In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), home to the city of Dubai, internet usage is subject to stringent regulations, making certain services inaccessible. A notable example is the voice and video calling features of the popular messaging application, WhatsApp.
A VPNs are useful to bypass these restrictions and enjoy unrestricted internet access. VPNs not only allow you to fully use applications like WhatsApp, but they also provide an added layer of security and privacy to your online activities. In this article, we will present our top recommended VPN services that offer robust performance, high-speed connectivity, and superior security features, specifically tailored for use in Dubai.
- ExpressVPN: Ultra-fast Internet Speeds
- NordVPN: The Ultimate Balance of Price and Internet Speed
- SurfShark
: Impressive Experience with Fast-growing Emerging VPN - CyberGhost: Fast Netflix Streaming, 45-Day Satisfaction Guarantee
- Private Internet Accesss: A Highly Popular VPN Service at a Low Price
Best VPN Services for Dubai
Here are some excellent VPN services we recommend.
ExpressVPN: Ultra-fast Internet Speeds
| Prices | 1-Month: $12.95 6-Months: $9.99/month 12-Months: $6.67/month |
| No-log-policy and kill switch | Yes |
| Countries and servers | 94/3,000+ |
| Money-back Guarantee | 30 days |
| 24/7 customer support | Yes |
| Maximum devices supported | 8 |
| Headquarter | British Virgin Islands |
ExpressVPN has some of the fastest internet speeds of the VPNs we have used. ExpressVPN is consistently found by review sites to be one of the fastest VPNs. Therefore ExpressVPN receives great reviews and popularity. With a network of over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, users have a wide range of options for changing their IP address to different locations. ExpressVPN prioritizes user privacy with a secure no-logs policy and offers additional features such as a kill switch and 24/7 customer support.
After you’ve registered with ExpressVPN, you can use it to easily browse the internet just by downloading their app.
- Place a high importance on internet speed
- Want to use the VPN with the greatest market popularity
\30-day Money-Back Guarantee/
NordVPN: The Ultimate Balance of Price and Internet Speed
| Prices (standard plan) | 1-Month: $11.99 12-Months: $4.99/month 24-Months: $3.99/month |
| No-log-policy and kill switch | Yes |
| Countries and servers | 60/5,500+ |
| Money-back Guarantee | 30 days |
| 24/7 customer support | Yes |
| Maximum devices supported | 6 |
| Headquarter | Republic of Panama |
NordVPN has established itself as a leading VPN service, offering an excellent balance of price, internet speed, server coverage, and global reach. As a result, NordVPN has gained the largest market share worldwide. It consistently receives positive reviews from top experts in the industry. With a vast network of over 5,500 servers across 60 countries, NordVPN provides a wide range of options for changing your IP address to various locations. NordVPN prioritizes user privacy with a secure no-logs policy, along with additional features such as a kill switch and 24/7 customer support.
After you’ve registered, you can easily browse the internet using NordVPN just by downloading their app.
- Want to balance price and internet speed
- Want to use the VPN with the highest market popularity
\30-day Money-Back Guarantee/
Surfshark: Impressive Experience with Fast-growing Emerging VPN
| Prices (standard plan) | 1-Month: $12.95 12-Months: $3.99/month 24-Months: $2.39/month |
| No-log-policy and kill switch | Yes |
| Countries and servers | 100/3,200+ |
| Money-back Guarantee | 30 days |
| 24/7 customer support | Yes |
| Maximum devices supported | Unlimited |
| Headquarter | Netherlands |
Surfshark, established in 2018, has quickly gained a strong reputation and popularity worldwide despite being a relatively new service. While it may have some occasional delays in connecting and slightly weaker region-blocking capabilities compared to ExpressVPN and NordVPN, it offers significant advantages. By opting for the 24-month plan, you can obtain Surfshark at a much lower price than ExpressVPN and NordVPN. Additionally, Surfshark provides unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you and your family to connect and use all your devices simultaneously. With over 3,200 servers in 99 countries, Surfshark offers a wide range of options. It also boasts a private and secure no-logs policy, a kill switch, and 24/7 customer support.
After you’ve registered, you can easily browse the internet using Surfshark by downloading their app.
- Who want to some constant quality and budget
- Who want to connect with lots of devices
\30-day Money-Back Guarantee/
CyberGhost: Fast Netflix Streaming, 45-Day Satisfaction Guarantee
| Prices | 1-Month: $12.99 6-Months: $6.99/month 24-Months: $2.11/month |
| No-log-policy and kill switch | Yes |
| Countries and servers | 91/9,500+ |
| Money-back Guarantee | 1-Month: 14 days 6-Month/24-Month: 45 days |
| 24/7 customer support | Yes |
| Maximum devices supported | 7 |
| Headquarter | Romania |
CyberGhost is a powerful VPN service that excels at unblocking websites. With streaming-optimized servers dedicated to Netflix, you can enjoy ultra-fast speeds and buffer-free streaming. CyberGhost boasts a vast network of 9,200 servers across 91 countries, making it an excellent choice for unblocking Netflix in various countries. Additionally, you can take advantage of its cost-effectiveness and a 45-day money-back guarantee, surpassing the standard 30-day period, by opting for the 24-month plan.
