Is Discord Banned in the UAE? How To Use It Safely in 2025

The UAE restricts the use of Discord due to the country's strict VoIP regulations. Since 2016, Discord functionalities like voice chat, video calls, and screen sharing have been blocked (Freedom House, 2023)¹. Additionally, some ISPs, like Etisalat, have implemented a complete ban on the platform.

According to Unitedworldtelecom.com, VoIP blocks started in 1999, with over 20 countries banning or restricting VoIP calls². However, a VPN that encrypts data can securely access all Discord features from anywhere. A virtual private network (VPN) masks your VoIP traffic and replaces your IP address, so you can safely use Discord's voice channels, video calls, and messaging features without detection.

My team and I evaluated over 40 VPNs. ExpressVPN consistently provided the most reliable way to get Discord working in the UAE. Its high-speed servers provide smooth voice calls without lag, while its in-built obfuscation conceals that you're using a VPN. ExpressVPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it with Discord risk-free. 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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Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Discord in 2025

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.

How To Use Discord in the UAE — Step-By-Step Guide

According to Analyzify, Discord has over 154 million active users worldwide, so its restriction in the UAE has upset many gamers³. So, while you may be able to access some Discord features in the UAE, it’s usually not possible to join voice chats, make group calls, or send voice messages.

Some ISPs, such as Etisalat and DU, block the platform entirely. Discord is also banned in countries like Turkey, Russia, China, Iran, Oman, and North Korea.

ISPs in the UAE employ DNS filtering techniques to restrict access to certain Discord features, like voice chat. When you attempt to use the platform, they intercept your request and deny access. However, a premium VPN with strong obfuscation capabilities makes it possible to use Discord safely from anywhere. Since VPN traffic gets masked as regular internet traffic, it can’t be detected and blocked.

1. Download a VPN

Choose a VPN with robust security features and fast speeds that can handle VoIP traffic. I recommend ExpressVPN. Its automatic obfuscation is enabled on all servers to effectively disguise VPN use, while its fast speeds deliver high-quality voice and video calls.

You can install ExpressVPN on your device in under 2 minutes

2. Connect to a Server

Select a server in a different location from the UAE. For the best performance, pick one close to you. The VPN's encryption will protect your Discord traffic from monitoring while preventing ISP bandwidth throttling.

You can use the search bar to find a specific server quickly

3. Launch Discord

Open Discord and log in to your account, or create one if you're new to the platform. The registration process is straightforward — just provide an email address and choose a username. If you're using Discord's mobile app, download it from your device's app store before connecting to the VPN.

Discord's desktop and mobile apps work seamlessly with VPNs

4. Configure Discord Settings

Optimize your Discord voice settings for the best call quality. Under Voice & Video settings, adjust the input sensitivity and enable noise suppression. These tweaks help maintain clear communication even when using a VPN connection.

For added privacy, review Discord's privacy settings to control who can contact you

5. Start Calling Using Discord

You can now safely use all Discord features, including voice channels, video calls, and screen sharing. Keep the VPN connected while using Discord to maintain your privacy and prevent connection drops. If you experience any lag, try switching to a different nearby server location.

Clicking the star icon next to the server will bookmark it for faster access

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.

Best VPNs to Access Discord From Anywhere in 2025

The best Discord VPNs provide reliable and secure use in the UAE. We tested the VPNs below extensively for their ability to work well with Discord calls and seeing other people stream. All my listed VPNs can handle VoIP traffic without lag while maintaining connection stability.

1. ExpressVPN — Built-In Obfuscation Keeps Your Discord Activity Private in the UAE

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested January 2025

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN's obfuscation masks VPN traffic whenever it detects network restrictions, making it ideal for making Discord calls from anywhere. Its military-grade encryption and verified no-logs policy also means your online identity and activities stay anonymous. When testing ExpressVPN, Discord voice calls worked reliably.

Its fast Lightway protocol helps maintain clear audio quality, with our average download speed clocking in at 206.10Mbps on nearby servers. Our tests also showed consistently low latency of under 50ms, perfect for voice calls and screen sharing during fast-paced gaming events.

