Truecaller is Banned in the UAE — Here’s a Solution (2024)

Rosemary S Siluvai Anthony
Last Updated by Rosemary S Siluvai Anthony on September 21, 2023

Truecaller may be banned in the UAE, but that doesn’t mean the app is completely inaccessible. With a VPN, the caller identification tool can be used anywhere to keep in touch with friends and family without annoying calls from fraudsters.

A VPN encrypts your connections and assigns you a new IP address, giving you rightful access to your Truecaller account from abroad. However, most VPNs either aren’t strong enough to work in firewalled countries or bypass restrictions on blocked apps.

Of all VPNs I tested, ExpressVPN is the best for Truecaller in the UAE. Its TrustedServer network makes it impossible for third parties to see your calling data. You can try ExpressVPN for Truecaller, and you can get a refund within 30 days if you aren’t pleased.

Get ExpressVPN for Truecaller

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Using Truecaller in the UAE

  1. ExpressVPN — Top VPN with TrustedServer technology to keep Truecaller connections private and a 30-day refund period to get ExpressVPN risk-free.
  2. CyberGhost — Accesses Truecaller securely on risky and unstable public WiFi networks, but long-distance connections can be a bit slower.
  3. Private Internet Access — Largest global server network to access Truecaller quickly, but its iOS app doesn’t support split tunneling to multitask while calling.
  4. PrivateVPN — Stealth Mode unblocks Truecaller in the UAE without being detected, but it doesn’t have a kill switch in the iOS app.
  5. IPVanish — Allows unlimited device connections, but doesn’t accept cryptocurrency payments for anonymous sign-up.

Find out more about the best VPNs for using Truecaller in the UAE.

Use Truecaller with ExpressVPN

Quick Guide: 3 Easy Steps to Use Truecaller in the UAE

  1. Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN to get maximum privacy on Truecaller in the UAE.
  2. Connect to a server. Connect to a server in a nearby country where Truecaller isn’t blocked like Egypt or the US.
  3. That’s it! Now it’s possible to use Truecaller in the UAE.

Try ExpressVPN with Truecaller

Best VPNs for Truecaller in the UAE

1. ExpressVPN — #1 VPN for Truecaller With TrustedServer Technology to Keep UAE Call and Text Data Private

Key Features:

  • 3,000+ servers in 105 countries where Truecaller works including Egypt, the US, and the UK
  • Military-grade 256-bit encryption, TrustedServer technology, a no-logs policy, and a Network Lock kill switch to safeguard your security and privacy on Truecaller
  • Customer support includes video tutorials, 24/7 live chat, and email
  • Connect up to 8 devices at the same time
  • A 30-day money-back guarantee that I confirmed the VPN honors

ExpressVPN is the best VPN to unblock Truecaller safely and privately in the UAE as its TrustedServer network uses the most advanced technology to keep your calling data from being logged. Since TrustedServers run on RAM, they physically can’t store any information about you that can be spied on, leaked, or hacked. I’m also comforted to know the technology was independently audited by PwC to confirm that it really works. Plus, my tests found that ExpressVPN has lots of other standout features like:

  • ExpressVPN passed my IP leak prevention tests which confirmed that my real location wouldn’t leak past encryption, causing firewalls to block Truecaller
  • 256-bit military-grade encryption makes sure no hackers or other third parties can spy on your connection to see your calls and messages
  • A Network Lock protects your privacy even on an unstable internet connection in the UAE
  • Its location in the British Virgin Islands is outside the 14 Eyes Alliance of countries that share your calling data with foreign intelligence agencies
  • Perfect Forward Secrecy protects your data from cyberattacks in the UAE by changing your encryption keys for every message and call

During tests, ExpressVPN’s long-distance server in Australia worked well for rapid texting with lots of gifs and video-sharing. Despite being 7,000 miles away from the UAE, the speed was above 200Mbps for smooth group chats, even with 5 people messaging at once. ExpressVPN servers in other locations also delivered excellent speeds above 300Mbps.

Screenshot of ExpressVPN speed tests showing servers in the US, UK, Australia, and Germany
ExpressVPN’s high-speed connections prevent delays for your text messages and video calls

I also liked that ExpressVPN’s speed didn’t decrease by more than 7%, even when I connected on a maximum of 8 devices. This is a slight drop compared to other VPNs and made for perfectly smooth video calls. Plus, it took me less than 5 minutes to install ExpressVPN on my iPhone, connect to a server, and begin blocking spam calls.

