3 Best VPNs for Dubai in 2025 — Secure, Reliable, and Fast
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.
Best VPNs for Dubai — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)
1. ExpressVPN — The Fastest Speeds For Uninterrupted VoIP Calling In Dubai

Tested June 2025 Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Best Feature | Proprietary Lightway protocol uses less code to move data faster |
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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 |
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.

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.
- 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 |
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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 |
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.

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.
- 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 |
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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 |
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).

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.
- 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.
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.
Quick Guide: How To Set Up a VPN for Dubai in 3 Easy Steps
- 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. - Connect to a server.
Choose a server closer to your location for better speeds, since your data travels a shorter distance this way. - 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.
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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.
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