In 2025, living in Dubai isn’t just about luxury cars, high-rises, and endless sunshine. It’s also about navigating strict internet restrictions while trying to stay connected to the rest of the world.
That’s where VPNs come in — and no, not all of them work here anymore.
But some do. And behind those VPN services are real people — tech teams, everyday users, expats, freelancers, and even local professionals who rely on secure, fast, and undetected access to global content. This isn’t just a list. It’s a peek into the lifestyle, struggles, and digital victories of those still making it work in Dubai’s tightly regulated internet space.
Life Behind the Firewall: Why VPNs Matter in Dubai
The UAE has one of the strictest internet policies in the world. From VoIP services like WhatsApp calling and FaceTime to certain news platforms and streaming services — access is limited or completely blocked. This poses serious challenges, especially for expats living far from home, remote workers, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads.
But people adapt.
VPNs have become an invisible lifeline for many, helping them reconnect with families, manage businesses across borders, and stream a little Netflix after a long day. The catch? Not every VPN survives the UAE’s powerful internet filters.
The Struggle to Stay Connected
In the last two years, the UAE has ramped up efforts to block VPNs that don’t comply with local regulations. Several big names — once reliable — now frequently get detected and shut down. Many Dubai residents have faced frustration: paying for premium VPNs that suddenly stop working or slow to a crawl.
Mohammed Rizwan, a Pakistani freelance developer living in Al Barsha, shared his experience:
“I was using a popular VPN for nearly a year, and overnight it just stopped. I couldn’t access my GitHub clients, and calls back home were impossible. I felt cut off from everything.”
For many, it’s not just about entertainment — it’s about work, relationships, mental health, and maintaining a sense of freedom in an otherwise digitally restricted world.
But Some VPNs Still Work — And Work Well
In mid-2025, a handful of VPNs have managed to stay ahead of the blocks. They’ve evolved, adapted, and invested in stealth technology to keep their users protected and connected. These are the top performers, based on recent user reviews, real-time testing, and feedback from people actually using them in Dubai.
1. ExpressVPN: The Gold Standard That Refuses to Fall
Why it works: ExpressVPN continues to be the most trusted name for Dubai users. Its stealth servers and automatic obfuscation technology allow it to bypass deep packet inspection (DPI), which is what UAE uses to detect VPNs.
Who’s using it: Business travelers, expats, and remote workers who prioritize speed and reliability.
What they say:
“I’ve used ExpressVPN for four years now in Dubai. It’s the only one that never fails me,” says Maria Santiago, a Filipino virtual assistant based in Downtown Dubai.
Lifestyle fit: Great for streamers, corporate employees, and online workers who need smooth, secure access 24/7.
2. NordVPN: Fast, Secure, and Still Flying Under the Radar
Why it works: NordVPN uses obfuscated servers specifically designed to beat censorship-heavy countries. It’s regularly updated, and their customer support even advises users on which servers to try in the UAE.
Who’s using it: Remote freelancers, digital nomads, and gamers looking for strong encryption and good speed.
What they say:
“I use Nord on my phone and laptop. It’s super fast and works well with Netflix US and Skype calls,” says Rachit Malhotra, an Indian YouTuber who recently moved to Dubai Marina.
Lifestyle fit: Ideal for content creators, techies, and heavy internet users.
3. Surfshark: Budget-Friendly and Surprisingly Resilient
Why it works: Despite being affordable, Surfshark offers a NoBorders mode and camouflage feature that masks VPN traffic.
Who’s using it: Students, new expats, and travelers on a budget.
What they say:
“I couldn’t afford premium VPNs when I first arrived in Dubai for studies. Surfshark saved me. It just works,” says Amira Elhady, a 23-year-old Egyptian student at University of Dubai.
Lifestyle fit: Great for students, interns, and those just starting out in the city.
4. Proton VPN: Security First, But Still Slips Through the Cracks
Why it works: With Secure Core architecture and strong encryption, Proton VPN is one of the few that occasionally gets past detection in Dubai.
Who’s using it: Activists, journalists, and users focused more on privacy than streaming.
What they say:
“I rely on Proton for privacy. It’s not always the fastest in Dubai, but it’s secure,” shares Helena DeVries, a Dutch journalist covering Middle East culture.
Lifestyle fit: Best for those who value anonymity over speed.
5. Astrill VPN: Expensive, But Built for the UAE
Why it works: Astrill is designed for use in countries with strong censorship. It uses Smart Mode and StealthVPN protocols tailored for UAE conditions.
Who’s using it: Long-term residents, professionals, and expats who’ve tried everything else.
What they say:
“It’s expensive, yes. But if you’re serious about internet freedom in Dubai, Astrill is worth it,” says Greg Thompson, a British IT consultant living in Business Bay.
Lifestyle fit: Professionals who need reliable access no matter the cost.
A Peek into the Lives of Dubai’s VPN Warriors
Behind every VPN user is a story — often one of adjustment, hustle, and silent rebellion.
Take Noura Al Maktoum, a young Emirati graphic designer. She uses VPNs not to break laws, but to learn from global design communities, access creative tools, and stay inspired.
“Dubai is amazing, but sometimes I feel cut off from the world’s creative scene. VPNs give me back that access — it’s how I grow as an artist.”
Or Rahul and Sneha, a couple from India raising two kids in Dubai. Their VPN isn’t just for entertainment — it’s for staying connected to family in India through WhatsApp video calls, which are otherwise blocked.
“It’s the small things. Seeing your mom smile when your kid says ‘dadi’ for the first time — no filter should block that.”
Staying Safe: What You Need to Know
Using VPNs in Dubai is a gray area. It’s not illegal to use a VPN, but it is illegal to use it to access banned content or services that go against UAE’s laws. That means using it to stream international shows or make VoIP calls is technically tolerated, but using it for any illegal activity is not.
Tips for safe VPN use in the UAE:
- Choose a VPN with obfuscation or stealth features
- Avoid free VPNs — they’re often blocked or unsafe
- Stick to known, trusted brands
- Never use VPNs for illegal content or activities
Final Thoughts: VPNs as a Lifeline, Not a Luxury
In a world where digital freedom can feel limited, VPNs have become much more than just a tech tool. In Dubai, they are part of the lifestyle — a quiet companion to millions navigating work, love, learning, and connection.
They reflect the human desire to stay informed, stay connected, and stay free — even when the rules make it hard.
As we move deeper into 2025, the VPNs that still work in Dubai aren’t just surviving. They’re evolving, protecting, and empowering lives behind the scenes.
And that’s something worth talking about.
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram
