Why do we need a VPN in the UAE? United Arab Emirates (UAE) puts heavy censorship on the internet.
Pornography, Gambling, and many other websites with politically sensitive or religiously inappropriate content, including all Israeli domains, are banned.
Nearly every VoIP service, including Skype and SIP-based services, is blocked. WhatsApp and Snapchat’s calling features have also been blocked.
They even restrict or block some pages of Wikipedia.
If you are a resident of UAE, then you have faced all these restrictions while surfing the internet.
Well, there is some good news for you. You can easily bypass all these restrictions using a VPN or Virtual Private Network.
In this blog, I will cover every factor you should consider while choosing the Best VPN for UAE, all the risk factors involved in using a VPN, the laws governing access to the internet, and, in particular, the best VPNs you should use in UAE.
What Can a VPN Do For You?
VPN gives you the ability to change your IP address. This means you can pretend to be in another country while surfing the net from your home.
This opens a whole lot of opportunities, as now you can access all the restricted websites and content and watch videos specific to any country.
VPN provides encryption and security so that all your personal information is safe.
In short, a VPN allows you to surf the net without any concerns for your safety and privacy online.
Is VPN Legal in UAE?
There is a lot of confusion about the legality of using VPNs in the UAE.
Our advice is to exercise caution while using VPNs in the UAE. Let’s examine this matter a bit further.
The Cyber Crime Law, passed around 2012, appears only to ban the use of VPNs to access content that is considered illegal or inappropriate, such as pornography, gambling, or any anti-government or anti-religious content.
Since they have been amended and expanded, the regulatory bodies have banned fewer VPN-providing websites.
Also, a considerable population, mainly consisting of expats, uses VoIP services banned by the government using VPNs.
A large population does use VPNs, and though it is illegal in terms of law to ban VPNs, punishing VPN users is not strictly implemented.
I will still advise caution and that you choose the best available VPN without compromising on quality.
That’s why our next section is critical, as I will review the 5 best VPNs for UAE.
List Of Top 5 Best VPN for UAE & Dubai 2024
1) ExpressVPN
The list of best VPNs in UAE can quickly end with only Express VPN. You have to search no further. It is the best VPN in the UAE.
Express VPN comes with the AES 256 military-grade encryption used by many governments worldwide.
It effectively implements DNS leak protection and a kill switch, ending any possibility of a data leak.
Express VPN’s lightning-fast speed and zero-logging policy make it the best in the UAE. Its obfuscation method hides the fact that the user is using a VPN.
Furthermore, Express VPN boasts the most significant number of servers across 94 countries.
The multi-platform includes Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Express VPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee gives you the ultimate opportunity to try it.
ExpressVPN Features:
1. High-Speed Servers: ExpressVPN operates a vast network of servers in numerous countries, allowing users to connect to the internet with minimal speed loss.
2. Strong Encryption: It uses top-notch encryption protocols like AES-256 to secure your internet traffic and protect your data from prying eyes.
3. No-Logs Policy: ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy, which means they don’t store your browsing history, connection timestamps, or any other sensitive information.
4. Multiple Device Support: You can use ExpressVPN on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, desktops, and routers, with a single subscription.
5. Lightway Protocol: ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol is designed for faster speeds and better security. Lightway is comparable to the WireGuard protocol, offering faster connection times and efficient performance.
6. Global Server Network: Covers most locations worldwide, including a server in Dallas, Texas, for accessing various online content.
7. AES 256-bit Encryption: Uses the highest standard of encryption for secure and private internet browsing.
ExpressVPN Pros:
- It offers great speed for surfing, playing, and streaming.
- Full internet privacy.
- Anti-DNS leak system.
- Shared IP and no logging policy.
- Connects six devices at a time
ExpressVPN Cons:
- There are no advanced setup options.
- It’s not the cheapest option in the market.
2) Surfshark
In the UAE, Surfshark provides a fantastic VPN experience that combines cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and efficiency.
Surfshark really shines in streaming. It provides access to well-known websites like Netflix, iPlayer, and Hulu and outperforms several more expensive VPN rivals in terms of streaming quality.
Surfshark provides all you require with its intuitive and aesthetically pleasing applications.
It guarantees your online security and is fully configured for streaming.
Although there may not be many customization options, most users believe this is unnecessary.
Surfshark Features:
1. AES-256 Encryption: Surfshark uses strong encryption to protect your data, making it difficult for anyone to intercept or decipher your online communications.
2. CleanWeb: This feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, enhancing your online experience by reducing distractions and enhancing security.
