5 Best VPNs for Dubai to Stay Safe and Anonymous in 2024
Hardly any VPNs work in Dubai — but without one, you can’t safely access social media apps, streaming sites, messenger services, and other online services you rely on. That’s because many foreign websites are blocked in the country.
On top of that, I discovered that other sites list VPN providers that don’t work in the country anymore. After testing 25+ of the top VPNs for myself, my conclusion is that ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Dubai, with more powerful security and privacy bonuses than any other VPN I tested, like TrustedServer technology and an independent security audit.
What’s best is that you can subscribe to ExpressVPN in Dubai with no risk, since all plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you change your mind, it’s easy to get a refund.
Editors’ Note: Intego, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost and Expressvpn are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company.
Quick Guide: Best VPNs for Dubai in 2024
- ExpressVPN — Security and privacy extras keep your connection safe and anonymous. Plus, you can use ExpressVPN risk-free in Dubai for 30 days.
- PrivateVPN — Stealth Mode unblocks the open web in Dubai, but has a small server network.
- Proton VPN — A Secure Core Server in Dubai protects you from network attacks, but its refund policy makes you pay for the days that you’ve already used the service.
- PureVPN — Quantum-resistant encryption makes your data even harder to access, but it has had a privacy scandal.
- ZenMate — Allows you to connect to servers in Dubai on unlimited devices, but it doesn’t have 24/7 live chat support.
Subscribe to ExpressVPN for Dubai
The Best VPNs for Dubai — Updated 2024
1. ExpressVPN — #1 VPN for Dubai With the Most Security Extras to Keep You Safe and Anonymous
Key Features:
- 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries, including multiple IP addresses in Dubai
- Top-notch security and privacy features like 256-bit military-grade encryption, TrustedServer technology, a full external audit, and an automatic kill switch
- 24/7 live chat support plus an online ticket system, guides, and FAQs
- Connect to servers in Dubai on up to 8 devices at once
- 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans
ExpressVPN’s impressive security and privacy features make it the best VPN for Dubai to keep your devices safe and your connection anonymous. In addition to hiding your data with the top standard of military-grade 256-bit encryption, ExpressVPN’s servers and practices have been independently audited by a third-party cybersecurity company.
It also has TrustedServer technology across its network, which uses RAM-only servers that are erased the moment they’re unplugged. The benefit of this system was proven in a real police raid — when authorities in Turkey seized ExpressVPN servers, they couldn’t find any data. While my connections were totally reliable, ExpressVPN’s kill switch will stop your real identity from leaking if you use unstable public WiFi networks in Dubai.
Out of every VPN I tested for Dubai, ExpressVPN is one of the fastest options. Its local server consistently delivered speeds of 80Mbps or above, and servers in other countries were always fast. When I connected to locations close to me, my top speeds reached over 98Mbps — almost the same performance as when I don’t use a VPN.
Since it also has the largest global server network of any VPN on this list, ExpressVPN’s connection never slowed down due to overcrowding with too many other users. Regardless of which VPN protocols I used like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and others, I always got solid results.
In addition to accessing social apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, it’s possible to use ExpressVPN to unblock most streaming sites. Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Starz Play Arabia, MBC Shahid, OSN+, Abu Dhabi TV, Dubai TV, and other services allowed logins with no errors. During testing, an episode of Boxing Girls on MBC Shahid TV loaded right away and played flawlessly.
The one real con to ExpressVPN is its slightly higher cost than the other VPNs I tested. However, I found plans as low as $6.67/month if you sign up for a 1-year + 3 months subscription. That’s a 49% discount off of its other options. Plus, all its packages come with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can get an ExpressVPN risk-free. Just keep in mind that you may have to download it before arriving in the country since VPN sites are often blocked from within the UAE’s borders.
I confirmed the refund policy myself by asking for my money back via 24/7 live chat. A customer service agent responded immediately and approved my request in only a minute. I had my money back within 3 days.
ExpressVPN is compatible with: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chromebook, routers, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and more.
ExpressVPN unblocks: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV, Starz Play Arabia, Bein Connect, MBC Shahid, Abu Dhabi TV, Dubai TV, iQiyi, VIU, OSN+, SonyLiv, Eros Now, and more.