The one small disadvantage of ExpressVPN is its price, which is higher than other VPNs on this list. However, its audited servers and privacy protection technology are worth the price. I recommend ExpressVPN’s 1-year + 3 months plan since it’s the most affordable at $6.67 per month.

There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee on all subscriptions. Though I was happy with the VPN, I asked for a refund via its 24/7 live chat to test the guarantee and my request was approved in under 1 minute. I got my money back in 4 days.

ExpressVPN works on: Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, Chrome, Firefox, routers, Amazon Fire TV, gaming consoles, and more.

Get ExpressVPN for Truecaller

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. CyberGhost — Stay Safe on Truecaller Even on Unprotected Public WiFi Networks in the UAE

Key Features:

  • 11,800+ servers in 100+ countries including Egypt and the US
  • Military-grade 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, a strict no-log policy, and WiFi protection to use Truecaller safely on public networks
  • Get help via 24/7 live chat, support tickets, and FAQs
  • One subscription allows up to 7 connections
  • 45-day money-back guarantee

CyberGhost’s WiFi protection privately unblocks Truecaller in the UAE even on vulnerable networks. This feature automatically activates the VPN every time your device tries to connect to a wireless hotspot, preventing any communication that could reveal your calling data or real location. It’s especially handy if you’re like me and travel in the UAE with a smartphone, constantly searching for networks.

Screenshot of CyberGhost's Smart rules settings to activate WiFi protection in the Windows app
Keep your calling data safe in the UAE using CyberGhost’s WiFi protection settings

In addition to military-grade 256-bit encryption, my CyberGhost tests shows it has all the essential privacy and security features for the UAE like:

  • A no-log policy regularly audited by Deloitte to guarantee your Truecaller metadata is never saved or shared
  • DNS leak protection prevents your location in the UAE from being exposed to prying eyes
  • An automatic kill switch disables your connection when WiFi is unsteady to keep your Truecaller activities private
  • Specialized NoSpy privacy servers owned by CyberGhost to eliminate third-party security risks, and located in Romania where the government doesn’t track you online

I tested CyberGhost’s apps on a limit of 7 devices by connecting to a server in Turkey and making a Truecaller video call on each device. Despite moments of lag using the maximum number of devices, it was never bad enough to ruin a call.

If you have any questions while installing CyberGhost or using it to unblock Truecaller, you can reach its live chat support team 24/7 to get help in just a few seconds. I asked which servers worked with Truecaller, and I got a helpful answer in just a minute.

To find out if CyberGhost is fast enough for seamless voice calling, I tested nearby servers in Egypt and got a drop of only 7-10Mbps compared to when I wasn’t using a VPN. That meant I had no lag, poor audio quality, or dropped connections during my voice calls. On long-distance servers, the other person’s voice was occasionally hard to hear, so I recommend using servers in nearby countries.

For the best deal, try CyberGhost’s 2-year + 4 months plan for $2.03 per month. It comes with one of the longest money-back guarantees I found — 45 days. If you change your mind, it’s easy to get a refund. I tested the process via 24/7 live chat, and a support agent approved my request within a minute. I had my money back in 5 days.

CyberGhost works on: Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, Chrome, Firefox, routers, Amazon Fire TV, and more.

Get CyberGhost for Truecaller

2024 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 84%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.

3. PIA — Large Network of Global Servers for Steady and Fast Truecaller Connections

Key Features:

  • 35,000+ servers in 91+ countries including Egypt to easily access Truecaller
  • Military-grade 256-bit encryption, no-log policy, and a kill switch to protect your calling and messaging from hackers
  • 24/7 live chat, email support, and online knowledge base
  • Make Truecaller calls on up to unlimited devices simultaneously
  • 30-day money-back guarantee makes getting refunds easy

PIA has the largest global network for steady Truecaller connections, with 35,000+ servers in 91+ countries. This gives you lots of alternatives in case your server slows down due to congestion from too many users logging on at once. The huge selection of IP addresses prevented overcrowding, so my speeds stayed fast at all times of day on servers in Egypt and India.

