Whether you live in the UAE or are just visiting, the region's censorship may prevent you from watching your favorite shows and movies. With one of today's best VPNs, however, you'll have no problem bypassing these roadblocks to enjoy content from anywhere – and seriously improved digital privacy.
VPNs aren't all made equal, however, which is why the TechRadar team has been researching and reviewing today's top competitors for 11 years. I've used our most recent test results to round up the best UAE VPNs based on their performance, security, and unblocking power.
The 5 best UAE VPNs: quick overview
In a hurry? No problem. Here's a roundup of my top UAE picks:
The best UAE/Dubai VPN for 2025:
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
See how our top picks for VPN for the UAE compare in the following analysis and reviews as we discuss reasons to subscribe, reasons to avoid, our test results, what we liked most about each provider, and how they compare with the competition.
The best VPN overall
Are you an adventurous UAE resident in search of the best UAE VPN that will take your online experiences to new heights? The biggest VPN name in the market might be just the right solution for those who dare to explore the digital realm while keeping their privacy intact.
When it comes to safeguarding your online privacy, NordVPN stands as an impenetrable fortress. It creates a secure tunnel for your internet traffic, shielding it from prying eyes and potential threats. With NordVPN, you can confidently browse, shop, and communicate knowing that your personal information remains confidential and protected.
▶ Try NordVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Among our favorite security features are double kill switches, DNS leak protection, 256-bit encryption, Onion over VPN to reroute traffic via both the VPN server and the Tor network, and a Double VPN option so that all your internet traffic will be encrypted not once, but twice. Its new addition, Meshnet, is also ideal for those seeking to secure their workload across multiple devices, plus it's free of charge for all.
NordVPN boasts over 7,000 speedy servers dotted around the globe that can be accessed from the UAE with great reliability. Some of those are actually in the UAE, a great feature if you live locally and want to keep search results locally focused. These UAE-based locations even host obfuscated servers that are specifically configured to bypass network firewalls in countries with the toughest restrictions.
Despite restriction efforts by Etisalat and Du, NordVPN performs well as both a Netflix VPN and BBC iPlayer VPN while in the UAE. It does that at great speed, too. We experienced some improved connection speeds reaching 950+Mbps with WireGuard last time we checked, placing itself among the fastest VPN services on the market right now.
By leveraging its vast network of servers worldwide, NordVPN enables you to make free international calls using popular VoIP apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime, which are blocked in the UAE. Stay connected with your friends and family, no matter the distance, and enjoy crystal-clear conversations has never been easier.
Yet, we still aren't fans of its map-based interface on smaller screens, and its browser extensions are still a bit basic. Linux users might find Nord's installation process a bit daunting, too. Nonetheless, you can count on speedy 24/7 live chat support to address any issues in no time and a 30-day money-back guarantee to try it out yourself risk-free.
The best VPN for beginners
ExpressVPN boasts enterprise-grade AES-256 encryption, numerous protocols to choose from (including its own, speedy, open-sourced Lightway), a kill switch on most platforms, plus IPv6 leak protection.
To take it a step further, ExpressVPN operates with a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don't keep any records of your online activities, while offering a range of advanced security features as well. Take split tunneling, for example, which allows you to exclude specific apps or websites from its VPN protection. A new ad and adult site blocker launched with its last feature-packed update too.
► Try ExpressVPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
We also love its tried and tested 24/7 live chat support—all that good stuff above is largely useless if you can't get it working. And let's not forget about their user-friendly interface. ExpressVPN offers intuitive apps for a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and even its own router with built-in VPN Aircove alongside a new dedicated Apple TV app.
The provider boasts a secure international network across 105 countries with great unblocking powers and obfuscated servers so that UAE ISPs will struggle to detect that you're using a VPN service. It also allows you to watch BBC iPlayer or US Netflix while in Dubai, for example.
The only real downside is that, at the time of writing, ExpressVPN doesn't have servers within the country. So, if you need to privately browse locally, this may not be the service for you. Yet, it recently boosted its simultaneous connections allowance from five to up to eight devices connected at once—some providers allow use on one subscription for unlimited devices these days, though. But even that should be plenty for most users.
We also praise the provider's commitment to transparency, counting over a dozen independent audits in 2024 alone. Anyway, there's no need to take our word for granted, as you can try it out yourself with its 30-day money-back guarantee instead.
The best cheap VPN service
You may be drawn to Surfshark because of the price. But you'll keep using it because of the impressive feature list, easy-to-use apps, and performance that punches well above the affordability of this VPN service. Despite being a budget option, Surfshark is still one of our favorite overall services.
