time
- 24/7 live chat support, email, and online FAQs
- 30-day money-back guarantee
With obfuscation on every server, ExpressVPN provides high-level security and anonymity when you travel to Dubai. Server obfuscation is automatically active, so you won’t have to manually configure the app to mask your VPN traffic — simply connect to the server of your choice, and you’ll be protected from the UAE’s proxy detection technology.
As well as obfuscation, ExpressVPN provides many top-tier features to keep your data and devices secure in Dubai, including:
- AES-256-bit encryption on all servers, the same kind used by the US military and financial institutions
- Data leak protection prevents accidental DNS, IP, and WebRTC leaks that could expose your personal information
- Automatic kill switch cuts access to the internet to secure your data if the VPN connection is interrupted
- TrustedServer Technology and RAM-based servers ensure no data or activity can be stored when you’re connected to ExpressVPN — proven when Turkish authorities were unable to recover data from a seized ExpressVPN server
- Audited zero-log privacy policy guarantees your personally-identifying data is always secure
I had expected these premium features would slow my speeds, but ExpressVPN is the fastest service I’ve tested. By connecting with its proprietary Lightway protocols, even long-distance connections were blazing-fast — it was like I wasn’t connected to a VPN. On average, my speeds reduced a tiny 18%, which didn’t affect my connection at all.
These fast speeds make ExpressVPN a top choice for all of your online activities, including torrenting, online gaming, shopping and banking, and streaming your favorite content. You’ll find ExpressVPN can easily access a range of streaming services, including:
| Netflix | Disney+ | HBO Max | Hulu | Amazon Prime Video |
| Paramount+ | BBC iPlayer | ITVX | Peacock | Crunchyroll |
| Sling TV | DirecTV | ESPN | DAZN | …and more! |
To make it easy to bring with you when traveling, ExpressVPN is compatible with a range of devices, including Windows and Mac, smartphones, Amazon Fire devices, and more. Plus, you’ll find the app is basically identical across all devices, making it easy to navigate whether you’re streaming on Amazon Prime Video or FaceTiming on your iPhone.
The only downside is ExpressVPN is a little more expensive than other options, with plans starting at /month. However, for guaranteed security and privacy in the UAE, plus blazing-fast speeds for your online activities, I think it’s worth the extra cost.
You can try ExpressVPN in Dubai and the UAE risk-free, as the service is backed by a money-back guarantee. If you’re not completely satisfied, you can get a full refund within 30 days, and the process is simple. I contacted the 24/7 live chat to request a refund and the agent arranged it with no questions. I had my money back within 5 days.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
Get ExpressVPN's Black Friday Deal! You can subscribe to ExpressVPN for as low as per month + get extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to %)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers Ensure Reliable, Secure Connections When Traveling to the UAE
Key Features:
- 11,670+ servers in 100+ countries, plus servers in the UAE
- Fast speeds on local servers, with optimized streaming and torrenting options
- Connect up to 7 devices simultaneously
- 24/7 customer service, with live chat, email, and online FAQs
- 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost’s optimized servers are ideal for reliable connections when you’re in the UAE. These servers are tested regularly by CyberGhost staff to ensure working connections. During my tests, I had no issues with using the servers to maintain a fast, reliable connection.
These optimized servers are also faster than CyberGhost’s standard servers, making them a good choice for smooth, lag-free connections. During my tests, I found CyberGhost’s local servers are very fast — reducing my speed by just 15% — while long-distance connections experience a bigger slowdown. Fortunately, internet speeds in the UAE are around 100Mbps on average, so you shouldn’t notice an impact on your online activities.
