5 Best VPNs for UAE That Work in 2024: Fast & Safe

Not only does the UAE highly restrict its internet, but its online surveillance practices are highly concerning. The country blocks apps like WhatsApp and Skype, so it’s best to install a VPN before setting foot. If you get caught using a VPN to access illegal sites, it can result in a $500,000 fine or jail time. So, it’s advised to use VPNs legally.

My team and I tested 100+ services and shortlisted the best VPNs for the UAE. They all have world-class security features and a global server network that works well with social media and streaming sites. But most importantly, they’re safe to use in the UAE.

My favorite VPN for the UAE is ExpressVPN, as its fast speeds, military-grade encryption, and server network make it well-rounded. It even comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it without any risk. If it’s not for you, you can ask for a refund. 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.

Get The Best VPN for the UAE Today

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for the UAE

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 the UAE – Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

You might not have access to your favorite content in the UAE as the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA) blocks websites and services deemed inappropriate. This even includes Wikipedia articles and politically sensitive information.

Every VPN on my list comes with state-of-the-art security features that protect your data in the UAE. You can also use them to access blocked sites and conceal your online activity safely. And since they all come with a money-back guarantee, you can try them without risk.

1.ExpressVPN — Excellent Security Features That Always Keep You Safe in the UAE

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 several world-class security features that keep you safe in the UAE. Its military-grade encryption makes your connection impenetrable, while its kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection prevent any accidental exposure of your data. No DNS/IP leaks were detected when I tested its US servers on ipleak.net.

For privacy, ExpressVPN only uses RAM-based servers that wipe all your data after a reboot. This and its no-logs policy ensure ExpressVPN won’t record your data anywhere. It also hides your IP address to conceal your location and identity, while its home base is in the British Virgin Islands, which is outside the 14 Eyes Alliance. It means it can't be subjected to any data retention laws if authorities investigate it.

The extensive network across 105 countries helps you find a reliable nearby server anywhere, including the UAE. This even includes obfuscated servers that can get around firewalls. While connected to the Egypt server, I safely accessed my Skype account.

Its ultra-fast speeds make it ideal for streaming content in UHD. During my speed tests, my download speed averaged 47.6Mbps. Considering you only need 25Mbps to stream shows in Ultra HD, this was highly sufficient. This helps avoid buffering issues while watching local shows.

The only downside to ExpressVPN is its expensive pricing plans. The long-term plans are the cheapest and start at $4.99/month. But by going to its website, you can take advantage of some deals and save. I even got my first 2 months for free upon signing up.

If you’re undecided, you can test all of ExpressVPN’s features risk-free since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. I asked a live chat representative to cancel my subscription after 28 days to see if it was trustworthy. After asking for my cancelation reason, she proceeded with my request, and I got my money back after 3 business days.

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Reliable Gaming and Torrenting in the UAE

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost’s server network of 11,690 servers worldwide includes optimized servers for streaming and downloading. These servers are labeled by streaming site and designed to provide reliable access to a specific site. When I tested its US Netflix and Disney+ servers, I accessed both platforms without problems and streamed shows for extended periods. So, you won’t waste any time trying to bypass geoblocks.

CyberGhost has a vast server network of 11,690 servers worldwide, including 12 in the UAE. Some nearby servers (for example, in Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco) are optimized for downloading. When testing the Egypt server, I downloaded a 2GB file without slowdowns. If you use CyberGhost on Windows, you can also choose special servers for reliable online gaming.

You can stream local content smoothly, thanks to CyberGhost’s fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth. When I tested 4 of its UAE servers, I recorded an average download speed of 46.2 Mbps.

For security, CyberGhost has a range of features that keep you well-protected. In addition to its military-grade encryption, it has its own ad and malware blocker that keeps you safe from malicious attacks. Plus, its kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection stop your personal information from being leaked accidentally. In short, your data will be in safe hands while you’re in the UAE.

You need to be mindful of CyberGhost’s short-term plans, which tend to be quite expensive. Plus, they come with a shortened money-back guarantee (14 days vs. 45). But its yearly plans are more affordable, with the cheapest option starting from 45. You can also add a dedicated IP address as an extra.

By subscribing to a long-term plan, you can use CyberGhost’s generous 45-day money-back guarantee and try everything it offers for free for 45 days. I didn't experience any issues getting my money back, as all I had to do was ask them to cancel my subscription on live chat. After 3 business days, my money was in my bank account.

