Published on: March 22, 2023 Updated 6 times since publishing
- 🥇 ExpressVPN : It has servers in Dubai, superfast speeds, strong privacy and security features, automatic obfuscation, and a built-in malicious site blocker. It also works with 100+ streaming platforms, has user-friendly apps, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee if you're a first-time user.
Dubai isn’t exactly a privacy-friendly place. The government not only heavily censors what you can and cannot access online, but it also monitors online activities. Plus, authorities block popular VoIP apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime, in addition to limiting access to many sites.
The best way to protect your privacy in Dubai is to use a VPN. When you’re using a VPN, the ISP provider (which is regulated by the UAE government) cannot see what you’re doing online — all they can see is your VPN traffic. VPNs are legal in Dubai as long as you’re not using them to break the law, like accessing content that is banned by the government.
I spent several days researching and testing VPNs to find the best ones for Dubai. All the VPNs on my list are great options — ExpressVPN is my favorite one for its excellent privacy and security features, lightning-fast speeds, and easy-to-use apps. Editor's Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
Quick Summary of the Best VPNs for Dubai
Editor’s Note: The use of VPNs in Dubai is subject to certain limitations. It is important to note that neither I nor anyone at SafetyDetectives.com condones the misuse of VPNs for unlawful activities. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the local VPN regulations to avoid unintentionally breaking the law.
Editor's Note: Intego ONE, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost and ExpressVPN are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company.
🥇1. ExpressVPN — Best VPN for Dubai
Basic 12-Months plan: $3.99 / month
1-month plan: $12.99 / month
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Dubai and the UAE. It has an impressive network in 105 countries (including servers in the UAE and nearby locations like Egypt, Israel, and Sri Lanka), super-fast speeds, excellent security and privacy features, and user-friendly apps.
- Fastest speeds for VoIP apps
- Offers obfuscation on all servers
- Blocks business data trackers
- Accesses 100+ streaming sites
- No port-forwarding
ExpressVPN delivered excellent speeds on Dubai servers, which makes it easy to use VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Zoom when connected to the VPN. I had no noticeable lag or call drops, even during longer conversations. ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol keeps connections fast and stable, while the new Lightway Turbo (Windows only) makes conference video calls even smoother.
ExpressVPN has the best streaming support on the market. It works with 100+ streaming services like OSN+ and StarzPlay Arabia. With its Dubai servers, you can also access local platforms such as Shahid, Wavo, and bigger platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. Moreover, I really appreciate that it also has a smart DNS that allows you to use the VPN on devices that don’t support VPN apps, like gaming consoles or some smart TVs.
I like that ExpressVPN offers advanced security features. Its automatic obfuscation hides VPN traffic, making it harder for networks to detect and block your connection in regions with strict internet censorship, such as the UAE. Plus, its Threat Manager prevents apps and websites from secretly tracking your activity, which is especially useful for business users handling sensitive data or confidential communications while working remotely in Dubai.
What’s more, ExpressVPN has very user-friendly apps — it took me only a couple of seconds to find and connect to any server. ExpressVPN also has some convenient features, like an auto-connect option and the Shortcuts feature, which lets you create 1-click shortcuts for your favorite apps and sites that show up on your screen after you connect to a server.
Bottom Line:
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Dubai in 2026. It has servers in Dubai, lightning-fast speeds, and excellent streaming support. Plus, it comes with advanced security features — including automatic obfuscation for restrictive networks and Threat Manager, which blocks ad trackers and malicious sites. It also has user-friendly apps for all devices.
Read the full ExpressVPN review here
🥈2. Private Internet Access — Great VPN for Business Users in Dubai
6-month plan: $7.50 / month
1-month plan: $11.95 / month
Private Internet Access (PIA) has servers in Dubai and is great for working securely. It lets you customize encryption, so you can adjust the level of protection to match your needs. Business users can choose 128-bit for faster everyday tasks or stronger 256-bit protection for sensitive company data. Moreover, PIA offers port forwarding, making it easier to securely access company servers or remote devices while working from Dubai.
- Multiple encryption options
- Port forwarding
- Data breach monitor
- Limited obfuscated servers
- Poor live chat
PIA also has great security and privacy, which is crucial for business users in Dubai. It has a data breach monitor that will alert you if your personal details have been leaked. Moreover, the advanced kill switch blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, keeping business data safe even on public Wi-Fi networks.
I’m also a fan of PIA MACE, which blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites. During my tests in Dubai, it prevented pop-ups and malware on business tools like Google Workspace, and blocked shady HTTP sites when accessing local suppliers’ websites, which is why it’s no.1 on our list of the best VPN ad blockers.
PIA has good streaming support. It works with 30+ top streaming services. Plus, as it has servers in Dubai, you can safely access Dubai platforms like Shahid, Wavo, and OSN+. Like ExpressVPN, it has a smart DNS tool for using the VPN on devices like gaming consoles.
Bottom Line:
Private Internet Access (PIA) is really good for business users in Dubai. It offers customizable encryption for balancing speed and security, port forwarding for secure remote access, and advanced features like Identity Guard, the kill switch, and MACE to keep company data safe and devices protected.