With these reliably fast speeds, you’ll find CyberGhost is a great choice for quick torrenting, online gaming, and streaming your favorite shows and movies. With CyberGhost, you can make connections to the following streaming services:
| Netflix | Disney+ | HBO Max | Hulu |
| Amazon Prime Video | BBC iPlayer | ITVX | Paramount+ |
| Sling TV | ESPN | DAZN | …and more! |
To ensure all of your connections are safe and anonymous when traveling to Dubai and the UAE, CyberGhost offers a range of top-tier security and privacy features on all of its apps. These include:
- AES-256-bit encryption on all connections to keep your data and activity private
- Data leak protection prevents accidental DNS and IP leaks from exposing your information
- Malicious ad blocker stops ads containing dangerous code to protect you from hackers and viruses
- RAM-based servers cannot physically store data, ensuring your activity is always anonymous when connected to CyberGhost
- Audited zero-log policy confirms CyberGhost will never log or store your data.
You can bring top-tier protection when you travel as CyberGhost has native apps for multiple popular platforms — Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire devices, and more. You can connect up to 7 devices at the same time, making it simple to connect from your hotel room or on the go with your smartphone.
My only issue with CyberGhost is its lack of server obfuscation. This makes it more likely that your VPN traffic is noticed and blocked by the UAE’s proxy detection technology. However, CyberGhost offers more than 11,670 servers in its network, so you can easily find a working connection.
While CyberGhost’s short-term plans are expensive, its long-term options are affordable — prices start at just /month. I suggest you try CyberGhost, as it’s backed by a 45-day money-back guarantee. If it’s not right for you, simply contact customer service for a full refund. It only takes a couple of minutes to arrange, and I had my refund within a week.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to %)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. Private Internet Access — Global Network of 35,000+ Servers Ideal for Reliable Connections From Dubai
Key Features:
- Huge network of 35,000+ servers in 91+ countries, plus UAE connections
- Solid speeds for streaming, video calls, torrenting, and more
- Secures up to unlimited device connections
- 24/7 live chat, email, and FAQs
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Private Internet Access (PIA) has an enormous server network of more than 35,000 servers in 91+ locations. PIA’s large network also features connections in the UAE, which are a top choice for safe local streaming, shopping, and browsing — plus, you can keep up with your favorite shows and movies when traveling. PIA can connect you to the following services:
| Netflix | Disney+ | HBO Max | Hulu | Amazon Prime Video |
| BBC iPlayer | ITVX | YouTube TV | ESPN | …and more! |
To keep your data and devices protected, PIA has high-level features available on every app, including:
- Customizable encryption levels that can boost speeds without compromising your data security
- Multi Hop server obfuscation masks your VPN traffic by routing your connection through 2 servers
- MACE ad and malware blocker that stops annoying pop-up and banner ads, and prevents malicious code from attacking your devices
- Audited zero-log policy confirmed by a third party that PIA won’t log or store your data or activity when you’re connected to its servers.
You can download PIA to multiple platforms before you travel to the UAE as there are native apps available for Windows, Mac, smartphones, and more. With up to unlimited connections, it’s easy to stream, torrent, and browse on several devices at the same time. PIA’s apps are easy to set up and intuitive, making them a good choice for beginner and advanced VPN users.
In terms of speed, PIA is reliably fast on nearby server connections, with some slowdown over long distances. During tests, my average speed drop was 20%, which wasn’t enough to make an impact on online activities. However, you may notice a bigger slowdown for long-distance connections. I recommend switching to AES-128-bit encryption or using the WireGuard protocol to keep speeds fast.
The only concern with PIA is its company headquarters in the US, which is notoriously unfriendly when it comes to data privacy. While PIA has undergone an independent audit and has a strict privacy policy, some may still feel uneasy about using a VPN in the UAE that is based in the US.
Overall, PIA is a reliably secure option for the UAE, with plans starting at as little as /month (a % discount from its regular price). Plus, with a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try PIA risk-free. I used PIA for 25 days before requesting a refund over live chat and had my money back in less than a week.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
PIA works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, PlayStation, Xbox, Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to %)! This is a limited offer, so grab it now before it's gone! See more information on this offer here!