For starters, Surfshark takes your privacy very seriously. With their strict no-logs policy, they don't track, monitor, or store any of your online activities. Your information remains private and confidential, giving you peace of mind as you explore the online world.
▶ Try Surfshark with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Now, let's talk about one of Surfshark's standout features: unlimited simultaneous connections. Yes, you read that right. With Surfshark, you can protect all your devices at once without any limitations. Whether you're using a smartphone, tablet, computer, or even a Smart TV, Surfshark has got you covered. It's perfect for families or individuals who want to safeguard all their devices without breaking a sweat.
Surfshark earns a top spot in our secure VPN rankings, too, thanks to its industry-standard encryption and double-hop feature. Double-hop routes your traffic through an extra VPN server for an added layer of protection. During our testing, Surfshark's kill switch did let us down, but this only happened on a Windows machine when we pushed it to extreme limits.
But wait, there's more! Surfshark VPN offers a feature called CleanWeb, which blocks ads, malware, and phishing attempts, providing you with a clean and safe browsing experience. Say goodbye to annoying pop-ups and potential threats—Surfshark has your back, ensuring a smooth and secure online journey. Plus, An IP rotator feature included with its new Nexus technology will make it even more difficult to track your online activities.
Surfshark has an impressive network of more than 4,500 servers all over the world – including the UAE. That's ideal for anyone living or visiting the country. Plus, you can check out the obfuscation tool, called Camouflage mode, which masks the fact that you're using a VPN in the first place and avoids VPN blocks and bans. The No Borders feature is another handy feature that'll pair you up with a server that works best with strict network restrictions.
From Netflix and Hulu to iPlayer and Peacock, Surfshark is a great streaming VPN that unblocks all the major streaming platforms. It even does so while delivering you great speeds, too. However, it's worth noting that while Shurfshark confirmed itself to sit among the fastest VPNs when connected to WireGuard, its speeds were still below average with OpenVPN. But that's unlikely to be a huge factor for most users.
Other VPNs I've tested and recommend
Developed by the renowned team behind ProtonMail, the world's largest encrypted email service, ProtonVPN operates with the same level of commitment, expertise, and transparency. Its wide range of secure apps are, in fact, all open-source.
Over the years, the Swiss-based company developed a full privacy-first ecosystem, in fact, which includes, alongside its secure email service and VPN, an encrypted cloud drive, calendar, and password manager. Unlimited, Family, and Business subscribers can even benefit from some advanced protections now under the Proton Sentinel program, which combines the power of AI with in-depth human analysis.
▶ Try Proton VPN's unlimited free plan.
On the security front, Proton comes packed with interesting features like its ad-blocker NetShield, terrific kill switches, powerful encryption, DNS leak protection, Perfect Forward Secrecy, and built-in Tor support for accessing Onion sites. The provider even teamed up with Deutsche Welle to offer people worldwide direct access to independent news content. It also recently launched the world's first censorship-resistant CAPTCHA, allowing anyone to access its services, no matter where they are located.
Proton boasts great unlocking power, allowing you to easily access foreign libraries of the likes of Netflix, iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ during your stay in the UAE.
Proton Unlimited and Proton Family subscribers can now also enjoy the paid version of Proton Pass, its new password manager just landed for all users. However, unlike its aforementioned competitors, Proton doesn't have a 24/7 live chat just yet. This may be a problem for some customers, especially those new to the world of VPNs.
A highly customizable service, Private Internet Access (PIA) even beats Surfshark now as the cheapest service out there. But as its price got lower, PIA's network coverage did quite the opposite. Users can now choose from over 10,000 servers across 91 countries. Some of those are located in the UAE, too, allowing you to browse locally, if you wish.
The provider also upgraded from 10 to unlimited simultaneous connections, while confirming its commitment to promoting digital rights. In December 2023, PIA launched the Privacy Pass initiative to give free VPN subscriptions to the press and NGOs.
▶ Try Private Internet Access on unlimited devices.
On the privacy front, PIA offers a long list of options that will accommodate any type of user—especially those more advanced. These include an excellent kill switch, browser extensions with extra privacy perks, open-source apps, and a live chat support service.
Among our favorites, there's also its MACE™ ad and malware blocker, which keeps intrusive ads and malicious websites at bay. Say goodbye to annoying pop-ups and potential threats – PIA VPN has you covered.
Like Proton VPN, all PIA's apps are open-source. This means that anyone can independently verify the security and privacy measures implemented by the software provider. Yet, PIA's Linux VPN app beats the competition thanks to its intuitive GUI.