- Want to expand your Netflix experience across borders
- Seeking an ample trial period
\45-day Money-Back Guarantee /
Private Internet Access: A Highly Popular VPN Service at a Low Price
| Prices | 1-Month: $11.95 12-Months: $3.33/month 36-Months: $2.03/month |
| No-log-policy and kill switch | Yes |
| Countries and servers | 84/Undisclosed |
| Money-back Guarantee | 30 days |
| 24/7 customer support | Yes |
| Maximum devices supported | Unlimited |
| Headquarter | United States |
Private Internet Access, commonly abbreviated as PIA, has secured the third position in market popularity following ExpressVPN and NordVPN. Its established reputation has enabled PIA to capture a significant market share worldwide. Particularly known for its relatively long-standing presence, PIA offers competitive pricing, making it a more affordable choice compared to ExpressVPN and NordVPN. Applying for the 36-month plan, in particular, allows you to obtain PIA at a much cheaper price.
Reference: https://vpnpro.com/blog/vpn-market-share-overview/
- Who prioritize affordability and popularity
\30-day Money-Back Guarantee /
Tips to Choose the Best VPN for Dubai
When choosing the best VPN for Dubai, there are several key factors you should take into account. Here are the three considerations.
- Popularity
- Privacy and Security
- Number of Servers
Popularity
Opting for a VPN with a proven track record is a prudent choice for use in Dubai. A substantial user base often signifies reliability. VPNs lacking in reliability may falter in circumventing government regulations or may experience unstable connections. Conversely, a reputable VPN guarantees consistent connectivity, facilitating the comfortable use of messaging apps even within Dubai.
Privacy and Security
Privacy and security are paramount when employing a VPN in Dubai. High-level encryption ensures your online activities remain unknown to UAE government authorities. Furthermore, if the VPN adheres to a strict no-log policy, it guarantees a high degree of anonymity. There will be no record of your browsing history on the VPN server, eliminating the possibility of retrieval in case of an incident. A VPN service that prioritizes both security and privacy allows for worry-free usage in Dubai.
Number of Servers
In a country like the UAE, where VPN usage is restricted, the availability of your VPN server can be unpredictable. However, a VPN service with a substantial number of servers ensures that even if some servers are regulated, you can connect through others. Therefore, the number of servers is a significant factor in choosing a VPN.
FAQ
Is it legal to use a VPN in UAE?
Yes, it is legal to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) in the UAE, including Dubai, as long as it is not used for criminal activities. Businesses often rely on VPNs for secure communications and accessing their internal networks, which is permitted under UAE regulations.
However, using a VPN to mask your real IP address for illegal purposes, such as committing a crime or preventing its discovery, is prohibited. Violations can result in imprisonment of up to a month or financial penalties ranging from 500 thousand to 2 million AED (over $500,000). Additional penalties may be incurred if a crime is committed while using a VPN.
It’s important to note that certain types of content, such as gambling and pornography, are prohibited in the UAE, and accessing such content, even via a VPN, is considered illegal.
Why doesn’t the UAE government allow the use of WhatsApp calls?
The inability to use WhatsApp calls in the UAE is due to a policy issued by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) of the United Arab Emirates. The specific reasons are not explicitly stated, but it is believed to be due to the government’s desire to monitor internet calls, which is not possible with the end-to-end encryption used by WhatsApp. Additionally, the government aims to promote the domestic telecommunications industry, and free international apps like WhatsApp pose competition.
While ZOOM and Google Meet are currently usable, they may face restrictions in the future. It’s important to note that using a VPN to access restricted content should be done responsibly and in accordance with UAE laws.
Which VPN works in UAE for WhatsApp calls?
While several VPN services can potentially work for WhatsApp calls in the UAE, ExpressVPN stands out as the most recommended option. This is due to its robust features and consistent performance even under stringent internet regulations.
While other providers may work, we believe that ExpressVPN offers both citizens and travelers the best chance at accessing what they want when in the UAE. Its reliable performance, strong security features, and ability to bypass VPN detection make it an ideal choice for using WhatsApp calls in the UAE.
Conclusion
- Legal Use of VPNs in the UAE: It is legal to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) in the UAE, including Dubai, as long as it is not used for criminal activities. However, using a VPN to mask your real IP address for illegal purposes, such as committing a crime or preventing its discovery, is prohibited. Certain types of content, such as gambling and pornography, are also prohibited in the UAE, and accessing such content, even via a VPN, is considered illegal.
- Choosing the Best VPN for Dubai: When selecting a VPN for use in Dubai, consider its popularity (or proven track record), privacy and security measures, and the number of servers it offers. A VPN with a substantial user base often signifies reliability, while high-level encryption and a strict no-log policy ensure your online activities remain private. A large number of servers increases the likelihood of always having an accessible server, even if some are regulated.
- Recommended VPN for WhatsApp Calls in the UAE: Among several VPN services that can potentially work for WhatsApp calls in the UAE, ExpressVPN stands out due to its robust features and consistent performance, even under stringent internet regulations. Its reliable performance, strong security features, and ability to bypass VPN detection make it an ideal choice for using WhatsApp calls in the UAE.
- ExpressVPN: Ultra-fast Internet Speeds
- NordVPN: The Ultimate Balance of Price and Internet Speed
- SurfShark: Impressive Experience with Fast-growing Emerging VPN
- CyberGhost: Fast Netflix Streaming, 45-Day Satisfaction Guarantee
- Private Internet Accesss: A Highly Popular VPN Service at a Low Price