5 Best VPNs for Dubai 2024: Security, Streaming & Speed

The UAE government has one of the world's most restrictive internet policies, and online surveillance remains a concern. Various apps, like Skype, Zoom, and WhatsApp, are blocked. To ensure I can safely access websites and protect my information in Dubai, I always use a VPN.

My team and I tested 90+ VPNs to find the best ones for Dubai. My shortlisted VPNs come with the latest security features and have a global network of fast servers. These VPNs have fast global server networks that work well with VoIP services. They also let you securely access your accounts from anywhere. Plus, they have servers in or near the UAE, allowing secure access to local services without sacrificing your speeds.

ExpressVPN is my top choice. It is the complete package, offering military-grade encryption and an ultra-fast global network of servers. The VPN even comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, you can try ExpressVPN for Dubai with no financial risk. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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Editor’s note: There are laws regarding VPN use in the UAE. The VPNs we recommend all follow robust no-logs policies, so they don’t monitor or store your online activities. This means it’s your responsibility to use a VPN within the bounds of the law. The team at vpnMentor doesn't condone any activities that go against these rules and regulations, including copyright law.

Short on Time? Here Are the 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: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

The Best VPNs for Dubai — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) and significant telecom operators block content that is seen as inappropriate — even Wikipedia articles and Israeli websites. All my shortlisted VPNs are extremely reliable in terms of speed and secure access to sites from anywhere in Dubai. They all have excellent customer support and can be used on multiple devices. On top of that, these VPNs come with a money-back guarantee so that you can try them without risk.

1. ExpressVPN — Top Security Features for Maximum Online Protection in Dubai

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested November 2024

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN has exceptional security and privacy tools to keep you safe online in Dubai. It’s based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands (outside the intelligence-sharing agreement of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance) and has a strict no-logs policy. The VPN also uses RAM-only servers (TrustedServer technology) that wipe your data every time the system reboots. So, your personal information can’t be stored or shared with anyone.

Your online activity and personal data are protected. Its military-grade AES 256-bit encryption with multiple security protocols (including Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPsec) hides your traffic from prying eyes. With ExpressVPN's default setting, you'll be using obfuscated traffic which provides an even higher level of privacy when browsing online.

Although I never experienced a connection drop while testing ExpressVPN, it offers a kill switch (Network Lock). This feature automatically terminates your internet session if the VPN gets disconnected. On top of that, the VPN protects you against any DNS, IPV6, and WebRTC leaks that could expose your location, so you’re completely safe online.

It has a vast server network that makes it possible to securely access websites and services from anywhere. All the servers we tested from the UK are perfectly reliable — we managed to use VoIP services like Skype and Zoom every time. The VPN is also great for streaming, and we had no issues with buffering. We were able to watch Abu Dhabi TV and Dubai TV in HD when connected to a server in Egypt.

Speeds are lightning-fast, giving you buffer-free streaming and quick downloads. With its Smart Location feature, the VPN chooses the best server for you based on your actual location. I found its Lightway protocol perfect for torrenting as it offers robust protection without slowdowns. You can also stream and torrent without worrying about data caps, as ExpressVPN has unlimited bandwidth.

There are beginner-friendly desktop and mobile apps with an intuitive interface. Thanks to MediaStreamer (ExpressVPN's Smart DNS feature), you can even watch movies and shows on devices that aren't usually compatible with a VPN, like gaming consoles.

Prices are slightly more expensive than I’d like, but ExpressVPN often offers generous discounts. I recommend subscribing to its 12-month plan as it’s the cheapest option and comes with all the same features. I got an annual plan for only $4.99/month, plus 3 months free.

No need to worry about committing to a longer subscription right away. You can try ExpressVPN for Dubai risk-free, as it’s backed with a 30-day money-back guarantee. I checked, and the refund process is simple. I exchanged a few messages with a support agent via live chat (available 24/7), and my PayPal account was refunded within 2 days.

2. IPVanish — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Stay Safe on All Your Devices in Dubai

Works With:

ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ More

Try IPVanish VPN >

www.ipvanish.com

IPVanish allows Unlimited simultaneous connections with one account, offering great value. In my IPVanish tests, I connected multiple devices (including various laptops, Smartphones, and Smart TVs) at once and didn't experience any drop in performance. The VPN also offers easy-to-use apps for all major operating systems, so it’s easy to secure all your devices.

Your security is kept at the highest standards using AES 256-bit encryption. I felt safe knowing cyber criminals couldn't get hold of my online information. Plus, Perfect Forward Secrecy (which continuously changes your private keys) ensures your current and future traffic is protected, even if past sessions somehow got hacked.

Even though IPVanish is based in the US (part of the 5 Eyes Alliance), your data won’t be compromised. I read the VPN’s no-logs policy, and it clearly states your sensitive data won’t be stored or shared. All servers are managed in-house, thus avoiding any third-party meddling. Moreover, DNS leak protection and an automatic kill switch will prevent any accidental data exposure.

