best vpn oman

Omani authorities in the past have blocked VoIP services like Skype and WhatsApp calls, plus apps like Tinder and adult websites. Blogs and news articles are sometimes censored as well. This can make things difficult if you are visiting Oman — unless you use a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Using a VPN keeps you safe, secure, and hidden on the internet. The advanced software guards your actual location by encrypting all the traffic to and from your device and routing it through an intermediary server. Connecting to a VPN in another country allows you to unblock online content and services from back home that are normally censored in Oman.

In this article, we’ll list the best VPNs for Oman and explain how to use them. We’ll go into detail on each provider below, but if you’re short on time, here’s a quick summary.

Best VPNs for Oman:

  1. NordVPN Our #1 choice for Oman. Incredible speeds, strong privacy and security features, and great at unblocking. Backed by excellent customer support. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
    TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly.
  2. Surfshark Solid budget VPN choice for Oman. This service provides excellent speeds and allows you to secure every device you own. Also boasts advanced security features and a no-logs policy.
  3. IPVanish Fast speeds and good privacy features. Popular with gamers and torrenters. Allows unlimited simultaneous connections.
  4. ExpressVPN Large network of servers in 105 countries that are tuned for consistency. Unblocks restricted content with ease.
  5. PureVPN: Fast enough for uninterrupted streaming in Oman. Servers in 65+ countries and apps for most devices.
  6. ProtonVPN: Robust 256-bit encryption makes this a perfect choice for online security in Oman. Strong speeds for torrenting, too.
  7. Hotspot Shield Strong security features and high-speed connections. Unblocks plenty of geo-restricted services in Oman abroad.
  8. Private Internet Access: Servers in 91+ countries, including several in the Middle East. Good, unthrottled speeds. Secure unlimited devices at once. No-logs policy included.

Get NordVPN - the #1 VPN
Warning

Many VPNs claim to protect your privacy and offer a fast, reliable connection but most (especially free VPNs) limit your connection speed or leak information.

We regularly test the top 70 VPNs for security and speed and this list only includes VPNs which are fast, reliable and are highly rated for privacy and security. Plus we only recommend VPNs which offer a full-money back guarantee allowing you to try them risk free.

Our recommended VPNs compared

We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Oman.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNPureVPNProton VPNHotspot ShieldPrivate Internet Access
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comIPVanish.comExpressVPN.comPureVPN.comProtonVPN.comHotspotshield.comPrivateInternetAccess.com
Ranking for Oman12345678
Streaming servicesNetflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
Hulu
YouTube TV
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
Hulu
YouTube TV
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
Hulu
YouTube TV
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
Hulu
YouTube TV
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
Hulu
YouTube TV
Netflix
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer
Hulu
YouTube TV
Netflix
BBC iPlayer
Netflix
Amazon Prime
Avg Speed (Mbps)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps
Devices SupportedWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, RoutersWindows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Chrome, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux
Total number of servers7,4103,2002,400Undisclosed6,000+11,7751.8001,000+
Popular Sites Unblocked95%88%85%86%80%87%85%70%
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Criteria for the best Oman VPNs

Our list of the best VPNs for Oman is based on our tests in the following areas:

  • Speed: The best VPNs provide speeds fast enough for all of your favorite online activities. The worst struggle to support normal browsing. To find the quickest available providers, we carried out multiple speed tests while connected to their US servers.
  • Network features: We checked that VPN providers worked in Oman, and that their obfuscation was, more generally, up to the task of evading global network blocks. We then checked whether they had far-reaching, and well-stocked, server networks.
  • Security and privacy: There is little to no internet freedom for citizens in Oman. If you don’t want your ISP (and the Omani government) snooping on you, you need a VPN that provides robust protection. We found the providers that offered this by testing them against 16 different security and privacy metrics.
  • Streaming: Most VPNs are terrible at streaming, and have little chance of working with big-name streaming platforms. With this in mind, we tested their relative streaming abilities, as well as evaluating them against several streaming-related criteria.
  • Ease of use: If you haven’t used VPN software before, you’ll be glad to know that we specifically tested providers’ relative user-friendliness. We tried to cover every aspect of their services by using 10 different criteria.

We cover our VPN testing methodology in greater detail later in this article. For now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the list.