Read the full Private Internet Access review here
Editor's Note: Private Internet Access and this site are in the same ownership group.
🥉3. CyberGhost VPN — Great VPN for Reaching Dubai’s Local Services Safely
6-month plan: $6.99 / month
1-month plan: $12.99 / month
CyberGhost VPN has the largest number of servers in Dubai, giving you a UAE IP address to access local services securely. This makes it possible to log in to UAE-only banking apps, government portals, utility services, and other region-restricted platforms safely and reliably.
- Numerous Dubai servers
- Auto-connect options
- Extra-secure NoSpy servers
- No obfuscation
- 7 device connections
My favorite CyberGhost VPN feature is Smart Rules. It can automatically connect to a secure server whenever you join a public Wi-Fi network, which is ideal for business travelers using hotel or airport Wi-Fi in Dubai. For example, you can set it up to connect to a local server to secure your data whenever you open your online banking app, which is very convenient.
CyberGhost VPN is great for streaming. It works with top platforms in Dubai and has great speeds for streaming. Plus, it comes with a smart DNS tool.
CyberGhost VPN also has tons of advanced security features. I like its Content Blocker, which blocks ads and connections to malicious sites — when I tested it in Dubai, it was very good at protecting me from shady local sites, but it didn’t get rid of all ads. I also like CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers, which are housed at the VPN’s headquarters and only accessible to select CyberGhost staff. This adds an extra layer of protection for business users in Dubai who need to keep their confidential data safe from potential surveillance or breaches.
However, the VPN doesn’t have obfuscation, which makes it harder to stay connected in Dubai where the internet is heavily restricted. This can be annoying if you rely on VoIP calls or need steady access to work tools. ExpressVPN and PIA both come with obfuscation, so they tend to work more smoothly in UAE.
Bottom Line:
CyberGhost VPN is great for accessing local services, thanks to its numerous Dubai servers. It also comes with handy Wi-Fi automation, strong streaming support and speeds, plus advanced security features like NoSpy servers and an ad blocker. Just keep in mind it lacks obfuscation.
Read the full CyberGhost VPN review here
Editor's Note: CyberGhost and this site are in the same ownership group.
4. NordVPN — Good Dubai VPN With Strong Security
Plus 24-month plan: $3.59 / month
Complete 24-month plan: $3.99 / month
Prime 24-month plan: $6.99 / month
NordVPN has servers in Dubai and high-end security features. Its NordWhisper protocol is designed to bypass advanced network filters by blending in with regular internet traffic, making it very effective at overcoming the heavy restrictions in Dubai. You can also connect to obfuscated servers in the UAE and set up auto-connect to stay protected on Wi-Fi networks.
- Bypasses network restrictions
- Double VPN for sensitive data
- Blocks trackers, malware, and ads
- Works with 10+ streaming apps
- macOS app lacks unified features
NordVPN comes with a Double VPN feature, which routes your connection through 2 servers for extra security, though it can slow down your speeds. This setup is worth it in Dubai if you’re accessing sensitive business accounts, handling confidential communications, or logging into banking apps on public Wi-Fi, where extra encryption can protect your data from surveillance.
I really like NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature, which blocks ads, trackers, and shady sites. Plus, I also like how it protects you from malware-infected downloads as well. In my tests, it stopped me from visiting malicious sites 100% of the time and blocked most ads on ad-heavy sites.
NordVPN is also great for streaming — it works with 10+ popular streaming services, including Dubai streaming platforms. I like that it also comes with a smart DNS feature. I still prefer ExpressVPN, though, as it can reliably access 100+ streaming apps.
Bottom Line:
NordVPN is a great option for secure connections in Dubai. It has advanced security features, excellent obfuscation technology, a DoubleVPN feature for extra security, and great malware protection. It also supports streaming, but can access only 10+ streaming apps.
Read the full NordVPN review here
5. Surfshark — Beginner-Friendly Dubai VPN With Intuitive Apps
One 24-month plan: $2.49 / month
One+ 24-month plan: $4.19 / month
Surfshark has servers in Dubai and also has some of the most intuitive apps that even total beginners can set up and use. The interface is intuitive, so it doesn’t take more than 4–5 seconds to find and connect to a server. Plus, all settings and features come with helpful explanations.
- Beginner-friendly apps
- Unlimited connections
- Automatically rotates IP
- Slow speeds on distant servers
- Only DNS leak protection
Surfshark offers 2 features to help bypass network restrictions: NoBorders and Camouflage Mode. In Dubai, NoBorders is useful for accessing locally restricted sites on standard networks like public Wi-Fi or workplaces without slowing down your connection. Camouflage Mode hides your VPN traffic, but it can significantly reduce speeds, so it’s best reserved for situations where you need extra privacy (ExpressVPN offers automatic obfuscation on all servers).
It also has IP Rotator, a feature that frequently changes your IP address for better privacy (without disconnecting you from the VPN). Plus, CleanWeb blocks ads and trackers that could store your browsing data.