Though the large server base is impressive, PIA’s privacy and security features are excellent as well:

  • You can choose AES 256-bit encryption to prioritize security over speed, or AES 128-bit encryption when you need to maximize Truecaller’s performance for video calls
  • An Advanced Kill Switch prevents your smartphone or other devices from using internet networks until the VPN is connected
  • MACE blocks dangerous malware and suspicious sites from loading in case you tap a malicious link in a Truecaller text message
  • PIA lets you pay anonymously with third-party gift cards from Starbucks, Walmart, and more
Screenshot of PIA's gift card payment option on its subscription page
You can pay for PIA with a major gift card to get the VPN completely privately

When I connected on PIA’s maximum of unlimited simultaneous devices, it didn’t affect Truecaller’s audio or video call quality. Additionally, I could install both Android and iOS apps in less than 5 minutes without help from PIA’s online guides or a customer support agent. Connecting to a server only took a few seconds.

Unfortunately, PIA’s iOS app doesn’t support split tunneling. This makes it impossible to use an encrypted connection to unblock Truecaller on an iPhone while making a local web search at the same time using your default connection. This wasn’t a big deal, since changing servers only takes a few seconds if I want to switch to an IP address in Dubai to access local sites.

The VPN also has a very competitive price — the 2-year + 4 months plan is the most affordable at just $2.03 per month. Plus, all plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee to make it easier to test PIA with Truecaller in the UAE.

I sent PIA an email to ask for a refund, including details like the order number from my confirmation email. An agent replied within an hour to ask why I was canceling, and I said I decided to get a different VPN. PIA refunded my money in a week.

PIA works on: Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, Chrome, Firefox, routers, and more.

Get PIA for Truecaller

2024 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 83%)! This is a limited offer, so grab it now before it's gone! See more information on this offer here!

4. PrivateVPN — Stealth Mode Reliably Bypasses UAE Firewalls to Unblock Truecaller

Key Features:

  • 200+ servers in 63+ countries to unblock Truecaller from anywhere
  • Military-grade 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and zero-logs servers
  • Customer support via live chat, email, and remote desktop
  • Connect to servers in the UAE on 10 devices at once
  • 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans

PrivateVPN’s Stealth Mode sneaks past VPN blocks to access Truecaller in the UAE. This feature disguises VPN traffic to make it look like regular data to prevent ISPs like Etisalat from interfering with the connection.

Screenshot of PrivateVPN's Stealth VPN tab showing the button to toggle VPN obfuscation

PrivateVPN’s stealth mode disguises VPN traffic so that UAE ISPs like Etisalat can’t recognize it

In addition to Stealth Mode to bypass firewalls, PrivateVPN also has these security and privacy features:

  • Perfect Forward Secrecy continuously changes your military-grade 256-bit encryption keys so that hackers can’t intercept your Truecaller data
  • Anonymous cryptocurrency payment keeps you totally anonymous in the UAE, since not even PrivateVPN will know you bought the service
  • Leak protection to prevent DNS, WebRTC, and other data leaks that could expose your real IP address or other data during Truecaller voice or video calls

Though it’s not as fast as ExpressVPN, PrivateVPN’s speeds can handle clear voice calls on Truecaller. Even when I tested the servers in Romania about 4,000 miles away, I had smooth audio and no issues while sending photos to friends via text.

One of PrivateVPN’s most unique features is that its live chat support is staffed by actual developers. With real experts answering your questions, they can handle more technical queries like which port unblocks Truecaller in the UAE. I also like that you can safely use Truecaller on up to 10 devices without having to log out of PrivateVPN’s apps.

Unfortunately, PrivateVPN doesn’t have a kill switch in its iOS app. However, during my tests, none of my Truecaller data was ever revealed. A kill switch is important in the case that there’s a problem with your network connection. To use Trucaller privately in the UAE, I recommend the Android app since it comes packaged with a kill switch.

If you only need a VPN to use Truecaller during a short trip to the UAE, PrivateVPN has one of the best monthly plans with very affordable prices. But to spend even less, the 3-year option is only $2.00 per month.

Regardless of your subscription, you have 30 days to try PrivateVPN with Truecaller in the UAE. I put the policy to the test by asking for a refund via email, and got a reply within an hour. I had my money back in just a week.

PrivateVPN works on: Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, Chrome, Firefox, and more.

Get PrivateVPN for Truecaller

5. IPVanish — Use Truecaller Securely in the UAE on All Your Devices With No Limits

Key Features:

  • 2,400+ servers in at least 55 countries to unblock Truecaller globally
  • Military-grade 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection keep your Truecaller data hidden and secure
  • 24/7 live chat, email support, FAQs, and setup guides
  • Allows unlimited simultaneous device connections in the UAE and beyond
  • 30-day money-back guarantee for easy refunds

IPVanish unblocks Truecaller on unlimited devices simultaneously in the UAE so your calls will never be cut off due to being connected on too many platforms. I connected to PIA servers and used Truecaller on 7 smartphones at once. Each one easily handled voice calls without dropping them to disconnect the VPN due to excessive bandwidth, which would have caused my connection to become visible to hackers.