The Best VPNs for Oman

Here’s our list of the best VPNs for Oman:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Mar 2025

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 9.6 / 10
Ease of use: 9.6 / 10
Network features: 9.7 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.5 / 10
Streaming: 9.2 / 10
US speed: 10.0 / 10

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is our first choice for an Oman VPN. It operates more than 7,400 servers across an impressive 117+ countries, including several locations in the Middle East.

NordVPN server locations.
NordVPN has servers in the UAE, Bahrain and Kuwait.

To find out whether its speeds were fast enough for uninterrupted streaming, we connected to the provider’s US servers and carried out several speed tests.

NordVPN was extremely fast, with an average download speed of 203.13 Mbps, more than 74 Mbps faster than the combined average speed of the other tested providers.

The provider employs a zero-logs policy. This means it has no information about user sessions, traffic, or timestamps. NordVPN is also incorporated in Panama, which is out of the reach of any data retention laws, so the policy is unlikely to change.

It’s one of the few VPN providers that has servers for specific requirements, such as obfuscation, double VPN, Tor over VPN, or dedicated IP, so it’s great for those with additional security and privacy concerns.

NordVPN's specialty servers.
NordVPN’s obfuscated servers enable connections in restrictive countries such as the UAE and China.

NordVPN is excellent at streaming and supports most online streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. NordVPN also allows torrenting.

The company encrypts internet traffic using the 256-bit AES protocol and 2,048-bit SSL keys. DNS leak protection is enabled. The specifications are considered to be within the top-tier VPN standards.

Apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android are available.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You need obfuscated servers specifically designed to work in restrictive countries like Oman
  • You want the fastest speeds in Oman
  • You require specialty servers for additional security
  • You need servers in neighboring Middle Eastern countries (UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait)
  • You want a VPN based outside data retention jurisdictions (Panama)

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need a VPN with servers physically located in Oman

BEST VPN FOR OMAN:NordVPN is our #1 choice. It boasts stellar speeds and is well-suited for Oman users that value their privacy and security. It can access Netflix and most popular streaming sites along with most communications apps like Skype. Includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Here’s our review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 9.4 / 10
Ease of use: 8.9 / 10
Network features: 9.4 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.5 / 10
Streaming: 9.2 / 10
US speed: 9.8 / 10

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark is a low-cost VPN with servers in 100 countries, including Oman’s neighbor, the UAE. There’s no connection limit, so you can connect all of your devices at once.

Speeds were excellent when tested. The provider averaged 200.08 Mbps overall, which is fast enough for anything you might need a VPN for — including multiple streams of 4K content.

This service has a very impressive security offering. It uses IPv6 and DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and 256-bit AES encryption to keep your activities safe from prying eyes. Further, Surfshark doesn’t log any personally identifiable information.

Surfshark's kill switch.
Surfshark’s kill switch prevents you from unwittingly exposing your real IP address if the VPN connection drops out.

One of the things that set Surfshark apart from its rivals is the NoBorders mode. This can be toggled on with a single click and, once activated, will scramble your traffic, allowing you to get around particularly stringent internet blocking. This feature even works in China, so you should be able to access just about anything while traveling in Oman.

Surfshark's NoBorders mode.
Surfshark’s NoBorders mode is simple to use.

Surfshark provides Android, macOS, Windows, iOS, and Linux apps. Manual installation is required for network routers.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want to connect all your devices simultaneously
  • You need the NoBorders mode specifically designed to bypass internet restrictions
  • You’re looking for the most affordable option
  • You need both IPv6 and DNS leak protection

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need a VPN with specialty servers for specific use cases

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark has no connection limit, meaning you never have to browse unprotected in Oman. With high speeds, plenty of privacy options, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s well worth your consideration.

Read our full review of Surfshark here.

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3. IPVanish

IPVanish

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8.5 / 10
Ease of use: 9.4 / 10
Network features: 6.5 / 10
Security & privacy: 8.9 / 10
Streaming: 8.8 / 10
US speed: 8.8 / 10

Website:  www.IPVanish.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

IPVanish is another top performer because it delivers fast speeds coupled with robust encryption. It’s also great for streaming, another reason to opt for the service.

Streaming Disney Plus.
Streaming Disney Plus using IPVanish.