4. PrivateVPN — Stealth VPN Avoids Detection by UAE Proxy Technology
Key Features:
- Small but solid network of 200+ servers in 63+ countries
- Good speeds across network for lag-free streaming, video calls, and more
- Connect up to 10 devices at the same time
- 24/7 live chat and email support
- 30-day money-back guarantee
PrivateVPN’s Stealth VPN feature allows you to connect to your preferred websites from home when you travel to the UAE by disguising your VPN traffic. It makes your traffic look like regular internet data, not a proxy or VPN connection. This feature protects your connection no matter which server you choose. To use it, you need to activate it in PrivateVPN’s settings before connecting.
Alongside Stealth VPN obfuscation, PrivateVPN has security and privacy features to protect your data and devices when connected:
- Military-grade encryption secures your connection and activity to avoid prying eyes and third parties
- Automatic kill switch cuts access to the internet if your VPN connection is interrupted, maintaining your security
- DNS and IP leak protection stops accidental leaks that could expose your information and true location
- Independently audited privacy policy confirms that PrivateVPN never logs or stores your data when you connect to its servers.
I was pleased to find PrivateVPN’s top-tier features didn’t impact my speeds significantly, although there was a slight slowdown with Stealth VPN active. On average, my speed reduced by around 30%. It’s not as fast as ExpressVPN, but the fast connection speeds in the UAE mean you shouldn’t notice much of an impact on your online activities. You may experience a bigger slowdown if you connect to distant servers, but this is typical for a VPN.
PrivateVPN’s reliable speeds are good for torrenting, gaming, and streaming — it can access the following services:
| Netflix | Disney+ | HBO Max | Hulu | Amazon Prime Video |
| BBC iPlayer | Sling TV | YouTube TV | ESPN | …and more! |
With PrivateVPN, you can connect up to 10 devices at the same time. I find this particularly generous, especially for such an affordable VPN (plans start at just $2.00 per month for a 3-year subscription). PrivateVPN’s intuitive apps are available for a wide range of platforms, and it’s easy to set up and configure the app for top-tier security and privacy in the UAE.
My only issue with PrivateVPN is its small network, which can cause problems making a connection at peak traffic times. Sometimes, I had to wait upwards of 2 minutes to establish a connection. However, once connected, I didn’t experience interruptions or issues.
If you’d like to try PrivateVPN in the UAE, you’ll be pleased to know it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested the guarantee by sending an email to customer support, asking to cancel my account. I had an email response the same day, and my money was returned within a week.
PrivateVPN works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Blackberry, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Xiaomi Mi Box, Google Chromecast, Android TVs, routers, and more.
5. IPVanish — Easily Pick the Fastest Connection from Dubai With Intuitive, Detailed Interface
Key Features:
- 2,400+ servers in 55+ countries, plus servers in the UAE
- Good speeds for streaming, torrenting, video calls, and browsing online
- Protect unlimited devices at the same time
- 24/7 customer service — live chat and email support
- 30-day money-back guarantee
IPVanish has a detailed and intuitive interface designed to make choosing the best server easy. Each server has the ping (or latency) listed in ms and the server user load in %. All you have to do is choose a server in your desired location with low ping and load to ensure you get the best speeds for a smooth, reliable connection.
I found I had the best speeds when I manually chose IPVanish servers, rather than letting IPVanish automatically connect me. On average, IPVanish only reduced my speed by 12% on local servers, with distant servers causing a more dramatic drop of 34%. Fortunately, these reductions didn’t impact my streaming, online gaming, or downloads.
To ensure your connections are secure when you travel to the UAE, IPVanish provides the following features on all of its apps:
- AES-256-bit encryption to protect your data and activity from third parties
- Data leak protection prevents DNS and IP information from accidentally exposing your identity and location
- Zero-log privacy policy independently audited to confirm IPVanish won’t log or store your data
- Scramble obfuscation stops proxy detection technology from recognizing your traffic as VPN-based, avoiding blocks.
Typically, I’d recommend using the WireGuard connection protocol for top speeds, but when in Dubai and the UAE you should connect with OpenVPN. This is because IPVanish’s Scramble obfuscation feature only works with OpenVPN, and it’s essential to mask your VPN traffic to avoid proxy detection technology. Scramble effectively allows you to connect to your favorite online content and services while you’re traveling.