Editors' Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
2024 Update! ExpressVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $6.67 per month for the 1-year plan + 3 months free (you can save up to 49%)! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. PrivateVPN — VPN Obfuscation Lets You Use the Web in Dubai Anonymously
Key Features:
- Over 200+ Stealth VPN-enabled servers in 63 countries, with 1 in Dubai
- Military-grade 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logging policy
- Helpful support agents are available 24/7 via live chat
- Allows you to connect 10 devices at the same time
- All subscriptions have a 30-day money-back guarantee
PrivateVPN’s Stealth VPN mode obfuscates your connection so you can access the open web safely and privately in Dubai. This obfuscation stops third parties from seeing that a VPN is being used, unblocking the global web.
Your data in Dubai stays hidden with PrivateVPN’s 256-bit military-grade encryption. Its no-logs policy prevents your identity, location, activities, and other data from being recorded so they can’t be revealed. There’s also an automatic internet kill switch that shuts off communication with all networks in case your connection is unsteady. Lastly, it has built-in leak protection to prevent DNS and other types of data leaks that could reveal your real IP address.
I ran some speed tests on PrivateVPN’s server in Dubai and got solid results averaging 62Mbps. This was only slightly lower than my speeds with ExpressVPN. On nearby servers, I got impressive results between 70-80Mbps, which was fast enough for stutter-free HD video chat.
Its fast network also came in handy for lag-free streaming in 4K. PrivateVPN worked with Netflix Dubai, US, and UK, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV, Starz Play Arabia, and other local and international TV and movie services during testing. Boxing Girls loaded episodes immediately in high quality, and never unexpectedly stopped to buffer
The one potential issue with PrivateVPN is that its network is much smaller than ExpressVPN’s, covering fewer countries. If your plan is mainly to use PrivateVPN’s Dubai-based server locations this isn’t a problem, and even with fewer servers, its speeds were consistent for me.
Even with a smaller network, the VPN is a good value for the price at $2.00/month for a 3-year plan. It’s also really easy to set up, with a remote installation option where a customer service agent can complete the whole process for you.
There’s a 30-day money-back guarantee that covers all PrivateVPN plan types. That way, you can try PrivateVPN for Dubai and then get a refund quickly if you decide it isn’t for you. I tested the process via 24/7 live chat, and I had my money back in my bank account within 5 days.
PrivateVPN is compatible with: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chromebook, routers, Chrome, Firefox, and more.
PrivateVPN unblocks: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Starz Play Arabia, Bein Connect, MBC Shahid, Abu Dhabi TV, Dubai TV, iQiyi, VIU, OSN+, SonyLiv, Eros Now, and more.
2024 Update! PrivateVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $2.00 per month with the 3-year plan (you can save up to 85%)! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it’s gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. Proton VPN — The Fastest Speeds on its Server in Dubai for Seamless Apps and Streaming
Key Features:
- 4,690+ servers in over 71 countries, with the fastest speeds of any VPN server in Dubai I tested
- No-logs servers with 256-bit military-grade data encryption and a kill switch
- Get support via online tickets, email, and detailed guides
- Up to 10 simultaneous device connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee policy
Proton VPN’s server in Dubai has impressive speeds — at 123Mbps, it was much faster than other VPNs I tried for the country. Proton VPN’s other servers were fast as well — its VPN Accelerator technology, which uses redesigned VPN protocols optimized for faster data transfer. This gave me a lag-free Instagram feed, quick video uploads, bufferless streaming on Abu Dhabi TV, and more.
While the server in Dubai was more than fast enough for 4K streams, it doesn’t unblock as many streaming services as ExpressVPN. Proton VPN worked with Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Dubai TV, Starz Play Arabia, MBC Shahid, and other sites, but couldn’t access VIU or SonyLiv without errors.
To keep streaming and other activities secure, Proton VPN has military-grade 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, a kill switch, and Secure Core servers. These servers protect you from network attacks by routing your connection through multiple secure locations instead of just one. They’re run directly by Proton VPN in privacy-friendly countries like Switzerland. Even if one server was somehow breached, hackers wouldn’t be able to see your data as long as you connect to Proton VPN via the Secure Core server menu.
I found other helpful security and privacy bonuses in Proton VPN’s settings, like the NetShield malware blocker, a variety of VPN protocols, and Tor support so you can visit .onion links safely. But to make sure it really kept my data safe, I tested its servers for common data leaks like DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6, and the tests only saw Proton VPN’s server. That means my IP address stayed hidden while I was connected.
The one real con to Proton VPN is its refund policy — it’s the only VPN on this list that charges you for unused days within its 30-day refund period. However, the 2-year + 6 months plan is a good value at $4.49/month (50% off) considering Proton VPN’s performance.