The company is registered in the US and has a stated (and independently audited) policy of not storing user data. This means all web activity, including session history, choice of servers, and bandwidth utilized, is hidden and even inaccessible to system administrators.

We used the company’s US servers for our speed tests. IPVanish performed consistently well throughout the process, with an average download speed of 185.56 Mbps.

This was more than 54 Mbps faster than the combined average speed of the other providers, so it’s a great overall result.

Encryption standards leave nothing to worry about. IPVanish deploys 256-bit encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default, SHA512 authentication, and a DHE-RSA 2,048 key exchange with perfect forward secrecy. The latter feature means in the unlikely scenario that hackers gain access to your account, all your past sessions will remain encrypted and secure. It’s simply not possible to uncover the traffic to provide an overview of what you’ve been doing online.

IPVanish includes an internet kill switch, which adds an additional layer of security. This feature means traffic will be halted temporarily if the VPN connection drops. It also has over 2,400 servers spread across 100+ countries, including a large variety in Asia, Europe, and North America.

IPVanish servers.
A map of available servers is available on the app’s dashboard.

There are apps for both iOS and Android, as well as desktop support for Windows and macOS.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You need strong performance for streaming in Oman
  • You’re looking for perfect forward secrecy for maximum security
  • You want a well-organized interface that’s easy to navigate
  • You need unlimited simultaneous connections for all your devices

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You prefer to pay with cryptocurrency for extra anonymity

VERY RELIABLE:IPVanish allows unlimited devices. Offers strong privacy and security with a huge number of IPs and servers, plus additional protection against DNS leaks. Handles Skype well. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our review of IPVanish.

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4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8.3 / 10
Ease of use: 9.3 / 10
Network features: 9.3 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.2 / 10
Streaming: 9.2 / 10
US speed: 4.6 / 10

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN has an easy-to-use interface and is fast and reliable. The server network comprises over 3,000 spread across 105+ countries.

This service works with Netflix without breaking a sweat and is similarly compatible with both Hulu and BBC iPlayer. It also supports torrenting.

Streaming Netflix.
Streaming Netflix using ExpressVPN.

To find out whether the provider was suitable for high definition streaming, we tested its speeds while connected to its US servers.

While not as fast as some providers in this list, ExpressVPN still achieved a very respectable 122.32 Mbps on average. This is more than fast enough for tasks like 4K streaming or gaming.  

Privacy and anonymity are important factors when choosing a VPN in Oman. ExpressVPN has your back due to its policy of not storing any identifying data. The only data retained analyzes the dates (not times) users connect to the service, the servers they prefer, and the total bandwidth utilized. Your individual IP address won’t be stored.

It’s possible to register for the service via a burner email account and pay with Bitcoin if you want to reduce the risk of privacy invasion to a bare minimum.

As mentioned earlier, ExpressVPN’s encryption protocols are tough. It uses 256-bit AES-CBC with the utilization of both HMAC authentication and perfect forward secrecy. An internet kill switch temporarily halts all web traffic if the connection drops unexpectedly, keeping your connection secure.

ExpressVPN's kill switch.
ExpressVPN refers to its kill switch as a “Network Lock”.

There are apps for Android and iOS as well as desktop support for Windows and macOS.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You need a large server network spanning 105+ countries
  • You prefer a provider with anonymous payment options (Bitcoin)
  • You need reliable access to Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer from Oman
  • You want a Network Lock (kill switch) that’s reliable in unstable connections

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need clearly labeled streaming servers to find what works quickly
  • You’re on a budget

BROWSE FREELY:ExpressVPN works reliably in Oman. It works with Netflix and all major streaming sites, along with communications apps, including Skype. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our review of ExpressVPN.

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5. PureVPN

PureVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 8 / 10
Ease of use: 9.1 / 10
Network features: 9.3 / 10
Security & privacy: 8.7 / 10
Streaming: 7.3 / 10
US speed: 5.6 / 10

Website:  www.PureVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS

PureVPN is a strong recommendation for readers in Oman seeking a reliable yet affordable VPN solution. With a large network spanning over 65 countries, it’s perfect for bypassing VoIP blocks and accessing blocked websites in Oman. Unlike the providers listed above, PureVPN actually has servers in Oman. This means you can get an Omani IP address to access services within the country.

PureVPN dashboard.
Using PureVPN’s server in Oman.