IPVanish offers unlimited device connections. This is extremely rare for a premium VPN. I didn’t have to worry about disconnecting one device to secure another, and it’s easy to download and connect to IPVanish on a range of devices.
If you want a VPN for streaming, IPVanish can connect you to the following services:
| Netflix | Disney+ | HBO Max | Amazon Prime Video |
| BBC iPlayer | Hulu | ESPN | …and more! |
The problem with IPVanish is that it’s expensive for what it offers. Plans start at /month, but you won’t find features like split tunneling, malware protection, or optimized servers — tools that CyberGhost offers for a lower cost.
You can try IPVanish risk-free in Dubai for up to 30 days with its money-back guarantee. Canceling is easy; just visit your account in your browser and click “Cancel Now” in the Subscriptions tab. I had my money back within 2 days.
IPVanish works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Xbox, Firefox, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, Google Chromecast, Android TVs, routers, and more.
Why do I Need a VPN in Dubai and UAE?
Dubai and the UAE have strict internet regulations that block access to sites and services like VoIP apps, gambling, pornography, and more. These blocks are partly to protect the UAE’s telecoms infrastructure, and also to prevent citizens from consuming content that goes against the beliefs and principles of the UAE.
When you travel to the UAE, you may find you can’t access your local accounts for particular services, like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or connect to your favorite streaming sites. You’ll only be able to connect with your accounts by using a premium VPN service.
A top-tier VPN easily masks your true location with an encrypted connection, making your device appear to be in another country. With sophisticated features like server obfuscation, you can use a VPN to avoid the UAE’s network restrictions and visit your favorite sites, catch up with friends on video calls, or stream on your local Netflix account with ease.
It’s important that your VPN is a high-quality service, as sub-par or free VPNs don’t have the features you need to connect to your accounts. A service like ExpressVPN ensures you can make fast and secure connections when visiting Dubai and the UAE, so you can enjoy your travel without risking your data and anonymity.
Are VPNs Legal in the UAE?
Legally, VPNs are a gray area in the UAE. Having a VPN installed on your devices to use for secure browsing, shopping, banking, and more is legal. You are well within your rights to use an encrypted VPN connection to ensure your data and online activity are private. In my research, I haven’t found any indications that tourists have been penalized for using a VPN in legal ways.
However, it is not legal to use a VPN connection to perform illegal or banned activities. This includes using apps, services, and online content deemed inappropriate by religious standards or that “contradicts the ethics and morality of the UAE.” Banned and illegal content includes:
- VoIP services, like WhatsApp, Skype, FaceTime, and Viber (this is designed to protect the UAE’s telecom infrastructure, so citizens pay to make calls rather than using free apps)
- Pornography
- LGBTQ+ content
- Gambling
- Anti-religious and anti-Islamic sites
- Anti-government sites
Visitors to the UAE may want to use a VPN to access streaming accounts, which is also a gray area. While it isn’t illegal to access your local account when traveling, many streaming services don’t permit the use of location-changing technology. Using a VPN or proxy often goes against the Terms of Use, meaning you could face an account suspension or termination. Make sure you’re aware of the rules of your streaming account before connecting with a VPN.
How to Avoid VPN blocking
VPNs and proxies are often blocked by telecom providers in the UAE due to ever-expanding laws and regulations surrounding VPN use. To avoid having your connection blocked, here are a few tips:
1. Don’t use a free VPN
No free VPNs are suitable for use in the UAE — not even the top free VPNs in 2024. Free services are much more likely to be detected and blocked due to a high number of users, and they won’t offer the security, server connections, and premium features you need for Dubai and the UAE.
Many free VPNs claim to have the best security and privacy features, but really you’ll get the following:
- Sub-par encryption levels
- No data leak protection
- No kill switch
- Dubious logging policies
Free services often store and sell user data to generate revenue, putting your personal security at risk. Worse still, some free VPNs have been shown to contain malware that infects your devices when you download it.
As VPN use in the UAE and Dubai is already a legal gray area, it’s a much better and safer idea to subscribe to a premium VPN service. There are multiple affordable options, including low-cost monthly VPN subscriptions, so you don’t have to pay a fortune to get top-tier protection.
