The Best VPNs for United Arab Emirates 2024
Looking for a reliable VPN that can deal with online restrictions in the UAE? Unblock the internet and boost your privacy and security with our top picks.
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Last updated Oct 9, 2024
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Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strict laws, mass surveillance, and content restrictions. For example, they ban VoIP services, including WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, and Snapchat. If you live in the UAE or plan on visiting, you should use a VPN.
NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN are our top three best VPNs for the UAE. They offer unparalleled security, great speeds, and airtight privacy and operate secure VPN servers there.
Keep reading to learn how to bypass online censorship and stay anonymous in the UAE.
In this article
The best VPNs for the UAETop 3 VPN services for UAE compared
NordVPN: Best overall
Surfshark: Best value
ExpressVPN: Best for beginners
Honorable mentions
Best VPNs for the UAE FAQs
Bottom line: The best VPNs for the UAE
The best VPNs for the UAE
- NordVPN: Best overall
- Surfshark: Best value
- ExpressVPN: Best for beginners
Even top-quality VPNs can’t guarantee seamless performance in the UAE. Our picks have the best chances of bypassing VPN filters and restrictive firewalls.
Top 3 VPN services for UAE compared
| VPN | 
|
|
|
| Starting price | Starts at $2.99/mo (billed every two years) | Starts at $1.99/mo (billed every two years) | Starts at $6.67/mo (billed annually) |
| Number of devices | 10 | Unlimited | 8 |
| Server count | 6,200+ servers across 111 countries | 3,200+ servers across 100 countries | Unlisted across 105 countries |
| Servers in UAE | |||
| Obfuscated servers | |||
| Free version | |||
| Streaming support | Yes — Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC, Disney+, DAZN | Yes — Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC, Disney+, and more | Yes — Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, BBC, Disney+, and more |
| Learn more | Get NordVPN | Get Surfshark | Get ExpressVPN |
How we test and rate VPNs
We complete standardized hands-on tests for each VPN we review so we can put their claims to the test. This includes vigorous third-party testing by comparing our internet speed while connected to different servers, checking for DNS leaks, making sure the kill switch actually works, and more. We also make sure we can comfortably access popular streaming sites, like Netflix, and still do our day-to-day work without interruption.
Once we’ve completed the testing, our editorial rating is calculated by taking into account key features you’d expect from a good product. We score each VPN in the following categories and use a weighted average to calculate the final rating out of 5 stars: price, server count, speed, security, and features.
To learn more about how we test, check out our full VPN methodology here.
NordVPN: Best overall
NordVPN
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Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
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Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
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3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
Who it’s best for
We recommend NordVPN if you're looking for advanced security features. It doesn't have unlimited connections like Surfshark or a beginner-friendly UI like ExpressVPN. However, it offers a second-to-none security setup without sacrificing performance.
What we liked
NordVPN operates five virtual obfuscated servers in the UAE. Obfuscation will disguise your VPN traffic to bypass VPN blocks and firewalls. However, it works only with OpenVPN, so pick that protocol.
Furthermore, most of its VPN servers are optimized for streaming services or torrenting. Such a network can ensure semi-reliable access to content, websites, and apps blocked in the UAE.
Some of NordVPN’s prominent features include:
- Double VPN (multi-hop): This feature adds another layer of encryption to your VPN connection. You can use it to deal with internet censorship and boost your privacy. Routing traffic through two VPN servers instead of one means your ISP won't be able to detect VPN traffic. Double VPN will cause speed drops, so we don't recommend using it on super-slow networks.
- Split tunneling: With a VPN, you can choose which parts of your online traffic to protect. For example, you can browse local UAE sites without protection and then use a VPN to text on WhatsApp.
- Dark web monitor: NordVPN can scour the dark web for data leaks and alert you if it finds your info.
- Threat Protection: This tool blocks web trackers, ads, and malicious websites. It also detects risky apps and scans all the files you download for malware.