PureVPN enables seamless access to international streaming services like Netflix US from Oman. It even provides a list of servers that it recommends for particular streaming platforms.

PureVPN's streaming servers.
PureVPN’s streaming servers make accessing new content much easier.

The integration of the WireGuard protocol further enhances its capabilities. In our tests, the provider averaged 137.08 Mbps.

This makes it ideal for HD streaming, gaming, torrenting, and secure video calling.

PureVPN’s robust AES encryption, coupled with a strict no-logging policy, kill switch, DNS leak prevention, and obfuscation features, ensures internet usage in Oman remains private and secure, safeguarding users from tracking by employers, schools, ISPs, or the Omani government.

While interactions with live chat support may be slow, PureVPN’s affordable subscription costs make it an unbeatable option for those on a tight budget in Oman. Plus, you can test it out risk-free with its 31-day money-back guarantee.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You need actual servers located in Oman to get an Omani IP address
  • You need a flexible 31-day money-back guarantee
  • You want apps for all major platforms
  • You’re looking for WireGuard protocol support

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You require port forwarding without extra costs
  • You need fast customer support

CHEAP VPN FOR OMAN:PureVPN is a cheap and fast VPN, perfect for gaining privacy in Oman. It has servers in 65+ countries that work to watch Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, disney+, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and many other popular services.

Find out more in our PureVPN review.

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6. ProtonVPN

Proton VPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 7.7 / 10
Ease of use: 8.8 / 10
Network features: 7.3 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.3 / 10
Streaming: 6.7 / 10
US speed: 6.2 / 10

Website:  www.ProtonVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ProtonVPN is an excellent choice if you’re in Oman and looking for a reliable VPN to ensure your online privacy and security. It has servers in an impressive 117 countries — including Oman.

ProtonVPN servers.
ProtonVPN has more than 11,700 servers in its network overall.

The provider has a fully audited no-logs policy and intuitive apps with AES encryption, obfuscation, multi-hop connections, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. This makes it one of the most advanced and reliable VPN options for Omanis seeking internet freedom without worrying about government surveillance.

ProtonVPN is capable of accessing numerous streaming services like Netflix US and BBC iPlayer. It’s a reliable choice for Omanis interested in streaming foreign content.

Streaming Hulu.
Streaming Hulu using ProtonVPN.

But what about its speeds? We tested the provider while connected to its US servers to find out.

The good news is that ProtonVPN was very fast. Its average download speed of 146.90 Mbps makes it suitable for streaming, gaming or torrenting. 

ProtonVPN’s support for split tunneling and port forwarding is perfect for those interested in torrenting. As for pricing, while longer plans may be more expensive, the 1-month plan offers great value, making it suitable for Omanis traveling for work or on vacation. Additionally, live chat support is available 24/7, and with a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try the VPN risk-free.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want a VPN with servers in 117 countries including Oman
  • You want advanced features like multi-hop connections
  • You need good port forwarding and split tunneling support for torrenting

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need the absolute fastest speeds
  • You want a VPN that works reliably in restrictive countries

FULLY FEATURED:ProtonVPN has apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux that come packed with advanced features. It is a highly trusted VPN that has completed a full third-party audit. Servers are available in over 85+ countries.

Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.

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7. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Hotspotshield.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

Editor's Note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Point Wild, Comparitech's parent company.

Hotspot Shield has a network of more than 1,800 servers in 80+ countries. Its home-grown connection protocol, Hydra, is great at obfuscating traffic in restrictive countries.

Hotspot Shield's protocol options.
The Hydra protocol enables connections in extremely restrictive countries like China.

Additionally, it works with stubborn streaming services like Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video from abroad.

Streaming BBC iPlayer.
Streaming BBC iPlayer using Hotspot Shield.

Speed-wise, Hotspot Shield isn’t as fast as the rest of the providers in this list. In our tests, it averaged 55.10 Mbps.

While this might seem slow, it’s really not compared to the wider VPN market — it’s just that the providers we’ve selected are generally extremely fast.

This service comes with a wide range of security features built-in. There’s 256-bit encryption, to begin with, as well as automatic wi-fi protection, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Users can also allow specific websites to bypass the VPN (for instance, if you’d like to use local streaming services without compromising your own privacy). Hotspot Shield deletes all personally identifiable data when your session ends, making you effectively untraceable. If you run into any problems, you can reach customer support 24/7 via live chat.