Aside from a couple of seconds of lag during video calls, I got high-quality video and audio on Truecaller with no call drops when I tested IPVanish’s servers in Germany, France and the Netherlands.

The VPN also safeguards your privacy and security for calling and texting in the UAE with:

  • Powerful military-grade 256-bit encryption with secure protocols including OpenVPN and IKEv2, to conceal Truecaller usage in the UAE
  • Zero IPv6, DNS or WebRTC leaks to keep your real IP address, calls, and messages completely hidden from eavesdroppers
  • Malware blocking with VIPRE, an integrated antivirus that’s included when you sign up for the yearly plan

Screenshot of IPVanish's yearly plan, with pricing and a list of VIPRE antivirus features

Combine your VPN subscription with IPVanish’s antivirus to stay safer from malware on Truecaller

Since IPVanish doesn’t allow cryptocurrency payment, you won’t be able to buy it anonymously before you go to the UAE. However, you can sign up with any major credit card or PayPal. I did some research to find the best deals, and the 2-year plan costs the least — $2.99 per month.

This subscription also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try IPVanish with Truecaller in the UAE without worry. To test the guarantee, I canceled my account on IPVanish’s website and the refund was processed automatically. It only took 4 days for the money to be returned to my account.

IPVanish works on: Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, Chrome, Firefox, and more.

Get IPVanish for Truecaller

Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for Truecaller

Number of Servers Server Countries Device limits Military-Grade Encryption Best Subscription Plan
ExpressVPN 3,000+ 105 8 1-year + 3 months plan: $6.67/month
CyberGhost 11,800+ 100 7 2-year + 4 months plan: $2.03/month
PIA 35,000+ 91 unlimited 2-year + 4 months plan: $2.03/month
PrivateVPN 200+ 63 10 3-year plan: $2.00/month
IPVanish 2,400+ 55 Unlimited plan: $2.99/month

Try ExpressVPN with Truecaller

How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for Truecaller

I used these criteria to test all the top VPNs in 2024 and find the best ones for Truecaller:

  • Truecaller unblocking ability — The Emirati ISP Etisalat blocks VPN traffic, so most either don’t work in the UAE or aren’t effective at assessing Truecaller. Extensive testing proved that every VPN on this list would work.
  • Strong security and privacy features — Military-grade 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and IP leak protection protect your right to privately access your Truecaller account from anywhere without revealing your real location.
  • Reliable connections — Since you never know when a country near the UAE will block Truecaller, your VPN needs reliable servers even in faraway locations to keep the app working.
  • Fast speeds — All the VPNs on this list had fast speeds for data-intensive Truecaller features like voice and video calls.
  • Customer support — To make sure you can get fast help without worrying about the UAE’s time zone, I only picked VPNs with 24/7 live chat support.
  • Money-back guarantee — You should be able to get your money back if you change your mind about a VPN. During my tests, every VPN on this list refunded my money quickly and without hassle.

Get ExpressVPN for Truecaller in the UAE

FAQs About Truecaller in the UAE

Is Truecaller really safe?

Yes, it’s safe to use, but it’s essential to combine it with one of the best VPNs to unblock Truecaller in the UAE because the app is banned locally. Trying to access it will trigger internet firewalls and cause errors.

I don’t condone using a VPN to bypass censorship or government firewalls, so be sure to research and understand the law before using a VPN in the UAE.

Does Truecaller work on iPhones?

Yes, it works with iPhones even in countries where the iOS app is banned — as long as you follow the right steps to use Truecaller in the UAE.

If it isn’t working on your iPhone, the most common issue is that Truecaller isn’t enabled by default. Here’s how to fix it:

  1. Go to “Settings”
  2. Scroll down and select “Phone”
  3. Select “Call Blocking & Identification”
  4. Toggle all options for Truecaller under “Call Identification Apps”

Sometimes, the call identification setting above doesn’t show on your iPhone. Try reinstalling Truecaller or restarting your device if this happens to you. Then, try this if Caller ID still doesn’t work:

  1. Go to “Settings”
  2. Select “Notification”
  3. Scroll down and select “Truecaller”
  4. Activate “Allow Notifications”
  5. Click the “Lock Screen,” “Notification Center,” and “Banners” boxes
  6. Turn on “Sounds” and “Badges”

Besides iPhones, Truecaller also works on Android.

