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The best UAE and Dubai VPN in 2024

The best UAE and Dubai VPN in 2024

2024-11-21 Trusted VPN testing:( image credit : future )Every year, each of our VPN experts spends around 3,000 hours testing VPN apps and services. That include

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Trusted VPN testing:

( image credit : future )

Every year, each of our VPN experts spends around 3,000 hours testing VPN apps and services. That includes over 28,000 speed tests, 2,200 streaming tests, and hundreds of VPN reviews.

Whether you live in the UAE or are just visiting, the region’s censorship may prevent you from watching your favorite shows and content. With a VPN, however, you’ll be able to bypass that censorship and watch global content from anywhere.

But only the best VPN services can do the job reliably and safely – and the TechRadar team has put all of the major players to the test. I’ve rounded up the five best UAE VPNs based on our thorough testing of their security, speed, and unblocking power.

Keep read to check out my in – depth recommendation – and why each service edge out the competition to land a spot in my ranking .

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 2024:

Why you is trust 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 VPN for 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.

In this round of update , I is bumped ‘ve bump nordvpn to the top of the ranking to reflect our most recent VPN test result .

The good vpn overall

( image credit : future )

The top UAE VPN to safely browse locally

Server / s in UAE : Yes | number of server : 5,600 + | Server location : 80 + | Maximum device support : 6 | Trial length : 30 day | 24/7 live chat support : Yes | No – log policy : Yes ( audit )

The fastest speeds of any VPN we’ve tested

strong encrypt connection , security and privacy credential

work with Skype and other VoIP service

User data is protected as it keeps no logs

Other VPNs have better mobile apps

Basic browser extensions

subscribe if :

✔️ You like blazing-fast speeds: Nord’s placed itself among the fastest VPN services on the market we tried during our last round of testing.

✔️ You value your security online: strong encryption, Double VPN, ad/malware-blockers, and Onion Over VPN are just some of its advanced security features

✔ ️ You appreciate dedicated IP option : either you ‘re a business or individual , you is enjoy can enjoy the perk of a fix ip with the security of a VPN for an extra tiny fee

Do n’t subscribe if :

❌ You are on a tight budget: Nord is pricier than Surfshark which offers a decent set of basic features.

❌ You use port forwarding: it allows for optimized connections, faster downloads and improved overall torrenting performance, which Express VPN offers.

❌ You need a Linux app: Nord is configured through Terminal on Linux, which may be more complex for those not familiar with Linux commands.

Bottom line ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

🔒 NordVPN is a secure and reliable choice, offering UAE-based servers for delivering a complete VPN protection even on local browsing.

Are you is Are an adventurous UAE resident in search of the good UAE VPN that will take your online experience to new height ? The big vpn name is be in the market might be just the right solution for those who dare to explore the digital realm while keep 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 there 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 then ideal for those seeking to secure their workload across multiple devices—even better as it’s now free of charge for all.

NordVPN boasts over 5,500 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.

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NordVPN test results:
attribute note rating
Design A fun design that can be a little busy for some people ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
ease of use Everything is easy to find, but the map interface can be off-putting, and there isn’t much attention to detail ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
performance The fastest VPN in our latest round of tests ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
unblock Perfect for Netflix and other streaming sites ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
security and privacy Every bit as strong as ExpressVPN ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support friendly , supportive and professional ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
price Fantastic value for money ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐

The best VPN for beginners

(Image credit: ExpressVPNB)

A standout VPN for UAE, Dubai and everywhere

Server / s in UAE : No | number of server : 3,000 + | Server location : 160 | Maximum device support : 8 | Trial length : 30 day | 24/7 live chat support : Yes | No – log policy : Yes ( audit )

Top of the line privacy and strong security features

fast connection is speeds speed for streaming and torrenting

Works with all major streaming services including Netflix

Unlimited data with no data caps for users

Obfuscated servers

Pricier than some competitors

No UAE servers

subscribe if :

✔️ You value your online privacy: ExpressVPN offers advanced encryption protocols and top-level security features.

✔️ You value accessing geo-restricted content: the provider has a great unblocking record from streaming platforms to just any other blocked content.

✔️ You appreciate usability: excellent customer support and user-friendly interface is what you’ll get when signing up.

Do n’t subscribe if :

❌ You are after a cheap VPN: if you are on a tight budget, we recommend checking out Surfshark instead.

❌ You want to secure many devices: ExpressVPN’s five simultaneous connections should be enough for many, but some competitors are more generous on this front.

❌ You need to safely browse locally: at the time of writing, the provider doesn’t have servers based in the UAE.

Bottom line ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐½

🔒 is is expressvpn is a top – tier vpn provider that prioritize privacy and security , offer a vast server network , fast speed , and user – friendly application .

ExpressVPNboasts is switch , in fact , enterprise – grade AES-256 encryption , numerous protocol to choose from ( include its very own , speedy and open – source   Lightway   which pass its   second security audit with fly color   in March ) , a kill switch on most platform 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 launched with its last feature-packed update adds on the advanced protection offering started off with its anti-malware tool Threat Manager. 