2. Change your TCP port to 443
Port 443 is the same port the HTTPS protocol uses. By switching to port 433 with the OpenVPN protocol, you’re effectively adding a layer of obfuscation to your connection — to HTTPS websites, your traffic will look like SSL traffic (and not VPN traffic). This can help you avoid proxy detection by UAE and Dubai networks, and it’s easily configurable in your VPN’s protocol settings.
3. Use a different protocol
If you find the OpenVPN TCP protocol is blocked, try a different option available from your VPN. Some services have their own proprietary protocols; for example, ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is a fast and secure option for use in Dubai and the UAE.
Other secure protocols you can try are WireGuard, IKEv2, and LT2P/IPSec. Make sure you only use LT2P if it’s supported by IPSec, otherwise the connection won’t be secure. You could also try SSTP, although this isn’t commonly available on VPN services (unless it’s on a Windows app).
Avoid using the PPTP protocol, as it’s old and outdated, and has numerous vulnerabilities that could compromise the security of your connection.
How to Set Up a VPN for Dubai on All Your Devices
Windows and Mac
- Download and install a secure and reliable VPN. With obfuscation on every server connection, I recommend ExpressVPN as the top VPN for Dubai and the UAE.
- Launch the VPN and connect to a server. Choose a server that is close to your physical location for the best speeds, or in your home country to access your local accounts.
- Start using the internet anonymously. Stay connected to the server to ensure your traffic is private.
Android and iOS
Make sure you sign up for your VPN subscription through the VPN’s site and not through the app store. This way, you get the benefit of the money-back guarantee and easy refund process with the VPN provider — refunds through the app store can take weeks.
- Get a VPN that works with your Android or iOS device. I was pleased to find ExpressVPN’s Android and iOS apps are fast and secure for use in Dubai.
- Connect to a server. Choose your server manually, or let your VPN select the best option for you.
- Enjoy a secure connection when traveling to Dubai and the UAE. Keep your connection private when you’re out and about in just a couple of clicks.
Browsers
Use a VPN to encrypt your browser connection while using other apps on a local IP address.
- Choose a VPN with a secure browser extension. Compatible with Firefox, Chrome, Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi, ExpressVPN’s browser extension supports multiple platforms.
- Connect to a VPN server with the extension. ExpressVPN provides access to all 3,000+ servers, while other extensions have a smaller number of servers available.
- Browse securely in Dubai and the UAE.
Android Fire Stick
When you travel to Dubai and the UAE, you can easily set up a VPN with your Amazon Fire Stick or Fire TV in just a few clicks. All of the top VPNs have dedicated apps for Amazon Fire devices.
- Get a VPN from the Amazon Appstore. For quick and easy installation and setup, ExpressVPN has a dedicated app for Amazon devices that you can download in just a few minutes.
- Configure the VPN with your Amazon Fire Stick or TV. Most VPNs are ready to use without the need to change any settings.
- Connect to a server in your home country. You can access your local streaming accounts to watch your favorite shows and movies when visiting Dubai.
Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for Dubai
| Data Leak Protection | Server Obfuscation | Speed | Unblock Streaming Platforms | Device Connections | Money-Back Guarantee | |
| ExpressVPN | ✔
DNS, IP, and WebRTC |
✔ | Very Fast | Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more | 8 | 30 days |
| CyberGhost | ✔
DNS and IP |
✘ | Fast | Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more | 7 | 45 days |
| PIA | ✔
DNS, IP, and WebRTC |
✔ | Fast | Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more | unlimited | 30 days |
| PrivateVPN | ✔
DNS and IP |
✔ | Good | Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and more | 10 | 30 days |
| IPVanish | ✔
DNS and IP |
✔ | Good | Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and more | unlimited | 30 days |
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for Dubai
To ensure you get the best service, I tested more than 30 different apps to find the best VPNs in 2024 for Dubai and the UAE. Each VPN was then ranked according to the following criteria:
- Global server network: A large network ensures you can always find a fast, reliable connection — whether you’re a tourist visiting the UAE wanting to access content from home, or a citizen of Dubai who wants to connect to your home country when abroad.
