We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: Holiday.com, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
Advertising Disclosure

vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: Holiday.com, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

3 Best VPNs for Dubai in 2025 — Secure, Reliable, and Fast

Sheharyar Zaheer Updated on June 20, 2025 Fact-checked by Anneke van Aswegen Cybersecurity Researcher

Dubai is among the top tourist destinations globally, but its restrictive internet policies are far from ideal. The government regularly monitors internet activity and blocks VoIP calling features of popular apps, such as WhatsApp, Messenger, and FaceTime.

ISPs like Etisalat and Du have also been known to block or restrict VPN usage to prevent access to unauthorised content. Since only a handful of VPNs work in Dubai and other emirate states, we tested 30+ VPNs to find the best ones for Dubai. These VPNs safeguard your online privacy in Dubai without compromising your speeds. Plus, they have servers in or near the UAE, allowing secure access to local services.

The best Dubai VPNs I shortlisted can prevent detection and blocking by offering high-level encryption, many worldwide servers, and the ability to conceal their use. These VPNs can unblock VoIP apps in Dubai and provide fast speeds for uninterrupted video or audio calling. They also reliably work with popular streaming platforms including Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Max, and OSN. Read ahead to find the best option for you.

Be advised. While VPNs aren’t illegal in Dubai, there are laws regarding their use. Unblocking censored content can also go against local laws. The listed VPNs adhere to no-logs policies to safeguard your online activity. However, team vpnMentor and I do not condone any illegal activity (including copyright infringement), and we recommend that you check the regulations first to avoid any issues.

Best VPNs for Dubai — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)

1. ExpressVPN — The Fastest Speeds For Uninterrupted VoIP Calling In Dubai

Best Feature Proprietary Lightway protocol uses less code to move data faster
Server Network 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including servers in the UAE
Device Connections Up to 8 device connections at the same time under one account
Compatible With Android, Windows, iOS, Mac, Linux, smart TVs, browser extensions, routers, and more
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.

ExpressVPN gave us the best speeds among all the VPNs we tested for Dubai. Using UAE servers, our international testers watched the UAE Pro League on Sony LIV in HD. We also enjoyed uninterrupted video calling on WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Telegram, testing servers in the US and UK. The Lightway protocol is also optimized to consume minimal battery, making it ideal for extended use on portable devices such as Android and iOS phones, tablets, and laptops.

Screenshot showing a WhatsApp video call with ExpressVPN connected to the UK Docklands serverWe did not experience any interruptions during the call

Automatic obfuscation across its entire server network makes your VPN data appear as regular HTTPS internet traffic. This enables the VPN to function even on networks with restrictions, like those at school and work. During testing, ExpressVPN consistently unblocked video calling features on WhatsApp on Etisalat mobile networks.

Its robust security features protect your privacy in Dubai, even on public WiFi networks. In addition to military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection, ExpressVPN adheres to a strict, independently audited no-logs policy, which was put to the test when Turkish authorities seized its servers and found nothing. It also uses RAM-only servers that erase all data with every reboot.

The only con is that it's somewhat expensive compared to other VPNs. However, you can still get it at a very affordable price with its year-round discounts and promos. It also offers crypto payments as an alternative if you prefer not to share your financial details. All ExpressVPN options are backed by a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee*, allowing you to test all its features risk-free.

Useful Features

  • Advanced protection. ExpressVPN offers an ad-blocker to stop ads and a Threat Manager to block malware tracking attempts from third parties. It also provides parental controls to block adult content on connected devices.
  • Easy to use. Apps are very user-friendly and look almost identical on popular operating systems. This way, you don’t need to adjust to a new interface every time you try using ExpressVPN on a different device.
  • ExpressVPN Keys. ExpressVPN not only keeps your online data safe but also protects your login credentials for different platforms and websites with Keys. This allows for faster sign-ins, and you can also use it to create strong passwords.
Price
$4.99/month (2 Years Incl. 4 Months Free)
Money-back guarantee
30 days for first-time customers
Customer Support
24/7 Live Chat Support
ExpressVPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • One of the fastest VPNs
  • Works with top streaming sites
  • A proven no-logs policy
  • Limited customization
  • Smart Location isn't always the fastest

2. CyberGhost — Dedicated Servers For Quick and Secure Access To Global Streaming Platforms From Anywhere

Best Feature Specialty servers make it easy to access popular streaming platforms reliably
Server Network 11,690 servers in 100 countries, and can provide a UAE IP address
Device Connections Connect 7 devices at the same time without any noticeable speed drops
Compatible With Android, Windows, iOS, Mac, Linux, smart TVs, browser extensions, routers, and more
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

CyberGhost offers streaming-optimized servers for reliable access to popular services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more. These servers are regularly maintained and tested to make sure they work with their designated platforms. During our tests, we connected to the Netflix-optimized server in 3 seconds and watched The Sandman without buffering. CyberGhost's speeds were only slightly slower than those of ExpressVPN.