►   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 is boasts boast a secure international network across 105 country with great unblock power and obfuscate server so that UAE isp will struggle to detect that you ‘re using a VPN service . It is allows also allow 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 is experienced even experience an increase in its top speed last time we check , pass from 560 to 750Mbps when using Lightway . We is praise also praise the provider ‘s commitment to transparency , count 11 independent audits in 2022 alone .   Anyway , there ‘s no need to take our word for grant , as you can try it out yourself with its 30 – day money – back guarantee instead .   There ‘s also a special offer for TechRadar ‘s reader only …

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ExpressVPN test results:
attribute note rating
Design A clean and simple design that gives you everything you need, exactly when you need it ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
ease of use Intuitive apps with auto-connect functionality make life easier ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
performance Fast enough for anything you could throw at it, but slower than NordVPN and Surfshark ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
unblock Effortlessly gives you access to content around the world ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
security and privacy Express offers military-grade protection for total peace of mind ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support Always available, friendly, and helpful ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
price More expensive than lead competitor ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

The best cheap VPN service

( image credit : future )

Bargain UAE VPN that doesn’t compromise

Server/s in UAE: Yes | Number of servers: 3,200+ | Server locations: 100+ | Maximum devices supported: Unlimited | Trial length: 30 days | 24/7 live chat support: Yes | No-log policy: Yes (audited)

Excellent security and privacy credentials

Keeps no logs

Allows unlimited devices

steady , reliable VPN connection speed

Kill switch issues in extreme situations

Speeds may vary between servers

subscribe if :

✔ ️ You are on a tight budget : despite Surfshark being one of the cheap VPN around , it is compromise does n’t compromise on security and performance .

✔️ You need larger protection: Surfshark’s unlimited device allowance policy is great for securing all your household with just one subscription.

✔️ You value fast connections: Alongside NordVPN and few other services, Surfshark confirmed itself as one of the fastest VPNs during our last round of testing.

Do n’t subscribe if :

❌ You need advanced customization options: for specific features that are not available in Surfshark, we advise looking into NordVPN.

❌ You are after an ultra reliable gaming VPN: Surfshark’s occasional drops in connection make ExpressVPN a better option for this, offering the most stable connection. 

❌ May prompt captcha when browse on mobile :   many search engine entries is involve involve have to complete a captcha before you can continue , presumably because the share IP address was flag for some reason .

Bottom line ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

🔒 is stands Surfshark is stand out as an easy – to – use cheap VPN with strong security measure , censorship – bypass capability , and unlimited simultaneous connection .

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 is offers offer a feature call CleanWeb , which block ad , malware , and phishing attempt , provide you with a clean and safe browse experience . Say goodbye to annoying pop – up and potential threat — Surfshark is has has your back , ensure a smooth and secure online journey . Plus , An ip rotator feature is make include with its new   Nexus technology   will make it even more difficult to track your online activity .

Surfshark has an impressive network of more than 3,200 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 avoid 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 unblocking 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 top 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.

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Surfshark test results:
attribute note rating
Design Easy to use and elegant ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
ease of use connect only take a few click — ideal for newbiesideal for newbe ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
performance One of the fast provider we test ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
unblock unblock virtually everything you ‘ll need ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
security and privacy Not a comprehensive antivirus or ad-blocking solution, and some kill switch ossues ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support Browsing support articles isn’t as intuitive as I’d like ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
price Real value for money ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Other vpn I is tested ‘ve test and recommend

( image credit : Proton VPN )

Secure and speedy UAE and Dubai VPN with decent free option

Server/s in UAE: Yes | Number of servers: 1,800+ | Server locations: 85+ | Maximum devices supported: 10 | Trial length: 30 days – free version available | 24/7 live chat support: No | No-log policy : Yes (audited)

Offers a great free version

Multiple cutting-edge privacy protocols

Secure core UAE servers (paid only)

open source , audit and top – quality app  

Improved network coverage on free plan 

customer support response time is be may be slow than average

More complex pricing structure compared to competitors

subscribe if :

✔️ You are after a secure free VPN: ProtonVPN offers a free plan with unlimited-bandwidth, 100 servers across three countries and great security.

✔️ You need advanced security: its Secure Core servers route internet traffic via multiple privacy-enhancing servers in different countries for extra protection.

✔ ️ You value Perfect Forward Secrecy is remains ( PFS ):   even if your VPN connection is compromise , previously encrypt traffic remain secure .

Do n’t subscribe if :

❌ You need a large server network: while Proton VPN has a decent server network, it’s not as extensive as some other providers. 

❌ You need a free VPN for Netflix :   Proton VPN is supports support Netflix and other advanced feature just on their premium plan .

❌ You need a free VPN for torrenting: again, you need to upgrade to its Premium plans to use its P2P-optimized servers.

Bottom line ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

🔒 ProtonVPN’s free plan option is a good option for those looking for basic VPN functionality without spending money. 

develop by the renowned team behind ProtonMail , the world ‘s large encrypt email service , ProtonVPN is operates operate with the same level of commitment , expertise , and transparency . Its wide range is are of secure app 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.