Servers are spread across 130 countries (including Dubai), so you can easily find a fast nearby server to get the best speeds. We had no issues safely accessing our Dubai Bank accounts and shopping sites. Additionally, all servers are P2P-friendly, with unlimited bandwidth for easy torrenting. Speed isn’t a problem, either. By simply clicking the Connect button, you’re automatically connected to the best available server for your current location.

One minor con with IPVanish is that it doesn't work with many streaming services. I recommend activating the Scramble feature when using the OpenVPN protocol. It's an effective way to disguise your VPN traffic as a regular activity. So you have a better chance of bypassing strict firewalls and VPN blocks.

You can get a 12-month IPVanish subscription for as low as $2.19/month. I find this option the best, as it costs less than the short-term plans but includes the same feature. For a small additional fee, you can also get encrypted cloud storage. I tested it — it’s great for safely storing your files without worrying about data theft.

If you’re not completely happy with IPVanish, you can apply for a refund, as it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. I logged in and completed a few quick steps on the VPN’s website and canceled my subscription that way (24/7 chat and email are also available). The entire process was quick and effortless, and I received the refund on my bank account in 5 days.

3. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Streaming, Torrenting, or Gaming in Dubai

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost has optimized servers for easy streaming, gaming, and torrenting. I don’t need to waste time searching through its 11,690 servers to find one that works — there’s a list of specialized servers labeled with the activity they’re designed for. So you can quickly connect to one that’s optimized for whatever you want to do online. This makes it easy to stream HD content, download at fast speeds, and game lag-free from anywhere.

It’s very fast and offers unlimited bandwidth, letting you stream as much as you like in smooth UHD. I tested CyberGhost’s 12 servers in Dubai and got an average of 55Mbps (megabits per second) download speed. There were never any delays connecting or significant slowdowns. You can stream buffer-free and game without lag.

The VPN has a myriad of user-friendly security features to maintain your privacy. For example, enable the “Block content” option to block domains used for ads, malware, and trackers. There’s also a kill switch and DNS/IPv6 leak protection — I detected no leaks while testing the VPN. Additionally, its WiFi protection automatically connects you to the VPN whenever it detects a new WiFi network.

I like that CyberGhost is based in privacy-friendly Romania (outside the 5/9/14-Eyes Alliance) and follows a strict no-logs policy. So, you can be sure your data remains private. It also uses AES 256-bit encryption and the most advanced security protocols, like OpenVPN and WireGuard. These measures are perfect for protecting your data in Dubai.

CyberGhost's short-term plans are a bit expensive. However, you can get a 2-year plan at just $2.03/month. You also have the option to upgrade to its NoSpy servers for a small surcharge. This gives you an additional layer of security, as these servers are controlled and managed exclusively by the VPN team.

If you subscribe to a long-term plan, you also get an extended money-back guarantee so that you can use CyberGhost free for 45 days. I had no issues getting my money back. I simply ended my subscription via email and then contacted the 24/7 live chat support to confirm the refund. My PayPal account was refunded in 5 days without complications.

4. Private Internet Access — Huge Network Makes It Easy to Find a Fast Nearby Server

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

Private Internet Access (PIA) has an impressive network of 29,650 servers spread around the globe. With the VPN’s virtual servers in the UAE, it’s possible to access Abu Dhabi TV, Dubai TV, or MBC in HD from anywhere. Our global team of testers found that PIA’s servers also work well with VoIP services and global streaming platforms.

Speeds are consistently fast enough for uninterrupted streaming, browsing, and torrenting. PIA regularly expands and upgrades its server infrastructure, so you can always find the best server and avoid overcrowding. I tested PIA’s servers in Dubai and got an average of 35 Mbps. The VPN also allows P2P sharing on its servers and doesn’t restrict bandwidth, so you can file-share without limits.

PIA has good privacy features to bolster your online safety in Dubai. It can be easily customized to suit your required level of protection. The VPN offers AES 128-bit and AES 256-bit encryption and numerous security protocols (including OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, IKEv2, and WireGuard). I recommend OpenVPN for its gold-standard security, but Wireguard is slightly faster if streaming is your primary goal.

The user-friendly apps include DNS leak protection and a kill switch to protect you from accidental data exposure. Plus, its MACE feature effectively prevents annoying pop-ups, as well as malware and trackers.

Despite being located in the US, which is part of the 5 Eyes Alliance, PIA's robust no-logs policy gave me peace of mind that my browsing history would remain confidential. With this VPN, you can be certain that your data is entirely secure and protected from third-party access.

If you opt for a 3-year subscription, you can get PIA for only $2.03/month. Choosing a longer-term plan is usually cheaper and makes sense since it offers the same features as monthly subscriptions.

After trying its features, I canceled my PIA subscription via the website to see how its 30-day money-back guarantee holds up. Almost immediately, I received an email confirmation. My refund was processed, no-questions-asked. The money reached my bank account within 5 days.