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NordVPN maintains a proven no-log policy, which ensures your privacy in the UAE. You can also buy a dedicated IP address to bypass IP bans and restrictions. Nord Security offers other products like NordPass (a password manager) and NordLocker (encrypted cloud storage). NordPass also has a Data Breach Scanner, which checks if your info has appeared in data breaches.
What we didn’t like
NordVPN doesn’t allow port forwarding, which can be a deal-breaker for avid torrenters. It can also get expensive if you include additional features and products like NordPass. We’d also like to see more simultaneous VPN connections available for the price.
NordVPN specs
| Price range | $2.99–$15.99/mo |
| Free version | No |
| Number of servers | 6,200+ servers across 111 countries |
| Number of connected devices | 10 |
| VPN protocol | NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec |
| No-logs policy | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | Yes |
| Torrenting support | Yes |
| Learn more | Get NordVPN
Read NordVPN Review |
Surfshark: Best value
Surfshark
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All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
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Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
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One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
Who it’s best for
We recommend Surfshark to protect many devices without breaking the bank. Surfshark is affordable and supports unlimited simultaneous connections. With all its advanced features, it provides the best value for the money.
What we liked
Surfshark has servers in Dubai, but support agents wouldn't tell us how many. We only got confirmation that they were physically there. Physical servers can be faster than virtual servers, depending on your location, but also slower. Surfshark’s network of 3,200+ servers across 100 countries is good but not on par with NordVPN.
Some of Surfshark's advanced features include:
- CleanWeb: It blocks malware, trackers, ads, and phishing attacks.
- Bypasser: This is just Surfshark's term for split tunneling.
- Camouflage mode: Surfshark's term for obfuscation. This feature activates automatically when you use OpenVPN.
- Dynamic MultiHop: Surfshark’s term for double VPN.
- NoBorders: Surfshark’s VPN app can detect network restrictions in the UAE and activate NoBorders automatically. Once enabled, it will give you a special list of best-suited servers for this scenario. You can also activate NoBorders manually.
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Surfshark has a proven no-log policy and offers dedicated IP addresses. Depending on your subscription, you can also access Surfshark Alert (data leak notifications), Alternative ID (creates an alternative online persona for you), Surfshark Search (a private search engine), and Surfshark Antivirus.
What we didn’t like
We didn't have the best experience using Surfshark to unblock Netflix. It flagged VPN usage many times and served us with proxy errors. You may need to try various servers to gain access to regional streaming libraries.
Surfshark specs
| Price range | $2.19–$17.95/mo |
| Free version | No |
| Number of servers | 3,200+ servers across 100 countries |
| Number of connected devices | Unlimited |
| VPN protocol | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| No-logs policy | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | Yes |
| Torrenting support | Yes |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark
Read Surfshark Review |
ExpressVPN: Best for beginners
ExpressVPN
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Hides intrusive display ads when browsing the web, improving page speed and easing data usage on mobile
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Privacy and safety benefits of a VPN with best-in-class encryption and innovative server technology in 105 countries
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Enjoy no activity logs, malicious sites and trackers protection, and more on up to 8 devices
Who it’s best for
ExpressVPN is an excellent gateway service if you've never used a VPN. Its clients are famous for their uncluttered design and intuitiveness. Although it has its share of advanced features, ExpressVPN prioritizes simplicity and reliability.
What we liked
ExpressVPN is one of the top three VPNs in the world (with NordVPN and Surfshark). It doesn't have any servers in the UAE but offers four VPN server locations optimized for restrictive countries.
They include:
- UK - East London
- UK - London
- USA - New York
- Germany - Frankfurt - 1
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The UAE is a treacherous territory for VPNs, and only the best can hope to provide good connectivity there. ExpressVPN opted for an indirect approach rather than operating servers in the UAE.
Some of its notable features include:
- Obfuscation: ExpressVPN doesn't advertise VPN cloaking; you'll find no info about it. Its stealth mode activates automatically if the app detects deep packet inspection; it will run in the background whenever you need it.
- Threat manager: It blocks trackers and malicious websites.