There’s also a free version that lets you try the service, but its speeds are restricted. That’s why I still recommend you use Proton VPN in Dubai via a paid plan if having the fastest-possible speeds is a priority for you.
Proton VPN is compatible with: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, and more.
Proton VPN unblocks: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Starz Play Arabia, Bein Connect, MBC Shahid, Abu Dhabi TV, Dubai TV, OSN+, Eros Now, and more.
4. PureVPN — Stealth Mode Helps Access Certain Websites and Apps in Dubai
Key Features:
- 6,000+ servers in 65+ countries, with Stealth Mode to access the open web in Dubai anonymously
- Military-grade 256-bit encryption and zero-logs servers with Secure Core technology
- Get fast help via online tickets and FAQs
- Connect up to 10 devices at once with the Plus plan
- 31-day refund policy, but you have to pay for the days that you’ve already used
PureVPN’s Stealth Mode opens access to websites in Dubai that are otherwise unavailable, because proxy filters won’t be able to see that a VPN is being used. To keep your browsing activities, location, and other data anonymous, PureVPN’s servers in Dubai and abroad use 256-bit military-grade encryption. Its no-logging policy means that no information about you is ever recorded so your online activities can’t be linked to your identity. There’s also a kill switch to protect your privacy on unreliable WiFi. This prevents data leaks if you need to connect to PureVPN again after losing contact with the server.
I tested PureVPN’s speeds next, and got solid results around 60Mbps on the server in Dubai. Checking server locations in other countries, my average was 45Mbps — it was fast enough for smooth 4K TV and movie streaming, which only requires 25Mbps. When watching on the limit of 10 simultaneous devices 4K wasn’t possible, but HD still worked perfectly.
The streaming experience was smooth and error-free on Netflix Dubai, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, OSN+, and MBC Shahid live broadcasts and pre-recorded content. However, PureVPN didn’t always work with Eros Now or HBO Max. Some servers wouldn’t work, but after trying 3-4 different options it would usually load TV shows or movies without errors.
Despite the one con of not being able to unblock as many streaming sites consistently in Dubai, the 2-year + 3 months plan makes PureVPN a good value for the money at $2.03/month. It also has a 31-day money-back guarantee that makes it risk-free for you to try PureVPN in Dubai for yourself.
You can easily get your money back if you change your mind. Though it took a few days to get a reply when I tested the refund policy, I had the full subscription free back in my bank account in just over a week.
PureVPN is compatible with: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, Chrome, Edge, Brave, Firefox, and more.
PureVPN unblocks: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Bein Connect, OSN+, MBC Shahid, Abu Dhabi TV, Dubai TV, and more.
5. ZenMate — No Connection Limit to Use Servers in Dubai on All Your Devices
Key Features:
- 4,800+ servers in 91+ countries, including 1 in Dubai
- Uses military-grade 256-bit data encryption, an internet kill switch, and a no-logs policy
- Get customer support 24/7 using a chatbot, an online ticket system, or detailed FAQs
- Connect on unlimited simultaneous devices
- 30-day money-back guarantee in case you change your mind
ZenMate is the only VPN I tested for Dubai that lets you use unlimited devices at once. Other VPNs have strict limits or slow down when you’re using the maximum number of connections. With ZenMate, I could connect to the server in Dubai on 15 devices and hardly got any performance reduction.
When I connected on 1 device, I usually got speeds of 70Mbps or higher on its global server network. On 15 devices at once I got speeds between 55-60Mbps — fast enough for smooth HD video, lag-free games, and other high-bandwidth activities while I’m in Dubai.
It’s possible to use ZenMate’s server in Dubai to access Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and other global streaming sites without errors. Local services like OSN+ and Bein Connect also played content with only 2-3 seconds of initial buffering.
ZenMate even has specialized servers for international channels like Eurosport, Globo, ESPN+, BBC iPlayer, and others, to unblock them from within Dubai. Just keep in mind that accessing geo-restricted services with a VPN is illegal in Dubai and can lead to prison time, so I don’t condone it.
To keep your connection safe and your data hidden from third parties, ZenMate uses military-grade 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logging policy. Its security and privacy measures are basic but effective, giving me peace of mind that I stay anonymous while I use ZenMate’s Dubai servers.
The one con to ZenMate is its lack of live chat support and minimal security bonuses. However, its solid overall protection and unlimited devices make it a solid VPN for Dubai. It’s also a good value, with plans starting at $1.99/month.