On the downside, the costs are a bit high, starting at $4.99/month. However, there are regular discounts to help you save. With over 4 million active users as of 2023, ExpressVPN is among the most popular choices for Discord (ExpressVPN.com)⁴. I got 61% off with its long-term plans and extra months for free. All subscriptions are also backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. CyberGhost — Easy-To-Use Apps for Quick Discord Connections in the UAE

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

Using Discord safely in the UAE is easy with CyberGhost's intuitive interface — click the large power button to establish a secure connection. Speeds are also fast enough for making voice calls without lag, even though slightly slower than ExpressVPN. We got speeds of 158.07Mbps testing nearby servers. CyberGhost also offers gaming-optimized servers, which performed exceptionally well — I had no issues landing headshots in Fortnite with Discord voice chat in the background.

I don’t recommend CyberGhost’s monthly plans because they’re costly and have a shorter refund period. However, long-term subscriptions start at just $2.19/month and have an extended 45-day money-back guarantee. This gives you plenty of time to test all CyberGhost features with Discord.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Tailor Settings to Balance Speed and Security While Using Discord in the UAE

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA lets you fine-tune your connection for optimal Discord performance in the UAE. For instance, if you’re on a shaky network, you can switch protocols, adjust encryption levels, or change your MTU size to improve voice call quality. Our tests showed WireGuard provides the fastest speeds while protecting your connection.

Unfortunately, the extensive customization options can be too much for beginners. However, using default settings, the VPN works well with Discord right out of the box. At $2.19/month for long-term plans and with a 30-day money-back guarantee, PIA is a solid choice for reliable Discord access from anywhere.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Using Discord in the UAE

We thoroughly tested each VPN's ability to handle VoIP traffic securely while maintaining call quality. Our primary focus was testing whether the VPN worked with Discord voice channels from various locations. We also measured latency and packet loss during extended Discord calls and screen sharing to evaluate performance.

Understanding UAE's VoIP Laws

The UAE strictly regulates VoIP services through its Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). This regulatory framework affects various communication apps differently.

Here's a detailed breakdown of how the VoIP regulations affect Discord in the UAE

FAQs on Using Discord in the UAE

Is it legal to use a VPN in the UAE?

Yes, VPNs are generally legal in the UAE. However, the UAE's Cybercrime Law imposes heavy fines for using VPNs to commit or hide illegal activities. Using a VPN to secure your data while using Discord should be fine. Still, keep updated with UAE laws as they might change.

Can I be tracked when using a VPN in the UAE?

It’s possible but unlikely if you’re using a reliable VPN. While UAE ISPs can identify when you're using a VPN, they can’t see what you're doing within that encrypted connection. Using VPNs with automatic obfuscation helps disguise VPN usage. Regular IP and DNS leak tests help verify your privacy protection is working.

Will I get banned for using a VPN with Discord?

No, Discord doesn't ban users for using VPNs. The platform allows VPN connections and many users regularly connect through VPNs without issues. However, suspicious activity or abuse while using a VPN could result in account restrictions. Using a VPN with worldwide servers enables reliable access to Discord from anywhere.

If you’re unfairly blocked by the VoIP service, there are ways to get unbanned from Discord.

Can I safely access Discord in the UAE with a free VPN?

Free VPNs rarely work well with Discord. Most lack the necessary obfuscation features to us on restricted networks, and their limited servers result in slow, unstable connections. Plus, free VPNs often have data caps and bandwidth restrictions that make voice calls impossible. Premium VPNs with money-back guarantees offer a more dependable solution.

Can I use Discord on PS5 in Dubai?

Discord voice chat works on PS5 in Dubai when using a VPN at the router level. Since gaming consoles don't support direct VPN installations, configuring your router with a VPN allows all connected devices, including your PS5, to bypass VoIP restrictions. The best way to do this is to choose a VPN that's router compatible. ExpressVPN has custom router firmware, making Discord easy to use on your WiFi-connected PS5.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for using Discord in 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.

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References

1. https://freedomhouse.org/country/united-arab-emirates/freedom-net/2023/
2. https://www.unitedworldtelecom.com/blog/is-voip-legal-around-the-world/
3. https://analyzify.com/statsup/discord/
4. https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/4-million-subscribers/