PIA's unblocking power impressed us during testing, too, thanks in part to its SmartDNS feature, which is designed to get around censorship and geo-restrictions that'd otherwise spoil your streaming sessions. We were able to unblock virtually all of today's most in-demand streaming platforms, including BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and even 10Play – which PIA failed to unblock last time around.
In terms of speed, PIA is still far from the fastest VPN services. We are happy, though, to see that the provider is showing commitment to transparency with an independently audited no-logging policy under its belt, and one on its security infrastructure coming soon.
How to choose the best UAE and Dubai VPN
Given the UAE's strict internet regulations and censorship practices, it's of utmost importance to opt for a VPN that offers both reliability and effectiveness in circumventing these restrictions. Let's delve into the key aspects you should consider to choose the finest VPN for the UAE.
First and foremost, prioritize security and privacy. Seek a VPN provider that employs robust encryption protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard to safeguard your online activities. Additionally, ensure that the VPN adheres to a stringent no-logs policy, guaranteeing that they do not retain any user activity or connection logs.
Next, assess the VPN's server network and connection speeds. Check if the provider has servers located within the UAE or nearby regions. Having servers in close proximity can significantly enhance connection speeds and minimize latency, resulting in a smoother browsing experience.
Since the primary objective of utilizing a VPN in the UAE is to overcome internet censorship, it is vital to select a VPN that has a proven track record of effectively bypassing these restrictions and granting access to blocked content. Watch out for services offering a reliable VPN obfuscation technology, able to bypass even the toughest restrictions.
Responsive customer support is another crucial factor. A dependable VPN service should have a prompt and helpful customer support team available 24/7 via live chat or email to assist you in case of any issues or concerns.
How we test VPN services
Our VPN team is dedicated to testing VPNs the right way. The results from our tests (speed, unblocking, and other benchmarks) vary as time goes by – which makes consistent re-resting a must.
During our tests, we put VPNs through their paces with a variety of tests designed to weed out the bad, the good, and the best of the best that we're happy to recommend.
- Feature analysis. First, we'll do our homework and gather as much data as we can about the VPN. This includes the number and location of servers, available protocols, encryption methods, and more. We use this information as a basis for comparison and to inform our tests.
- Privacy and security. A VPN's privacy policy and encryption methods are vital parts of the overall puzzle, and we take a close look at any independent audits available to us – and if there aren't any, then that's a bad sign. We also do our own proprietary practical tests to see how other security features work, like DNS leak protection and kill switches.
- Performance testing. We use a variety of devices over a 1 Gbps internet connection and measure VPN speeds at regular intervals throughout the day (and year). We'll also take a look at connection times, check out streaming performance, and do regular day-to-day browsing to get a better idea of how the service works as an everyday VPN.
- Unblocking abilities. Next, we'll investigate the VPN's unblocking power, and see how it works with global platforms. Think Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and more.
- Support and reliability. We take our investigation to the VPN's customer service, too, and check out the live chat and email support. We're looking for a quick response and effective problem-solving, and we'll take a look at the available support materials on the provider's site, too.
FAQs
Are VPNs illegal in the UAE?
Due to how heavily the UAE relies on the use of VPN in businesses, the government has not outright banned them. The use of a VPN, therefore, is not illegal.
That said, like in just about any country where a VPN is legal, that doesn't automatically give you a safety net if you're found to be committing crimes behind a VPN.
It has been stated that those using a VPN for the "purpose of committing a crime or preventing its discovery" could face a fine of up to AED2,000,000. That's about $500,000. It is worth noting that also accessing restricted content such as dating, gambling, pornography, drugs, and VoIP websites is against the law in the UAE and is sanctionable with fines.
We do not condone breaking the law, and it is at the user's discretion to determine the risk of using a VPN.
Are VPNs working in the UAE?
VPN services are facing more and more obstacles to operating within the country. And that's why the UAE government is actively blocking personal VPN usage to prevent people from bypassing the restrictions in place.
The situation is complex and ever-changing, with VPN providers doing the best they can to find new ways to escape these blocks.
The good news is that some of the VPN services listed here use obfuscated servers able to evade VPN detection. Plus, they all offer a 30-day money-back guarantee so that you can try them out without losing any money.
Why should you download a UAE VPN?
As outlined, there are a number of reasons why having a VPN for the UAE and Dubai is a good idea. With the ability to bypass internet censorship and access content, you can also use the usual messaging apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and so on, and work around Etisalat and Du's monopoly of the VoIP market.
Of course, as is a popular perk of a VPN, you can stream even more, including live sporting events, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more, when outside the country. Great for travelers and expats, especially, this allows you to access broadcasts from your home country by virtually relocating, thanks to a streaming VPN.
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