Screenshot of the CyberGhost app interface showing streaming serversClick on the star next to any server to add it to "Favorites"

Another excellent feature CyberGhost offers is Automatic WiFi protection. This enables the VPN to automatically connect whenever you use an unsecured or untrusted WiFi network. This feature is especially useful in cafes and restaurants in Dubai, where cybercriminals often exploit public networks to steal sensitive data. Its split tunneling feature also allows you to choose which apps and websites use the VPN.

It also safeguards your online data with AES-256-bit encryption and by adhering to a strict no-logs policy. Its Block content feature can protect your devices from trackers, malware, and annoying ads. This ad-blocking also improves website load times while its kill switch protects your data from accidental exposure by disconnecting your device from the internet if the VPN drops.

One minor disadvantage of CyberGhost is that its monthly purchase option is comparatively expensive and only comes with a shorter refund period. However, CyberGhost offers an extended 45-day money-back guarantee with all its long-term purchases, which gives you more than enough time to test all its features risk-free.

Useful Features

  • Smart rules. These are automation options that can enable the VPN to automatically connect to a server of your choice whenever you open specific apps or websites.
  • Specialty servers. CyberGhost also has gaming and torrenting specialty servers. The gaming options even display the lag of each server, allowing you to choose one with the minimum ping. You can also upgrade to its security-optimized NoSpy servers, located at its headquarters in Romania, so that no one from the outside can access them.
  • Dedicated IPs. You can get a dedicated IP address for an additional fee. This way, you get fewer CAPTCHA interruptions and reliable access to online services as a dedicated IP is less likely to be blocklisted by websites or trigger security flags.
Price
$2.19/month (2 Years Incl. 2 Months Free)
Money-back guarantee
45 Days
Customer Support
24/7 Live Chat Support
CyberGhost VPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Secure access to streaming
  • Military-level security
  • Designed for ease of use
  • Slower long-distance servers
  • Doesn't work in China

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Adjustable Security Settings to Optimize Your Connection in and Outside Dubai

Best Feature Change your encryption level to balance your speed and security
Server Network 29,650 servers in 91 countries, including the UAE
Device Connections Unlimited connections to protect all your devices simultaneously
Compatible With Android, Windows, iOS, Mac, Linux, smart TVs, browser extensions, routers, and more
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process.

You can boost your speeds or enhance your connection security in Dubai with PIA. It allows you to choose between multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. You can change the MTU size of data packets with both protocols. With OpenVPN, you can also choose your encryption level between AES-128-bit (slightly faster) or AES-256-bit (more secure).

Screenshot of the PIA app streaming Ginny and Georgia with US streaming server connectedI selected OpenVPN with 128-bit encryption to boost streaming speeds

It also offers obfuscation through its Multi-Hop feature, utilizing Shadowsocks and SOCKS5 proxies. This helps your VPN data mimic regular internet traffic, allowing it to avoid detection by VPN-blocking network firewalls. Its MACE feature can prevent ads, malware, and trackers. Its ad-blocking capability is very impressive, and during our tests, we did not see any pop-up ads on The Guardian, Telegraph, and other websites.

The only issue I found with PIA is that it is headquartered in the US, which is a part of the 5/9/14-Eyes intelligence sharing alliance. However, it's not a big concern since PIA follows a no-logs policy, meaning that none of your VPN activity is recorded or shared.

You can also test all of PIA’s features for free since all its purchase options are backed by a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee. In terms of pricing, it is one of the most economical VPNs currently available.

Useful Features

  • Port Forwarding. This feature provides better P2P speeds, making it easier to download large torrent files.
  • Streaming servers. PIA’s streaming servers are location-specific, unlike CyberGhost’s platform-specific servers. These servers are available in the US, the UK, Japan, Australia, and more, and are designed to work with all streaming platforms in a particular location
  • Advanced kill switch. PIA also offers an advanced kill switch in addition to a regular one. This is a more secure option, as it blocks all internet activity, even when you are offline, until you connect to the VPN first.
Price
$2.19/month (2 Years Incl. 2 Months Free)
Money-back guarantee
30 Days
Customer Support
24/7 Live Chat Support
Private Internet Access Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Many servers to choose from
  • Customizable security settings
  • Solid choice for torrenting
  • Hit-or-miss customer support
  • Tricky to navigate

Quick Comparison Table: Dubai VPN Features

The table below highlights all key features you should look for in a Dubai VPN. These features include security, speed, the number of devices you can protect simultaneously, and whether these VPNs offer a money-back guarantee. All the VPNs we have shortlisted offer servers in the UAE regions if you are looking to get a secure UAE IP address.

