Best VPNs for Dubai and the UAE: our top picks for 2025

June 18, 2025 By Christine Margret No Comments 4 minutes

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers one of the most advanced digital infrastructures in the region, but it also enforces strict online censorship. Popular apps like WhatsApp calling, Skype, FaceTime, and Tinder are either restricted or completely blocked. Whether you’re an expat, a traveler, or a local resident, using a reliable VPN is essential for accessing content, maintaining online privacy, and bypassing restrictions.

But not all VPNs are built the same. Especially in regions like Dubai and the UAE, you need a provider that offers fast speeds, consistent access, and strong security features, without risking service interruptions. After testing multiple providers, we’ve identified the three best VPNs for use in the UAE. One name clearly stands out: Mena VPN.

1. Mena VPN – best overall choice for the UAE

Mena VPN is a VPN service built specifically with Middle Eastern users in mind. It’s not a generic global provider, but a service tailored for the Gulf region—and that’s where it truly shines. With over 100k positive reviews on the UAE app store, you can’t go wrong with this VPN.

One of its biggest advantages is that it actually works in the UAE, even when other major VPNs fail. MenaVPN consistently bypasses VoIP restrictions, unlocks services like WhatsApp calling, Zoom, and streaming platforms, and even grants access to dating apps like Tinder. Its infrastructure is optimized for users in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with servers placed strategically nearby to ensure low latency and high speeds.

Security-wise, MenaVPN uses AES-256 encryption, offers a strict no-logs policy, and includes automatic kill switch functionality. The user interface is clean and simple, and the app is available for all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

Most importantly, MenaVPN is discreet and stable—a key requirement in restrictive regions. It doesn’t draw unwanted attention, and its stealth mode is specifically designed to bypass Deep Packet Inspection (DPI), which is often used by UAE ISPs to detect and block VPN traffic.

In terms of pricing, MenaVPN is affordable and offers local payment options, including regional debit cards and even cryptocurrency, which adds an extra layer of anonymity.

2. FastestVPN  – premium performance, affordable plans

FastestVPN is one of the most recognized names in the VPN industry, and for good reason. It offers fast servers, excellent security protocols, and a proven track record of reliability. It performs well in the UAE in terms of speed and server stability, and can unlock services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and VoIP platforms.

Despite offering premium features, FastestVPN remains one of the most affordable VPNs. It works seamlessly in the UAE region and also supports the common billing methods. However, its services are not specifically tailored for the UAE region only. Instead, you can use FastestVPN anywhere, like any other VPN.

Whether you’re in the UAE or anywhere in the world, FastestVPN’s military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, extensive server network, unlimited bandwidth, and affordable subscriptions are hard to miss out on.

3. iProVPN– budget-friendly and beginner-friendly

If you’re looking for affordable VPNs, we’ve got another one on the list. iProVPN offers 3 subscription plans, along with a 30-day money-back guarantee. But it doesn’t offer a lifetime plan, like FastestVPN does.

However, the features are too good to pass up. It offers a good balance of features for its price, including unlimited device connections, AES-256-GCM encryption, and a built-in ad blocker. The interface is user-friendly and perfect for beginners.

It works reasonably well in the UAE, and its automatic protocols help avoid the hassle of manually switching the protocols to remain connected. Moreover, the Smart Connect feature helps keep the internet speed stable for VoIP calls or high-definition streaming.

For users who want to access basic services like WhatsApp or Netflix without breaking the bank, iProVPN is a solid choice.

Verdict: Why Mena VPN wins for Dubai and the UAE region

While all three VPNs can be used in the UAE, Mena VPN clearly stands out as the best choice. It is the only service on this list that is region-specific, built to withstand the unique challenges of Gulf internet restrictions, and optimized for both speed and stability in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

FastestVPN is powerful and affordable, and iProVPN is accessible and a reliable option. MenaVPN combines performance, discretion, affordability, and regional relevance in one package, making it the top recommendation for UAE users who value privacy, access, and peace of mind.