3. Camouflage Mode: Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic, helping you bypass VPN blocks in certain regions.
4. Kill Switch: Surfshark includes a kill switch that cuts off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing any data leaks.
5. Unlimited Device Connections: Allows an unlimited number of simultaneous device connections.
6. GPS Location Change: Unique feature to change GPS location on Android devices.
7. Dynamic MultiHop: Customize server pairings for double VPN connections.
8. NoBorders Mode: Bypass censorship and restrictions, effective even in countries like China.
Surfshark Pros:
- Fast speed.
- Prioritizes your security and privacy.
- Some cryptocurrencies are accepted.
- Large global server presence.
Surfshark Cons:
- Some Features need a paid Version.
- Split tunneling is not available on iOS.
- Social media presence is weak.
3) IPVanish
If you want to explore VPNs other than express VPN, I recommend IPVanish.
IPVanish provides the utmost security and privacy with its AES 256 encryption and no-logging policy.
IPVanish has approximately 4000 shared IPs and servers, and the number of servers is also huge, with nearly 500 servers distributed in about 60 countries.
Another recommended feature is IP vanish’s implementation of obfuscation, which hides the VPN. This adds another layer of security above the OpenVPN protocols.
Customer care is fast, with live chat support solving your queries within minutes. All the significant platforms are included with apps available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
IPVanish Features:
1. Extensive Server Network: IPVanish operates a vast network of servers in numerous countries, allowing users to connect to servers worldwide and access geo-restricted content.
2. Zero Traffic Logs: IPVanish follows a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t keep records of your online activities, ensuring your privacy is maintained.
3. Strong Encryption: IPVanish uses AES-256 encryption to secure your internet traffic, making it difficult for anyone to intercept or decipher your data.
4. Unlimited Bandwidth: IPVanish generally offers unlimited bandwidth, allowing you to stream, download, and browse without data restrictions.
5. Device Compatibility: It works on major platforms such as Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android and can be configured on routers.
6. Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: Allows an unlimited number of devices to be connected at the same time.
IPVanish Pros:
- Unmetered device connections.
- Advanced encryption.
- Servers in 75+ regions.
- Proxy web server.
- Multiple connection protocols.
- There are no data transfer caps.
IPVanish Cons:
- It supports 24 hours a day, but tickets can take up to two days to be answered.
- Limited Service in China.
- Regular price increase.
4) NordVPN
The most impressive feature of Nord VPN is the double encryption technology it implements throughout its network. It uses 2048–bit SSL encryption to provide the highest level of security to its users.
They have nearly 1,000 servers in over 57 countries, making it one of the largest networks with VPNs. This gives users lightning-fast speed and privacy.
Zero logging, kill switch, and DNS leak protection make it highly secure and one of the best VPNs in the UAE.
If you stream HD videos, Nord VPN will connect to the most suitable server.
With all its security and privacy features, Nord VPN is a strong contender for the best VPN in the UAE.
NordVPN Features:
1. Double VPN: This feature allows you to route your internet traffic through two VPN servers for added security and anonymity.
2. CyberSec: NordVPN’s CyberSec feature blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites, enhancing your online privacy and security.
3. Kill Switch: NordVPN includes a kill switch that halts your internet connection if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, preventing data leaks.
4. Onion Over VPN: NordVPN offers integration with the Tor network, providing an additional layer of anonymity when browsing the web.
5. Streaming and P2P Support: NordVPN is excellent for streaming and P2P sharing, with optimized servers for a seamless experience.
6. Multiple Device Coverage: One NordVPN account can secure up to six devices simultaneously, offering flexibility for various devices.
NordVPN Pros:
- Superfast servers.
- Simple interface with secure servers.
- Unrestricted access to 6 devices at the time.
- Welcomes P2P traffic for fast uploads and downloads.
- Dedicated servers.
NordVPN Cons:
- NordVPN is comparatively a slow service.
- It cannot prevent ad trackers.
- There is no unlimited free plan.
- Torrenting is only supported on some servers.
5) ProtonVPN
The privacy of its users is given first priority by a trustworthy UAE VPN, and Proton VPN does just that.
Despite the task, Proton VPN goes above and beyond to secure your anonymity with its open-source software, confirmed zero-logging policy, and powerful capabilities like Secure Core servers and Tor over VPN.
The business advises using the safe Core function for maximum security, which sends your connection through an incredibly safe server before connecting to the less secure UAE server.
As a result, you can browse the internet anonymously while keeping your VPN on for all your regular online activities.
A disadvantage that should be noted is that Proton’s live chat assistance is not always available. So, if a problem occurs, there can be a small delay.
This tiny inconvenience can, however, be readily overlooked, given the significance of using the most private VPN service available.
Proton VPN is still the best option for individuals looking for the highest level of anonymity.
Proton VPN Features:
1. Split Tunneling: This feature allows you to choose which apps or websites use the VPN while others access the internet directly.
2. DNS Leak Protection: ProtonVPN ensures that your DNS queries remain private and protected from leaks.
3. Multi-Platform Support: ProtonVPN provides user-friendly apps for various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and more.
4. P2P Support: ProtonVPN allows peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing on specific servers, making it suitable for torrenting.
5. Kill Switch: This feature blocks all network traffic if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, preventing data leaks.
6. Tor Over VPN: Offers integrated support for the Tor network, allowing easy access to Onion sites.
7. High-Speed Connections: Provides high-speed servers worldwide, ensuring fast and reliable connections.
Proton VPN Pros:
- With its strong encryption and no-logs policy, it’s one of the most secure VPNs available.
- It offers a free version with unlimited data, which is a rarity among VPN services.
- It has an easy-to-navigate interface, making it suitable for beginners.
- Benefits from Switzerland’s strong privacy laws.
- Efficiently bypasses geo-restrictions and VPN blocks.
Proton VPN Cons:
- The free plan has limited servers, which can lead to overcrowded servers and slower speeds.
- The premium versions are more expensive compared to some other VPN services.
- Customer service is primarily through email, lacking instant support options like live chat.
- Some users report inconsistent speeds, especially on distant servers.
A Word Of Caution To Using VPN In The UAE:
Even a VPN can get you in trouble in UAE, so it is of the utmost importance that you use your VPN in the most secure way possible.
1. Security is the most critical aspect of any VPN, so you should use a VPN with all the security features required to work well in the UAE without getting you in trouble.
2. I cannot emphasize that you should always keep the kill switch stealth mode and DNS leak protection ON in the VPN setting.
3. To be on the safe side, you should always choose servers outside of the UAE and make sure that the VPN you are using does not fall under UAE jurisdiction.
Limitations of VPN:
VPNs can be a great tool in a country like the UAE for accessing restricted content or bypassing government restrictions. However, they do have some limitations.
Major issues come with speed. Though I have listed some of the fastest VPNs, the encryption used to scramble the data and the distance it travels across different servers decrease speed.
VPNs cannot block malware, which means they cannot protect you from viruses and malware. You should use good quality antivirus software.
They do not make you completely invisible on the Internet. Highly skilled hackers can still find you online, but a good-quality VPN can make this task extremely difficult.
FAQs
👉Why do I need a VPN in the UAE and Dubai?
In the UAE and Dubai, internet access is subject to censorship and surveillance. A VPN helps bypass geo-restrictions, access blocked websites, and maintain online privacy.
👀Can I use a free VPN in the UAE and Dubai?
While there are free VPNs available, they might not be effective in bypassing strict internet censorship in the UAE and Dubai. Paid VPNs are generally more reliable for this region.
🤷♀️Which VPNs are currently the best for the UAE and Dubai?
Popular choices include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark, known for their strong encryption, large server networks, and ability to bypass regional blocks.
💁♀️Are there any VPNs that should be avoided in the UAE and Dubai?
VPNs with poor encryption standards, a history of sharing user data, or those based in countries with data-sharing agreements with the UAE should be avoided.
✔What should I do if my VPN is blocked in the UAE or Dubai?
Switching servers or protocols often helps. Contacting the VPN’s customer support for advice specific to the region can also be effective.
Quick Links:
- Does VPN Protect Your Online Privacy?
- NordVPN Review
- PureVPN Review
- PureVPN Pricing
- Windscribe VPN Review
- Best VPNs For Small Businesses
- Best VPNs For Syria
- Best VPNs For Estonia
Conclusion: Best VPN In UAE & Dubai 2024
To conclude, I can say that I have provided you with all the information necessary regarding VPNs so that you can use them safely in the UAE.
I recommend that you do so, considering that VPNs are technically illegal in UAE and could land you in trouble.
All the VPNs mentioned above have features that will keep your privacy and anonymity safe on the internet.
DNS leak protection, kill switch, and stealth mode are necessary; you should never ignore them.
Choose VPN wisely, use them cautiously without ignoring the security feature, and you will be safe on the internet.
I hope you like our Top 5 Best VPNs for UAE & Dubai.