- Fast speeds: Maintaining fast speeds, especially over long-distance connections, is ideal for lag-free streaming, torrenting, online gaming, browsing, and more.
- Top-tier security: Your VPN should provide AES-256-bit encryption, data leak protection, and a kill switch to maintain your online security. Other high-level features for Dubai and the UAE include server obfuscation, secure connection protocols, and malware blocking tools.
- Guaranteed privacy: I read each VPN’s privacy policy to guarantee your data and online activity are never logged or stored when connected. I also looked for independent, third-party audits that confirm a strict, zero-log policy is in place.
- Ease of use: Each VPN has an easy-to-use, intuitive interface and only takes a couple of minutes to download and set up — with minimal manual configuration so you secure your connection quickly.
- Value for money: I tested VPNs with a range of price points to find top-tier security and privacy to suit your budget. Plus, every VPN has a money-back guarantee, so you can try the service risk-free.
Warning! Avoid These VPNs in the UAE and Dubai
Cross VPN
Cross VPN has repeatedly been flagged for containing malware, particularly Trojan viruses that open up a pathway to your devices — making it easy for hackers and spies to gain access to your personal and sensitive data.
Betternet VPN
Betternet VPN logs and stores user data when you’re connected to its servers, which in turn means you’ll be targeted by ads and marketing content. Plus, Betternet VPN has also been flagged as containing malware.
LinkVPN
LinkVPN bombards the user with invasive, noisy ads in order to keep its service free, and its privacy policy states that your in-app searches are logged by the company — likely to target you with ads.
FAQs: VPNs and the UAE
Which is the best VPN to use in UAE for Skype, WhatsApp, and FaceTime video calls?
Is it safe to use a VPN for VoIP services in the UAE?
Is it safe to shop online or use online banking with a VPN in the UAE?
Yes, it’s safe and legal to shop and bank online with a VPN when you’re in the UAE. You are well within your rights to use an encrypted VPN connection to protect your activity and data, especially your financial information. It’s a good idea to connect with a VPN no matter which country you’re in.
Using a VPN only becomes illegal when you’re using it to perform banned activities, like visiting gambling websites, sites with adult content, sites that promote anti-religious ideologies, and similar. As long as you’re not using a VPN for illegal activity, you should be fine, but be sure to check the laws surrounding VPNs (and the potential consequences) before you connect.
Are Netflix and other streaming services allowed in the UAE?
Yes, you can watch Netflix and other streaming services in the UAE. However, I recommend using a VPN to connect to your local streaming account when traveling, as this will let you access the full range of content available.
Some services, like Netflix, only permit access to limited content when you’re not connecting from your home country. Others will block access altogether if you’re not in your subscription service area. To ensure you can always keep up with your favorite shows and movies, use a VPN to connect to a server in your home country before you start streaming.
What is an obfuscated server and why is this important for UAE VPNs?
Obfuscated servers mask your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it difficult for ISPs to detect your VPN use. This is one of the best features for a UAE VPN, as the UAE is notorious for blocking VPN connections. Obfuscating, or masking, your VPN traffic means you’re unlikely to find your connection is blocked or be targeted for surveillance — something that can happen to ensure you’re not using a VPN to access illegal content or use banned services.
While many individuals use VPNs in the UAE and Dubai, you don’t want to be flagged as someone who might be breaking the law. Obfuscated servers are the best way to avoid detection, alongside AES-256-bit encryption, data leak protection, and an automatic kill switch.
Can I use Tor or a Proxy instead of a VPN in Dubai?
You can, but you won’t get the high-level security and anonymity provided by a premium VPN service. To understand why, it’s important to know how Tor and proxies work:
Tor
This is a browser that provides access to the Tor network, which routes your encrypted connection through a series of volunteer computers (or “nodes”) before you reach your online destination. While it’s very private, it’s also extremely slow; you won’t be able to stream, torrent, game online, or video call. Plus, there is always the risk that the exit node is compromised, which could expose your identity and activity to spying third parties.