The VPN has good streaming support as it works with popular streaming platforms in Dubai, like Netflix UAE, and comes with a smart DNS. However, it doesn’t support torrenting in Dubai.
Bottom Line:
Surfshark is one of the most intuitive and beginner-friendly VPNs on the market. It also comes with 2 obfuscation solutions, IP Rotator, and an ad blocker. Plus, it allows unlimited connections and provides good streaming support.
Read the full Surfshark VPN review here
Quick Comparison Table
Editor's Note: Intego ONE, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost and ExpressVPN are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company.
Testing Methodology: Comparison & Ranking Criteria
I followed our proven testing methodology to find the best VPNs for Dubai. I evaluated every VPN based on security, performance, ease of use, and value. I ran multiple tests to ensure all VPNs on my list meet strict standards. Here are the criteria I used:
- I checked server locations. I looked for VPNs with servers in Dubai or nearby countries like Egypt, Israel, and Sri Lanka. All of my top picks have at least one server in Dubai for reliable local access.
- I tested security features. I made sure every VPN uses 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy. Also, most of the VPNs on my list have full leak protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks and offer obfuscation.
- I measured speeds. All VPNs tend to slow down your connection due to the encryption process. However, all the VPNs I listed here offered speeds that were fast enough for smooth streaming and browsing. ExpressVPN came out as the fastest VPN on my list.
- I verified streaming support. I made sure the VPNs can access popular platforms like Netflix UAE and Amazon Prime, as well as smaller Dubai services such as Shahid, Wavo, and OSN+.
- I compared pricing and value. I checked that each VPN allows multiple simultaneous connections, has apps for all major platforms, and offers a generous money-back guarantee. ExpressVPN provided the best overall value with its combination of speed, security, and user-friendly apps.
Top Brands That Didn’t Make the Cut
- Mullvad VPN. This VPN has servers in Dubai and provides strong security and privacy features. However, its speeds are not that great, and it’s also not good for streaming since it’s not compatible with sites like Disney+ and Amazon Prime.
- IPvanish. IPVanish has 3,200+ servers in 112 countries, comes with user-friendly apps, and provides unlimited connections and good speeds. Although it has servers in Dubai, IPVanish isn’t great for streaming since it doesn’t work with Amazon Prime and Disney+.
- DroidVPN. DroidVPN is free to use, but I don’t recommend getting it because it’s missing essential security features, such as a kill switch and a no-logs policy. Plus, its speeds are very slow, and it doesn’t work with most streaming sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a VPN in Dubai?
Yes, as VPNs are legal in Dubai. They’re only illegal if you use them for illegal purposes, like accessing sites that are banned in Dubai or using VoIP services (the UAE government has banned most of these). That said, I still recommend checking your local laws before using a VPN to make sure it’s 100% safe to do it.
Which VPN is the best for Dubai?
The best VPN for Dubai is ExpressVPN — it has servers in Dubai and in nearby countries like Egypt, Israel, and Sri Lanka. Plus, it’s very fast, secure, and easy to use.
Can I use a free VPN in Dubai?
Maybe, but I don’t recommend it. Most free VPNs lack industry-standard features and some log your data and personal information. Even good free VPNs come with noticeable limitations — like daily or monthly data caps, limited access to servers, and no streaming support.
Instead, I recommend getting a premium VPN service. My no. 1 pick, ExpressVPN, is fast, has great privacy and security features, and is very easy to use.
Do VPNs slow down your speeds?
All VPNs cause slowdowns due to the encryption-decryption process. That said, top VPNs make the slowdowns very hard to notice — ExpressVPN, for example, provides blazing-fast speeds for browsing, streaming, torrenting, and gaming (which is why it’s the fastest VPN on the market).
Can I set up my VPN after arriving in Dubai?
Yes, you can set up a VPN after arriving. However, downloading certain apps in Dubai may be restricted. To avoid issues, I suggest installing a VPN before traveling. I recommend ExpressVPN, as it has apps that are easy to set up on all devices, and its servers in nearby countries or Dubai itself ensure secure, fast access to local and international websites. Once installed, you can connect automatically to secure servers, protecting your data from public Wi-Fi and local network monitoring.
How do I use WhatsApp calling in Dubai safely?
WhatsApp calling is restricted in Dubai, so you need a VPN to access it. I recommend a premium VPN, which allows you to connect to a nearby server and encrypt your traffic. This keeps your VoIP calls private and secure. ExpressVPN’s obfuscation and fast speeds make it ideal for maintaining reliable WhatsApp calls without interruptions. Always connect to a trusted server before opening the app to avoid detection and protect your personal or business conversations.
What sites are blocked in Dubai?
Dubai blocks VoIP apps, adult content, gambling sites, and some messaging platforms. Commonly restricted messaging services include WhatsApp (calls only), Viber, FaceTime, and Google Meet for voice or video calls. To access these safely and securely, I suggest using a premium service such as ExpressVPN, which can bypass restrictions and provide a UAE or nearby IP.
Editor's Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