3. PIA — Massive Server Network for Uninterrupted Browsing in the UAE

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

Private Internet Access (PIA) has a massive server network of 29,650 servers in 91 countries, letting you find a fast server near your location. While testing PIA’s servers, I never encountered network congestion. There were no problems watching Dubai TV buffer-free using a local UAE server, either.

It has robust security features to keep you safe in the UAE. You can choose between AES-128 and 256-bit encryption and from different protocols to optimize your connection for speed and security. My favorite protocol is WireGuard, as it's very fast but still secure. Plus, its kill switch acts as your last line of defense if your internet disconnects suddenly.

You can balance speeds and security with Private Internet Access

You can enjoy watching your favorite local shows in HD without any interruptions, as PIA can produce fast and reliable speeds. During my speed tests, my download speed never went below 45.9Mbps on the UAE servers. And because it provides unlimited bandwidth, you can stream as much as you want.

A concern of PIA is its US home base, which is at the heart of the 5 Eyes Alliance. However, its no-logs policy has been independently audited, which proves that it doesn’t collect any data.

When looking at its pricing plans, I found its 3-year plan to be the most affordable at $2.03/month. It has all the same features as the other plans and provides greater savings over the long term.

There’s no need to immediately commit to a long-term plan, as you can test PIA completely free by taking advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee. I wanted to see if it was legitimate, so I asked them to cancel my subscription via live chat. After asking about my experience, the agent proceeded with my request, and I was fully refunded in 4 business days.

4. IPVanish — Connect as Many Devices as You Want Using One Subscription

Works With:

ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ More

Try IPVanish VPN >

www.ipvanish.com

IPVanish lets you connect any number of devices simultaneously under 1 subscription. To test this feature, I connected my MacBook Pro, Android tablet, smartphone, and Windows desktop while streaming local Netflix and Abu Dhabi TV from Dubai. It felt no different from having 1 device connected the entire time as everything ran smoothly.

This VPN has reliable servers across 130 countries that work with many popular sites and apps. Connecting to a local UAE server allowed me to watch Abu Dhabi TV and MBC buffer-free while in the UAE. I just clicked the Connect button to find the fastest local server.

There’s no way for unwanted third parties to obtain your personal data, thanks to IPVanish’s reliable security features. Its AES-256 bit encryption makes it impossible to intercept your connection, while its DNS/IP leak protection prevents any accidental exposure of your data. In short, your connection will be protected by the highest standards.

IPVanish makes sure you data won’t be revealed accidentally

No one will see what you do online, too, as IPVanish adheres to a strict no-logs policy. This ensures that your online behavior won’t be recorded or shared. Another benefit is that it owns its entire server network, which means third parties can’t compromise your privacy.

I was disappointed to see that IPVanish doesn’t accept any cryptocurrency payments. However, it’s possible to pay by credit card, online gift card, and PayPal. The long-term plans are the most affordable, with the cheapest one starting at $2.19/month.

If you’re still on the fence, then you can try IPVanish for free before committing to an ongoing subscription because it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. Getting my money back was super easy, too, as I just had to log into my account and request a cancelation. 2 clicks and 4 business days later, I got all my money back.

5. PrivateVPN — User-Friendly Apps That are Great for Beginners

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try PrivateVPN >

www.privatevpn.com

PriavteVPN is one of the easiest VPNs to use. Its apps are intuitive and let you connect to any server in a couple of clicks. Best of all, no configuration is necessary. And for experienced users, it has an advanced mode that lets you customize your setting to your liking. Therefore, you can stay protected in the UAE without any technical knowledge.

While in the UAE, you can visit local sites and watch streaming platforms via a private nearby server. Additionally, its StealthMode feature scrambles your data to avoid monitoring and speed reduction on some WiFi networks.

PrivateVPN can reliably get past online restrictions

Its powerful security and privacy features make it impossible for unwanted parties to see your online data and activity. The military-grade encryption makes your data unreadable, while its no logs policy ensures that it won’t record your browsing behavior. There’s also the option to choose from advanced protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and PPTP, so you can make the most out of speed and security.

One minor drawback is a relatively smaller server network compared to other VPNs. Still, PrivateVPN’s network works well with most websites. Also, I never encountered overcrowded servers.

The plan I recommend is its 2-year plan, which is the cheapest at $2/month. It comes with all the same features as the short-term plans but is cheaper in the long run.