Proxies
These are online services that change the appearance of your location, making it look like your device is somewhere else geographically. Proxies generally don’t offer any encryption or privacy features, so your online activity is still visible to anyone watching. You also can’t be sure your data is secure, as it’s not impossible for the proxy owner to log your data and activity to sell for profit.
Ultimately, the only way you can guarantee your security and privacy is with a VPN. Premium VPN services are designed to keep your data and activity anonymous, with high-level features and audited privacy policies.
Do I need to download a VPN app before I travel to Dubai?
Yes, you should download your VPN before you travel to Dubai or the UAE. You’re likely to find that websites for the top VPNs in 2024 aren’t accessible from inside the UAE, due to regulations surrounding VPN use. This means that even if you subscribe to a VPN, you may not be able to visit the website to download the app once you’re there.
Downloading a VPN when inside the UAE can also attract the attention of the authorities. While using a VPN is legal in Dubai and the UAE, it’s not legal to change your IP address to access banned content (like adult and gambling websites, VoIP services, and more). To avoid potentially being targeted for online surveillance, make sure your VPN app is downloaded to your devices before you travel.
Does Omegle work in the UAE?
No, Omegle is blocked in the UAE. The only way to access the site is to connect to a premium VPN server in a country outside of the UAE. This way, you can securely chat with strangers online while you’re visiting.
However, it’s important to note that Omegle is banned (like many VoIP services including FaceTime, WhatsApp, and Skype), so using a VPN to access the site is in breach of the law. My team and I don’t condone breaking the law or any illegal activity, so make sure you’re aware of the rules and regulations before using a VPN to connect to Omegle in the UAE.
Can I be tracked when using a VPN in the UAE?
No, you can’t be tracked when using a top-tier VPN in the UAE. By choosing a VPN with military-grade encryption, leak protection, server obfuscation, and an audited zero-log policy, you can rest assured your online activity is private and anonymous.
However, if you use a free or low-quality VPN in the UAE you could be tracked. Poor quality VPNs don’t have the sophisticated security and privacy features provided by premium services, and this can put you at risk of compromising your data and online activity.
Do any VPNs have UAE servers?
What is the penalty for being caught using a VPN in the UAE?
Generally, using a VPN is legal, so you won’t face a penalty if you use a VPN for legal activities. However, it is illegal to use a VPN connection to access banned or illegal content and services. You could face legal repercussions if you’re caught doing this.
Penalties for using a VPN in an illegal way include temporary imprisonment and a fine of up to Dh2million, or around $272,000.
Can I use a free VPN for Dubai?
I don’t recommend using a free VPN for Dubai, as you simply won’t get the high-quality security and privacy features needed for a safe, anonymous connection.
Free VPNs are notoriously shady, with poor encryption levels, sub-par data protection, and no kill switch. Plus, many free services log your data and activity to sell to third parties as profit. You could not only find yourself monitored by the authorities, but you’re also exposing your sensitive information to anyone watching your connection — putting you at risk of identity theft and fraud.
Instead, I recommend you try a premium VPN, such as the ones listed in this article.
Get the Best VPN for Dubai Today
To ensure you have access to your favorite content when traveling to Dubai, you need the security and anonymity of a premium VPN. With an encrypted VPN connection, you can stream on your local accounts, chat with friends, and protect your data and devices when you travel.
Not all VPNs are equipped with the technology and features to keep your activity anonymous and secure — only the top VPNs in 2024 for Dubai and the UAE provide the protection and privacy you need. Of the recommended VPNs, ExpressVPN’s premium security features make it the best choice for Dubai. You get blazing-fast speeds even with obfuscation on every server, ensuring smooth, lag-free connections.
I recommend you try ExpressVPN in the UAE risk-free. If you’re not fully satisfied, you can get a refund within 30 days, with no questions asked. I tested the process, and it took just a couple of minutes to arrange my refund. I had my money back in 5 days.
Summary — Best VPNs for Dubai in 2024
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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