Hotspot Shield apps are available for Android, Windows, macOS, and iOS.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want the proprietary Hydra protocol for bypassing Oman’s restrictions
  • You want the longest money-back guarantee period
  • You need automatic WiFi protection while using public networks

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You want the fastest speeds
  • You’re concerned about past privacy issues

FAST AND USER-FRIENDLY:Hotspot Shield isn’t just security-conscious and extremely fast; it’s also simple enough for complete novices to use. As if that wasn’t enough, it comes with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

Here’s our full review of Hotspot Shield.

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8. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

VPN Ratings:

Overall score: 6.8 / 10
Ease of use: 9.6 / 10
Network features: 5.6 / 10
Security & privacy: 9.3 / 10
Streaming: 8.6 / 10
US speed: 1.0 / 10

Website:  www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Private Internet Access can help you bypass restrictions in Oman and abroad, whether they’re due to copyright or censorship. That’s because it has obfuscation and an expansive server network covering more than 91 countries.

Apps are very easy to use, even by those new to VPN software. If you do have experience, however, there are plenty of advanced settings to play with in the expanded view.

PIA dashboard.
PIA’s expanded view contains a wealth of connection information.

In our speed tests, PIA averaged 55.15 Mbps. While this is still fast enough for streaming in 4K, it’s far slower than most of the other providers in this list.

If you need/ want faster speeds, PIA is one of the few providers that allows you to reduce the level of encryption being used on your traffic — from 256-bit to 128-bit. This requires less computational work and thus makes the connection faster. This VPN also stands out for its unlimited connection allowance.

Oman is a country in which citizens have restricted freedom, so it’s important that PIA doesn’t keep any logs such as your IP address or timestamps. All of your internet traffic is routed through a 256-bit AES encrypted tunnel, while there’s also leak protection and a kill switch to keep you safe online.

IP leak test.
PIA didn’t leak our UK IP address while connected to a server in the UAE.

Private Internet Access provides apps for the following: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. You can also find browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. PIA can work with compatible routers but requires manual configuration.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want servers in 91+ countries including several in the Middle East
  • You want task-specific servers for different activities in Oman
  • You need unlimited device connections

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You want a VPN that works reliably in restrictive countries
  • You want server locations physically in Oman

SERVERS IN 91+ COUNTRIES:Private Internet Access offers unlimited bandwidth and easy-to-use apps. Secure unlimited devices simultaneously. All connections are 256-bit AES encrypted. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Private Internet Access review.

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Finding the best VPNs for Oman: Our methodology

Finding a VPN that works in Oman is particularly challenging. That’s because many VPNs are blocked in the country. As such, this was an obvious starting point for us. We then went on to test each provider in several other important areas:

Speed

If you’re planning on using your VPN for more than just basic browsing, you’ll need a VPN that’s capable of decent speeds. To find which providers were fastest, we carried out three speed tests for each of them: one in the morning, one at noon, and one in the afternoon. We used US servers as this is a popular choice for those trying to access streaming content.

Speeds were measured using the desktop version of the Ookla speed-testing app. We rate-limited our base connection speed to 250 Mbps in order to better simulate the average user’s experience (5G download speeds in Oman are 234.7Mbps on average).

Once we’d collected the results, we averaged them for each provider and then converted them to a score out of 10.

NordVPN scored highest overall, though Surfshark was a very close second. Both providers are solid options if you need an extremely quick connection (and have a fast base speed to start with).

Network features

With many VPNs failing to work in Oman, we had to look for those that are still able to bypass government censorship. The VPNs that have the most success are those that have powerful obfuscation that disguises VPN traffic as regular web traffic. We also scored providers on the extent of their server networks. More servers means less congestion, while more locations means a greater choice of country-specific IP addresses.

The scores obtained were averaged and converted to an overall score out of 10 for comparison.

NordVPN scored the highest again, primarily due to its ever-expanding server network. Surfshark and ExpressVPN came second, with a score of 9.4. All three VPNs have particularly effective obfuscation.

Security and privacy

Regardless of location, internet users are at risk, with cybercriminals an increasing threat. A VPN helps in this respect in that it encrypts your internet traffic, ensuring it cannot be compromised. However, we ask for more than just encryption. You can see the metrics we used for evaluation below.

FeatureNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNPureVPNProton VPNHotspot ShieldPIA
Activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logsNo activity logs
IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logsNo IP logs
EncryptionAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higherAES-128 or higher
AuthenticationSHA-384SHA-512SHA-256SHA-512SHA-256SHA-512SHA-512SHA-256
Keys4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit4096-bit2048-bit2048-bit4096-bit
Perfect Forward SecrecyYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
DNS leak protectionYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
IPv6 leak protectionYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Private DNSYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Torrenting allowedYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Kill switchAll platformsMobile app-levelAll platformsMobile app-levelSome platformsAll platformsSome platformsAll platforms
HQ outside 9 eyesYesNoYesYesYesYesNoNo
ObfuscationStealthStealthStealthAutomaticAutomaticStealthStealthStealth
Supported protocolsOwn protocolSecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlyOwn protocolSecure protocols onlySecure protocols onlyOwn protocolSecure protocols only
Anonymous payment optionsMultipleMultipleNoneMultipleOneOneNoneMultiple
Additional security featuresYesYesNoNoNoYesNoYes

Each metric was scored, and then the scores combined to give an overall score out of 10. This makes it simple to create a visualization suitable for quick comparison.

NordVPN and Surfshark were the highest scorers, each gaining 9.5 out of 10. If you have even the slightest concern about your online security and privacy, one of these two providers should be your first port of call when choosing a VPN.

Ease of use

It’s understandable that you want a VPN that just works. After all, it may be your first time using such a service. To find the most user-friendly overall service, we evaluated each VPN against the criteria in the table below.

FeatureNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNPureVPNProton VPNHotspot ShieldPIA
Apps for all major platformsYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Novice-friendly designYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Ease of signup (reviewer to score)5 (easy)45 (easy)5 (easy)3445 (easy)
Router supportStandardStandardStandardAppAppStandardStandardStandard
Unblocking consistencyGreatGreatGreatGenerally worksGreatGreatGreatGreat
Task specific serversYesNoNoNoYesYesNoYes
Network60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries60+ countries
Ease of cancellationVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easyVery easy
InterfaceWell-organisedA little clutteredWell-organisedWell-organisedA little clutteredTakes some getting used toWell-organisedWell-organised
Feature parityMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsAll features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versionsMost features available on all versions

Each of the criteria was scored, and then these scores were combined to generate an overall score out of 10.

NordVPN and PIA each scored an impressive 9.6 out of 10. Both providers have well-designed apps that are easy to navigate intuitively. They also make it easy to sign-up and cancel subscriptions. IPvanish is a good alternative if neither of these appeal.

Streaming

Not all VPNs have the strong unblocking ability needed to access the likes of BBC iPlayer and Skype, for example. We tested providers’ ability to access a range of streaming services whilst also evaluating them against the metrics shown in the table below.

FeatureNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNPureVPNProton VPNHotspot ShieldPIA
Number of locations in relevant country5+ locations5+ locations5+ locations5+ locations5+ locations5+ locations5+ locations5+ locations
Regional speed test results300-500 Mbps500+ Mbps300-500 Mbps300-500 Mbps100-299 Mbps100-299 Mbps100-299 Mbps<100 Mbps
Includes ad-blocker?YesYesYesYesNoYesNoYes
Works in high-censorship countriesYesYesYesYesYesNoYesYes
Offers a smart DNS serviceYesYesNoYesNoNoNoYes
Streaming device apps2+ apps2+ apps2+ apps2+ apps2+ apps1 app1 app1 app
Can Unblock Tier 1 StreamingReliablyReliablyReliablyReliablyUnreliablyUnreliablyUnreliablyReliably
Can Unblock Tier 2 StreamingYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Can Unblock Tier 3 StreamingYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes

We assigned a score to each of these metrics and summed them to give us an overall score out of 10. This makes it easier to directly compare providers.

NordVPN, Surfshark and ExressVPN all scored equally highly (9.20) for streaming. This is because they can unblock all of the most popular platforms while also providing services like smart DNS for devices that don’t support VPN software natively.

What about a free VPN?

Our readers may have considered using a free VPN. They’re tempting, especially as they usually don’t ask for credit card information. Some might adopt a freemium model and ask you to submit such data if you prefer to upgrade to an enhanced package.