All subscriptions are also backed by a money-back guarantee of 30 days so you can try ZenMate in Dubai without risk. I asked for a refund via 24/7 live chat, and it was approved in minutes. I had my money back in just over a week.
ZenMate is compatible with: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and more.
ZenMate unblocks: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, Bein Connect, OSN+, Dubai TV, and more.
How to Choose the Best VPN for Dubai
I tested more than 15 of the top VPNs to find which ones would work in Dubai, looking for these characteristics:
- Strong security and privacy features — To give you an anonymous connection in Dubai, I looked for VPNs with 256-bit encryption, no-logging policies, kill switches, and data leak protection.
- Global server network — The top VPNs for Dubai have servers spread throughout the world to open up as much of the global web as possible. A large, reliable network of international servers can unblock the web freely from within the country.
- Fast speeds — I tested VPNs with servers in Dubai to find out which had the fastest networks for HD streaming, sharing video on social media, and other online activities.
- Apps for popular devices — Whether you use the web on mobile, desktop, through a Smart TV, or another device, you need a VPN that works with them all. Each of my top Dubai VPNs has wide compatibility, along with a router installation option to protect devices that there’s no native app for.
- Customer support — My selections for the best Dubai VPNs either have 24/7 live chat support or quick-replying email agents to solve your issues quickly. I also searched for solid money-back guarantees or a free version to try the VPN without risking your money.
Editors’ Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
3 Easy Steps to Get a VPN in Dubai
- Download a VPN. I like ExpressVPN since it has top-shelf security for Dubai to safely and privately stream, browse, access social media, and more.
- Connect to a server. Find Dubai in the server list to access TV and movies on OSN+, Netflix Dubai, iQiyi, Dubai TV, and other streaming services.
- That’s it! Now you can browse the web safely and anonymously in Dubai.
FAQs on VPNs for Dubai
Is using a VPN legal in Dubai?
Can I use a proxy in Dubai instead of a VPN?
It’s possible, but proxy servers aren’t reliable or safe. In addition to limited unblocking capabilities, fewer IP address options means proxies fill up with users fast (unlike the best premium Dubai VPNs). This slows your connection down, ruining your browsing or streaming experience.
Since they also lack full encryption and many maintain user logs, proxies can’t be trusted to hide your data from third parties. Some are even scams to gather your personal information and sell it to data brokers — and since their ownership isn’t always transparent, you never know to whom you’re giving your data.
A VPN gives you end-to-end encryption, fast speeds, verified no-logs policies, and superior site unblocking capabilities. They also have guarantees that let you get your money back if you aren’t happy. For example, you can use PrivateVPN for free for 30 days and then get a refund approved in minutes.
How do I check if my VPN works?
Is it safe to use a free VPN in Dubai?
Some free VPNs are safe to use in Dubai, but they’re too restrictive to recommend. Limited servers, speeds, and data only makes them practical for light browsing and email, so I still advise using a top premium VPN for Dubai. To make money for their operations, a lot of free VPNs also interrupt you with irritating ads. There are even some fake free VPN apps that are actually embedded with malware to steal your data and sell it for profit.
Since even the best free VPNs don’t typically include server obfuscation, eavesdroppers in Dubai also might be able to see that you’re using one. This puts your safety at risk, as even accessing a restricted website completely by accident could get you arrested.
You don’t have to deal with those risks and restrictions if you take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee of a top Dubai VPN like PrivateVPN. I asked for my refund after testing it for a few weeks, and it was a fast and easy process.
Editors’ Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
Get a VPN (That Works) for Dubai Today!
It isn’t fair that you have to miss out on your social media, TV, movies, and news apps just because you’re in Dubai. If you happen to be a Dubai citizen and choose to depart from the country, it is your entitlement to have the capability to access your customary local services and channels even while you are overseas.
Unfortunately, most VPN providers don’t have servers in Dubai and others aren’t powerful enough to reliably unblock the open web. That’s why I did the work of testing the top VPN providers on the market to find out which ones work best in the UAE.
Out of all the VPNs I tested, ExpressVPN is my #1 pick for the best Dubai VPN. It gave me peace of mind with its integrated malware blocker along with consistent speeds and the ability to access top sites and apps in the UAE. Plus, you can get an ExpressVPN plan with no risk by using its 30-day money-back guarantee and get a refund if you decide you don’t like it.
