Best VPNs for Dubai and the UAE: our top picks for 2025
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. ExpressVPN – premium performance, high price
ExpressVPN is one of the most recognized names in the VPN industry, and for good reason. It offers fast servers across 94 countries, excellent security protocols (including Lightway), 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.
However, it comes at a cost. ExpressVPN is significantly more expensive than MENA VPN, and for users in the Gulf region, the lack of regional billing options can be frustrating. Moreover, while it works in the UAE, it sometimes experiences brief outages due to government-level detection. Its customer support is responsive, but the service lacks the regional focus that MenaVPN offers.
In short, ExpressVPN is a powerful tool, but it may be too general-purpose for users specifically in the UAE.
3. Surfshark – budget-friendly and beginner-friendly
If you’re looking for a more affordable global VPN option, Surfshark is worth considering. It offers a good balance of features for its price, including unlimited device connections, AES-256-GCM encryption, and CleanWeb ad-blocking. The interface is user-friendly and perfect for beginners.
Surfshark works reasonably well in the UAE, though it may require manual configuration or switching between protocols (like OpenVPN and WireGuard) to stay connected. In some cases, servers slow down during peak hours, especially for VoIP calls or high-definition streaming. The lack of Middle Eastern servers can also lead to higher latency compared to MenaVPN.
Nevertheless, for users who want to access basic services like WhatsApp or Netflix without breaking the bank, Surfshark is a solid choice. Just keep in mind that it’s not always consistent, especially under more aggressive network filtering conditions.
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.
ExpressVPN is powerful but pricey, and Surfshark is accessible but less reliable under pressure. 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.