- Password manager: ExpressVPN is one of the rare VPN providers with a built-in password manager.
- Ad blocker: It blocks annoying ads. Note that this feature works only with the Lightway protocol.
- Parental controls: This feature can protect your children from some adult websites. It's not as comprehensive as dedicated parental control apps, but it's a nice addition.
ExpressVPN has passed multiple no-log audits, and it's the first VPN provider to launch a proprietary VPN router called ExpressVPN Aircove.
What we didn’t like
ExpressVPN's long-term subscriptions are expensive. The one-month plan is on par with NordVPN's pricing at $2.99/mo (billed every two years). However, NordVPN offers significant discounts on longer subscriptions. We'd like to see ExpressVPN reduce its prices or boost its feature set to better justify the current pricing structure.
ExpressVPN specs
| Price range | $6.67–$12.95/mo |
| Free version | No |
| Number of servers | Unlisted across 105 countries |
| Number of connected devices | 8 |
| VPN protocol | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| No-logs policy | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | Yes |
| Torrenting support | Yes |
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN
Read ExpressVPN Review |
Honorable mentions
NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN are our top UAE VPNs. But there were a few other services that deserve your consideration. Here are the honorable mentions:
- CyberGhost: CyberGhost has an affordable price tag and 12 servers in Dubai. While it has some exciting features, our experience wasn't always smooth sailing.
Get CyberGhost | Read Our CyberGhost Review
- Proton VPN: Proton VPN has 8 servers in Dubai. It's a bit on the pricier side, but it does provide value in terms of security.
Read Our Proton VPN Review
- Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield is another VPN with servers in the UAE. While we liked the fast speeds, we encountered problems using some features.
Read Our Hotspot Shield Review
Best VPNs for the UAE FAQs
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Which VPNs are best for the UAE?
NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN were our best choices for the UAE. Their combination of security, geo-unblocking capabilities, and commitment to user privacy made them stand out from the rest of the market.
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Are VPNs legal in the UAE?
VPNs are legal in the UAE, but using a VPN to commit or hide crimes is illegal. Unblocking restricted content with a VPN can also get you in trouble.
Review the laws to make sure you understand which websites and apps are acceptable in the UAE.
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Does NordVPN work in the UAE?
NordVPN does work in the UAE. It has 5 virtual Dubai servers.
To access them, go to Settings and ensure you are using the OpenVPN protocol for obfuscation. Go to the main screen, and click on the three dots next to Obfuscated. Select UAE. You should connect to the quickest Dubai server.
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What happens if you get caught using a VPN in the UAE?
If you’re caught using a VPN to commit or hide illegal activities, you could go to jail. You could also face fines ranging from 500,000 to 2,000,000 DH (About $136,000 to $544,000 USD).
Bottom line: The best VPNs for the UAE
NordVPN is our top pick for the UAE, thanks to its excellent balance of security, privacy, and performance. Surfshark is a close second with similar features and the best price-to-value ratio. Both have servers in the UAE—NordVPN’s virtual and Surfshark’s physical. In third place, ExpressVPN is the best tool for VPN beginners.
Check our list of the best VPNs to learn more about our winners and explore other great options.
NordVPN
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Ultra-secure, high-speed VPN complete with malware protection and automatic blocking of intrusive ads and third-party trackers
-
Other benefits include a premium password manager, dark web monitoring, and access to IP-restricted content
-
3 plans to choose from for custom protection on up to 10 devices
Author Details
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Sara J. Nguyen is a freelance writer specializing in cybersecurity. She aims to help people protect their data while enjoying technology. She has written about online privacy and tech for over 5 years for several organizations. When she's not writing about the latest cybersecurity trends, you can find her on LinkedIn.
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Mary is a seasoned cybersecurity writer with over seven years of experience. With a B.S. in Liberal Arts from Clarion University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Point Park University, she educates audiences on scams, antivirus software, and more. Her passion lies in educating audiences on helpful ways to protect their data.
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