There’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee, which lets you test all of PrivateVPN’s features for free. I wanted to test this policy, so I asked them to cancel my subscription through live chat. After telling them that it wasn't for me, they went ahead with my request, and I was refunded after 4 business 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 the UAE

The VPNs that made it on my shortlist were selected on the following criteria. The main aspects I looked out for were security features, global server networks, and fast speeds. Feel free to use this checklist to help make an informed decision:

• Robust security features — Only select VPNs with top-notch security features, synch as AES-256 bit encryption, a kill switch, DNS/IP leak protection, and advanced protocols. This keeps you safe from hackers and other malicious parties in the UAE.
• Global server network — Get a VPN that has servers in the UAE as well as overseas locations. If it has no UAE servers, then make sure it has some in nearby locations.
• Strict no-logs policy — Always go for a VPN that adheres to a strict no-logs policy that’s been independently audited. This ensures that no one can track your online behavior.
• Fast speeds — Being able to stream content in Ultra HD should be the bare requirement for VPN speeds. Even though VPNs slow your connection, a good one will make the drop barely noticeable.
• Ease of use — It’s best to get a VPN that has a user-friendly app that is easy to download and install. Additionally, you should be able to use it on most devices.
• Support channels — If you ever need help, then there should be various ways to contact your VPN for support. These include live chat, email, phone, and a comprehensive FAQ page.

FAQs on Using a VPN for the UAE

Are VPNs legal in the UAE?

It’s legal to have a VPN installed on your devices in the UAE, but it’s illegal to use it for criminal purposes. According to its laws, you can face jail time or be fined up to $500,000 for using a false IP address to conduct illegal activities. The main thing is to follow the rules set out by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, although its guidelines are always changing.

It’s also unclear whether the UAE government targets tourists more than UAE citizens. For this reason, I recommend you get a trustworthy VPN that’s proven to work in the UAE, so you don't risk getting into trouble.

How can I use a VPN in the UAE?

Most VPN websites are blocked in the UAE. Before arriving in the country, you should download and install a VPN on your devices. This helps you connect to a private VPN server to safeguard your online activities in the UAE. To access your favorite news sites on restrictive WiFi networks, enable obfuscation tech that makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet activity.

Is using WhatsApp and other VoIP services in the UAE safe?

As long as you use a reliable VPN that’s proven to work in the UAE, then accessing WhatsApp and other VoIP services is safe. The UAE government is more concerned with people using VPNs for illegal purposes, instead of unblocking restricted sites. A lot of reports that claim people have gotten into trouble for using a VPN are misleading, too. But the situation in the UAE is constantly changing, so make sure you stay on top of the changes.

Why do I need to use a VPN in the UAE?

You need a VPN for the UAE to access geo-restricted websites, online bank accounts, and use VoIP services to keep in touch with people overseas. Just make sure you download and install a VPN before setting foot in the country because most VPN websites are blocked there. A VPN also protects your data and conceals your activity from unwanted third parties, keeping you private. But keep in mind that the UAE has some harsh penalties for people that use VPNs unlawfully, so always abide by the law when possible.

Which VPNs have servers in the UAE?

CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, IPVanish, and PrivateVPN offer UAE servers. ExpressVPN has ample servers in nearby countries like Egypt. No matter which one you choose, the best VPNs for the UAE keep your web activities and location confidential.

Can I use a free VPN in the UAE?

There are huge risks when using a free VPN in the UAE, so I would strongly advise against it. According to local laws, using a VPN to access illegal websites can result in heft fines and even jail time. Consequently, the UAE government and ISPs crack down on VPNs and store VPN IP addresses. Most of them belong to free VPNs.

Free VPNs also lack reliable security features and are known to collect personal information, which they sell to advertisers to make a profit. And since they have small server networks, you’ll probably connect to an overcrowded server that produces slow speeds. With all these negatives, it’s much better to get a trustworthy VPN like ExpressVPN that comes with a money-back guarantee, which lets you use it risk-free for a certain amount of time.

Get a VPN for the UAE Now

The UAE is notorious for its internet restrictions, which means you run the risk of harsh punishments by not complying. The best way to use the internet safely and access blocked websites is to use a trustworthy VPN. It encrypts your connection and replaces your IP address, so you can safely access services like WhatsApp and Skype.

The VPN I recommend for the UAE is ExpressVPN. Its world-class security features, no-logs policy, and global server network keep you well-protected online. And since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try all of its features risk-free. Therefore, you can get your money back if you don’t like it.

To summarize, the best VPNs for the UAE are…

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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