But this means you’ll probably be receiving a fraction of the same experience that paid services offer. Forget about enjoying the same speeds, encryption standards, or access to 24/7 customer service.

Free VPNs aren’t just going to hand this valuable service over without expecting anything in return. They’re trying to make money, too; after all, there’s the small matter of paying for staff salaries, server maintenance, and other overheads.

In recent history, free VPNs have overstepped boundaries by stealing user data, selling it to 3rd-party advertisers, and bombarding users with invasive advertisements. There’s also the threat of a malware infection.

For these reasons, we recommend avoiding free VPNs and paying for a quality service instead. If you’re unsure about paying for a VPN, check out our list of the best VPNs with a free trial. It’ll help you test out the service for a few days and analyze whether the software works for you or not.

How to use a VPN in Oman

If you’re traveling in Oman and want to access your usual home services and websites, you’ll need to use a VPN. Setting up a VPN couldn’t be simpler, just follow the steps below.

Here’s how to unblock websites using a VPN in Oman:

  1. Pick one of the VPNs from the list above. We recommend NordVPN.
  2. Select a plan, enter your payment details, and download the relevant apps.
  3. Open the VPN app, login, and select a server, preferably outside your country of residence. For example, for American Netflix, you would choose a US server.
  4. Once the connection is established, open the websites you want to access and use them like you normally would.
  5. Still can’t unblock websites from Oman? Clear your browser’s cache and cookies before trying again.

WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?

NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for Oman with no restrictions for a month—great if you just need a VPN for a short time, for example, while on vacation.

There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

VPNs for Oman: FAQ

Are VPNs legal in Oman?

Technically, VPNs are legal in Oman, but they exist in a kind of grey area. This is because the law says that you need explicit permission from the government to access any encrypted part of the internet. Can you see the problem with this? Everything uses encryption these days, from messaging apps to online banking to payment platforms. As such, the aforementioned law is widely ignored but could still hypothetically be used to charge you with a crime.

Is Telegram banned in Oman?

The Telecommunications Regulation Authority (TRA) in Oman blocks all VoIP services, including Skype, WhatsApp, and Telegram. The accepted reason for this ban is that it helps drive revenue toward local telecom companies. Although Oman temporarily unblocked popular messaging apps in 2020 to allow people to communicate more freely during the COVID-19 pandemic, these restrictions have since been reinstated. However, it’s a simple matter to bypass Oman’s Telegram ban using a VPN.

How do I blog anonymously in Oman?

Sadly Oman’s declining state of individual freedoms has extended to journalists, bloggers, and regular citizens. Local law enforcement doesn’t tolerate any criticism of the ruling family or outspoken views on public life in the Sultanate. Any supposed deviations from the Islamic way of life are also looked down upon. If you’re a blogger, we recommend you use a VPN at all times.

Read more in our article: How to blog anonymously, a guide for activists, whistleblowers, and journalists.

Please note that you should research the possible ramifications of your behavior before deciding to continue on this path. If necessary, consult a lawyer who might be able to provide in-depth advice.

Do I need a VPN to use social media in Oman?

You can use social media in Oman. The likes of Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are all available in the country. However, there is history for websites and services being censored. For example, Skype was blocked in Oman for several years. As such, a VPN is a way in which you can bypass content restrictions should they arise.

Will these VPNs give me an IP address in Oman?

VPNs with servers in Oman are far and few between. In fact, we have yet to locate any reliable VPNs that have servers there. As a result, it is extremely hard to get an IP address in Oman using a VPN. 

Instead, we have recommended VPNs that have at least some presence in the Middle East. This includes servers in the UAE, for example. Our recommendations provide these server locations and high levels of privacy, which is why we have recommended them (they are trustworthy, secure, and reliable).

If you require specific server locations, we recommend that you double-check with the VPN provider before you subscribe. This will allow you to be sure about where else in the Middle East and North Africa servers are available. 

*Disclaimer: While we have researched this topic thoroughly, nothing in our article should be taken as legal advice. We do not advise breaking the law of your local country. Our goal is to provide you with the best information and solutions, but we are not legal experts on the nuances of Oman’s laws. If you’re unclear about the legal ramifications, then it’s best to do further research or seek legal advice.