5. PrivateVPN — User-Friendly Apps That Are Great if You're New to VPNs

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try PrivateVPN >

www.privatevpn.com

PrivateVPN is user-friendly, and it even provides a complimentary remote installation service to handle the VPN setup for you. It features two operational modes — one for novices and another for seasoned users. I immediately utilized the simple mode, which doesn't necessitate any configuration. However, if you prefer to customize the settings based on your requirements, the advanced mode is your ideal choice. Whichever mode you choose, you can maintain your security in Dubai irrespective of your VPN knowledge level.

Thanks to advanced security measures, your sensitive information is protected from prying eyes. I didn't detect any leaks while testing PrivateVPN — the DNS/IPv6 leak protection and the kill switch work well. Using the advanced mode, I could choose between encryption levels (AES 128-bit or AES 256-bit) and multiple security protocols (OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, IKEv2, and IPSec). The VPN doesn’t limit your bandwidth and obfuscates your traffic through its Stealth VPN feature, so you can torrent safely.

Although the VPN has a smaller network than ExpressVPN and PIA, servers are spread across 63 countries. During our tests, we found that servers worked extremely well with our video-calling apps. PrivateVPN can also offer you a Dubai IP address to watch local TV without buffering (like Abu Dhabi TV and MBC) securely from anywhere.

I recommend subscribing to the 2-year plan. You can get PrivateVPN for only $2/month, and it comes with all the same features as the more expensive short-term options.

Additionally, PrivateVPN comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee so that you can try it risk-free. I tested the refund policy by canceling via live chat — the process was straightforward, and my money was back in my bank account after 7 days.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Dubai

All my shortlisted VPNs had to meet specific testing criteria to ensure they were highly secure and offered excellent speeds in Dubai. However, if you want to do your own research, you might want to consider the following:

• Powerful security features — Only VPNs that use top-notch security features, like AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy, can sufficiently protect your data against online threats in Dubai.
• A worldwide network — Look for a VPN with a large global network for secure browsing. To watch Dubai TV safely in HD from anywhere, look for servers in Dubai.
• Fast server speeds — Nobody likes buffering and lag, so make sure the VPN you choose keeps you safe online without compromising your connection speeds.
• Ease of use — A good VPN is suitable for beginners and advanced users alike. All the VPNs on this list are easy to install and set up and have a user-friendly, intuitive interface.
• Money-back guarantee — Choose a VPN with a trustworthy refund policy, so you can get your money back if it doesn't work out.

FAQs on Using a VPN for Dubai

Why do you need a VPN in the UAE?

The UAE’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) closely monitors the internet and mandates ISPs to block any content that goes against the country’s morality laws. It also blocks a variety of VoIP services under these same laws. The VPNs on this list all offer robust security features that help protect your data from snoops.

However, be aware that using a VPN to access banned services could result in legal penalties. Always check local legislation before using a VPN. We do not condone using a VPN in a way that goes against the law.

Are VPNs legal in Dubai?

VPN use is a bit of a grey area in Dubai. It’s generally considered legal as long as you use it according to the rules set out by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority — don’t use a VPN to commit a crime or break any “ethics and morality” laws. If you’re not sure, I suggest you do some research and check out local laws to ensure you don’t break any rules.

Also, many VPN websites within the UAE are blocked. So, if you’re traveling to Dubai, I recommend you download and install your VPN before visiting the country.

Can I use a free VPN for Dubai?

Yes, you can use a free VPN in Dubai, but it's not recommended. A much safer option is to use a low-cost premium VPN that offers robust security features and a money-back guarantee, so you can try it with confidence.

Free VPNs are unreliable and can compromise your data by embedding malware or tracking software in their apps. There have also been cases of free VPNs selling user data to third parties. Additionally, many limit their security features, speed, and servers so that you're forced to upgrade to their paid version, which can end up costing you more in the long run.

Which VPNs should I avoid in Dubai?

There are many VPNs you should stay away from, including most free VPNs. If you want to protect your data you might want to consider a VPN with robust security features, like ExpressVPN.

Many VPNs simply don’t work in the UAE or are known for using shady practices, like selling user data to advertisers. Here are a few VPNs to avoid in Dubai:

• Hola VPN — It’s a P2P service, not a real VPN. So, when you connect to a server in the US, you’ll be using an IP address of a real US person. Likewise, your IP can be used by someone else, possibly for an illegal purpose.
• Psiphon — Its privacy policy openly states that the VPN sells your data to advertisers.
• Betternet — Its apps are filled with ads and annoying pop-ups. This is not only annoying, but it can also slow down your connection.

Which VPN is the best for accessing VoIP services in the UAE?

Some but not all VoIP services are banned, so ensure you check local laws to ensure you don’t accidentally break the law. Every VPN on this list worked well with all the VoIP services my team and I tried, but note that not all of these may be legal in the UAE.

The Bottom Line

To avoid delays and connection monitoring while online in Dubai, it’s a good idea to get a VPN. This simple app can protect your privacy, allowing you to browse, stream, game, and more without worrying about snoops intercepting your data.

My top recommendation for Dubai is ExpressVPN. It uses the most advanced security tools to protect your data and has a global network of fast servers. Plus, we found it can securely access Dubai TV and other local streaming services from anywhere. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free.

To summarize, here are the best VPNs for Dubai

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: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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