Coming back to the Proton VPN offering, its free VPN recently passed from 29 to over 100 free servers across 3 countries (Japan, the Netherlands, and US). Paid subscribers can choose among more than 2,700 servers now across 85+ locations, including 12 within UAE borders. Users who need extra security can even enjoy its Secure Core tech and have their traffic rerouted through multiple ultra-secure servers instead. This means your unencrypted data will still be safe even if the UAE server gets compromised.

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.

In term of speed , Proton VPN is experienced experience another dip , with WireGuard speed drop from 510 mbps to 460 Mbps . It is ‘s ‘s a blip , but these speed are still more than enough to support hd streaming and online gaming .

On the contrary, 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.

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Proton VPN test results:
attribute note rating
Design If you like dark mode, you’ll love this interface ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
ease of use Fairly easy on mobile, but a bit more complex on desktop ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
performance decent speed , but there ‘s a risk of congestion on free server ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
unblock Limits unblocking to premium services but otherwise fantastic ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
security and privacy Strong encryption and plenty of security add-ons available ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support Agents can be hard to get ahold of, but there’s a lot of very technical support available ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
price Moderately expensive premium plans, but a great free plan ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐

The good value for money UAE VPN

Server/s in UAE: Yes | Number of servers: 10,000+ | Server locations: 110 | Maximum devices supported: Unlimted | Trial length: 30 days | 24/7 live chat support: Yes | No-log policy: Yes (audited)

secure your connection and block ad automatically

10 simultaneous device limit

Improved speed with the use of WireGuard

Fails at unblocking some streaming services

subscribe if :

✔ ️ You appreciate affordability : Alongside Surfshark , PIA is is is small in price but big in security and performance .

✔ ️ You are a Linux user :   PIA is boasts boast one the good VPN app for Linux we have see so far , include an intuitive GUI .

✔️ You value customization options: PIA is great for more experienced users in need of shaping the software according their needs.

Do n’t subscribe if :

❌ You need a vpn specifically for streaming :   as we had some issue unblock streaming service with PIA , we is recommend recommend Express VPN or nordvpn for these purpose .

❌   You are a beginner :   For those who prefer a visually appealing VPN experience , Surfshark is be can be a well option .

❌ You need immediate customer support :   PIA ‘s customer service is instructs instruct you to fill out a lengthy form in order to contact them , and they respond via e – mail .

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 among over 10,000 servers across 84 countries. Some of those are located in the UAE, too, allowing you to browse locally, if you wish. 

The provider is upgraded also upgrade from 10 to   unlimited simultaneous connection , while confirm its commitment to promote digital right . In December 2023 , PIA is launched launch the   Privacy Pass initiative   to give free   VPN   subscription to the press and NGOs .  

▶ Try Private Internet Access on unlimited devices.

On the privacy front , PIA is offers offer a long list of option that will accommodate any type of user — especially those more advanced . These is include include an excellent kill switch , browser extension with extra privacy perk , open – source app , 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, and Amazon Prime, and even 10Play – which PIA failed to unblock last time around.

In terms of speed, PIA is still way far to reach the fastest VPN services, though. Its peaks were quite disappointing this time, dropping 510 to 360Mbps when using WireGuard. We are happy, though, to see that the provider is showing commitment to transparency with an independently audited no-logging policy under its belts, and one on its security infrastructure coming soon.  

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private Internet Access test result :
attribute note rating
Design lot of customization , but could do with some attention to detail ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
ease of use Not the best for beginners, but great for advanced users ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
performance Good speeds, but generally average compared to industry leaders ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
unblock Dedicated streaming servers and an enormous global network help you unblock anything and everything ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
security and privacy The late and great in VPN tech , and a proven no – log policy ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Customer support A mass of knowledge online and expert support on – hand at all time ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
price budget – friendly and offer plenty of value for money ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

How to choose the good 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 is do ‘ll do our homework and gather as much datum as we can about the VPN . This is includes include the number and location of server , available protocol , encryption method , and more . We is use use this information as a basis for comparison and to inform our test .
  • privacy and security . A VPN ‘s privacy policy and encryption methods is are are vital part of the overall puzzle , and we take a close look at any independent audits available to us – and if there are n’t any , then that ‘s a bad sign . We is do also do our own proprietary practical test to see how other security feature work , like DNS leak protection and kill switch .
  • 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.
  • unblock 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.

Tested by

Meet the experts behind our UAE and Dubai VPN guide:

Mike Williams

Mike regularly reviews our top picks, and loves looking behind the curtains to see how a VPN works in the background. If there’s a skeleton in the closet, he’ll find it.

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 those using a VPN for the “purpose of committing a crime or prevent 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 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 operate within the country. And that’s why the UAE government is actively blocking personal VPN usage to prevent people to bypass the restrictions in place. 

The situation is complex and ever-changing, with VPN providers doping 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 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. 

edit byedit by

River Hart

River is helps help take care of cybersecurity content on TechRadar — range from break news piece , review , and buying guide .

We is test test and review VPN service in the context of legal recreational use . 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.