Speeds Server Network Device Connections Obfuscation? Money-back guarantee Works With
🥇 ExpressVPN Very Fast 3,000 servers in 105 countries 8 Yes 30 days Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Shahid, beIN Sports, and OSN
🥈 CyberGhost Fast 11,690 servers in 100 countries 7 No 45 days Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Shahid, beIN Sports, and OSN
🥉 PIA Fast 29,650 servers in 91 countries Unlimited Yes 30 days Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Shahid, beIN Sports, and OSN

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.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Dubai

We tested the VPNs for Dubai based on real-world scenarios and the issues that users face there. Our team began by shortlisting and testing VPNs that offer servers worldwide, including those in the UAE. We then tested the security and privacy features of the shortlisted VPNs and further narrowed down our list by only choosing VPNs with no-log policies. We also checked that these VPNs are equipped with additional security features, such as obfuscation, AES-256-bit encryption, and leak protection, to securely unblock apps like Discord, WhatsApp, Telegram, and FaceTime.

VPNs that successfully passed our security tests were then subjected to further assessment for their speeds and streaming capabilities. These VPNs were extensively tested for their ability to reliably work with local and global streaming services, including Dubai Sports, Noor Dubai, Shahid, OSN, beIN, Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Max, and Hulu. We also opted for the fastest VPNs, which consistently provide the best speeds and stable connections for uninterrupted VoIP calls, seamless HD streaming without buffering, and seamless browsing.

Our team of testers regularly evaluates VPNs to provide you with detailed information about their features, benefits, and drawbacks, enabling you to make an informed decision. For an in-depth breakdown of our testing procedure, you can visit our methodology page. Feel free to use our testing criteria as the basis for your VPN testing.

Quick Guide: How To Set Up a VPN for Dubai in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Download a VPN.
    I recommend ExpressVPN due to its impressive speeds for high-quality VoIP calling, its reliable global servers, and robust security features, including automatic obfuscation to bypass detection and blocking.
  2. Connect to a server.
    Choose a server closer to your location for better speeds, since your data travels a shorter distance this way.
  3. Start browsing.
    Your data is now secure in and outside Dubai, allowing you to browse the entire internet safely.

FAQs on Using a VPN for Dubai

Are VPNs legal in Dubai?

VPNs are legal in Dubai as long as you don’t use them for any illegal activity. For example, it is acceptable to use a VPN to secure your online data or to conduct financial transactions safely. The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority emphasizes that you should not use a VPN to commit a crime or break any “ethics and morality” laws. Always conduct research and check local regulations to stay up-to-date with the latest guidelines on VPNs.

Can I use a free VPN for Dubai?

Yes, you can use a free VPN in Dubai, but it's not recommended. This is because free VPNs rarely have the security and privacy features, like adherence to a no-logs policy, required to safeguard your online data in Dubai. Some free VPNs can even compromise your online security by embedding malware or tracking software in their apps. Plus, most of them only offer limited servers and slow speeds. Top-tier VPNs with money-back policies are better alternatives.

However, we have also shortlisted the best free VPNs for Dubai after conducting extensive testing. Although they have their limitations, they come with robust security features to keep your online data safe, both inside and outside Dubai.

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

All the VPNs shortlisted are excellent for unblocking VoIP services in the UAE. They have extensive global server networks, unmatched speeds for high-quality VoIP calling, and offer robust security features to keep your online data safe. Due to the restrictions on VoIP services in Dubai, people have even opted for apps that don’t offer end-to-end encryption. These apps can collect all your data, so always use a VPN while using such apps.

Get the Best VPN for Dubai

The best VPNs for Dubai can unblock restricted features of VoIP apps, such as voice and video for WhatsApp and FaceTime. They are also equipped with robust security features to safeguard your online data, enabling you to browse your favorite websites privately. These VPNs also offer fast speeds, allowing you to stream HD content for extended periods without interruption.

All the VPNs I've shortlisted reliably work in and outside Dubai. However, my top VPN for Dubai is ExpressVPN. It can reliably access VoIP apps in Dubai and offers advanced security features, such as obfuscation, to avoid VPN detection. Plus, it is the fastest VPN we tested.

[*] Please note that ExpressVPN's generous money-back guarantee applies to first-time customers only.
Privacy Tip

Your online activity may be visible to the sites you visit

Your IP Address:

216.73.216.97

Your Location:

US, Ohio, Columbus

Your Internet Provider:

Some sites might use these details for advertising, analytics, or tracking your online preferences.

To protect your data from the websites you visit, one of the most effective steps is to hide your IP address, which can reveal your location, identity, and browsing habits. Using a virtual private network (VPN) masks your real IP by routing your internet traffic through a secure server, making it appear as though you're browsing from a different location. A VPN also encrypts your connection, keeping your data safe from surveillance and unauthorized access.

We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Learn more
vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: Holiday.com, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

About the Author

Sheharyar is a passionate tech-writer who believes in the digital freedom and online privacy of all. He regularly tests and analyzes different VPNs to give accurate and up-to-date user-guides and comparisons.

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