What are the best Truecaller alternatives for the UAE?

I’ve listed a few here. Whether using one of these or Truecaller, one of the top VPNs like ExpressVPN keeps calls and messages private in the UAE.

Truecaller Alternatives Pros Cons
Whoscall
  • Uses AI to predict and flag potential scammers
  • Works with authorities to share fraud numbers
  • Certified by the ISO 27001 and 27701 standards
  • Intrusive popup ads
  • Poor customer support
  • Doesn’t block spam texts
Hiya
  • Easy to use native app
  • Displays name, logo, and call reason with Branded Call
  • Spam calls are categorized into 15 groups to help you decide when to answer
  • Poor integration, requires a separate app
ShowCaller
  • Provides detailed caller information including photos
  • Responsive customer support
  • Takes up less phone storage space
  • Only lets you search by numbers, not names
  • Intrusive ads
CallApp
  • Incognito mode to make anonymous calls
  • Reminder feature helps you remember important calls
  • Car mode for hands-free answering
  • Some functions aren’t intuitive
  • Call recorder doesn’t always work properly

Why isn’t Truecaller working?

Only one of the best VPNs can unblock Truecaller in the UAE as the app is blocked by national firewalls. If the VPN is not the issue, then try the following steps to get Truecaller working:

  • Truecaller hangs or stalls — Restarting your phone usually resolves this, so try it first.
  • Server is busy or down — When Truecaller’s server is busy or under maintenance, it might not work. Wait for a while and then try again.
  • Check internet connection — Many of Truecaller’s features rely on the internet, so check if you have at least 3G service or a strong WiFi connection.
  • Clear the app’s cache — Clear the app’s cache by going to Phone Settings > Apps > Truecaller (storage) > Clear Cache
  • Update Truecaller app — Older versions of Truecaller can sometimes stop working so try updating to the latest version.
  • Update device OS — Check if your device’s OS is up to date and update accordingly.

If these don’t work, submit a ticket to Truecaller’s customer support team.

Can I use a free VPN to unblock Truecaller?

No, not in the UAE. Although the best free VPNs can access many sites and services, they have strict limits that make reliable calling impossible. Without subscription fees, free VPNs can’t invest in technology capable of bypassing the UAE’s firewalls to unblock Truecaller.

Free VPNs also have smaller networks that aren’t usually located near the Middle East. With so few options and no servers located near the UAE, free VPNs are too slow to work well or they fill up fast with users and cut off your calls.

What’s worse, a few free VPNs contain malware that gives hackers access to your data. Others secretly sell your information, violating your security and privacy.

Free VPNs aren’t worth the risk, so I recommend taking advantage of a premium VPN’s refund policy. For example, you can use CyberGhost for free with its 45-day money-back guarantee and ask for a refund when you’re no longer in the UAE.

Screenshot of a user successfully requesting a refund from CyberGhost over live chat with the 30-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost’s refund policy lets you use the VPN for free while you’re in the UAE

Try CyberGhost with Truecaller

Unblock Truecaller Easily With a Trusted VPN

You rely on Truecaller to keep in touch with friends and family and avoid annoying spam calls, but it’s blocked in the UAE. The easiest way to unblock the app in the country is with a VPN, which encrypts traffic and gets past the UAE’s firewalls.

But with a low-quality VPN, your Truecaller connection data may become vulnerable to eavesdroppers in the UAE. Lacking a high-quality VPN, your internet speeds could significantly decrease, potentially hindering your ability to have consistent voice or video calls during your travels.

ExpressVPN is the best to unblock Truecaller in the UAE as its TrustedServer technology ensures that none of your data is ever logged. Plus, it’s the fastest of every VPN I’ve tested. You can even get ExpressVPN for Truecaller risk-free and if you’re not satisfied for any reason, you have 30 days to get a refund.


Summary: Best VPNs for Truecaller in the UAE in 2024

Top Ranked Top Choice
ExpressVPN
$6.67 / month Save 49%
CyberGhost VPN
$2.03 / month Save 84%
Private Internet Access
$2.03 / month Save 83%
PrivateVPN
$2.00 / month Save 83%
IPVanish VPN
$2.99 / month Save 77%
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