Best VPNs to unblock WhatsApp calling in the UAE and Dubai

Have you ever struggled with connecting to WhatsApp in Dubai or the UAE? Despite being a lifeline for many to stay in touch with loved ones, Dubai and the UAE have restricted free VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) services like WhatsApp calling, video calls, and messaging services. Although there are government-sanctioned alternatives like C’Me or BOTIM, they don’t promise the privacy you’d expect, especially in a region cautious about encryption.

The good news is that by connecting to a VPN server outside the UAE, you can gain access to WhatsApp and a myriad of other platforms often restricted in the region. VPNs not only unlock access to apps like WhatsApp but also ensure encrypted browsing, shielding your online activities from prying eyes.

After extensive research and comprehensive testing, we’ve found the top-performing VPNs for seamless WhatsApp calling in the UAE. We’ll start with a summary of our findings, followed by an-in depth examination of each VPN service.

Best VPNs for WhatsApp in Dubai and the UAE:

1. NordVPN: Our top choice for unblocking WhatsApp in Dubai and the UAE. A speedy, privacy-conscious VPN that boasts a huge server network, a no-logs policy, and a wide range of advanced security features. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for UAE.
2. Surfshark: The best budget VPN for WhatsApp calling in the UAE. With no connection limit, decent speeds, and a major focus on security, Surfshark makes it easy to use WhatsApp safely in the UAE.
3. ExpressVPN: Fast and reliable, with top-notch security and privacy protections.
4. PureVPN: Quick, easy-to-use, and highly secure. Works flawlessly in the UAE and other countries with strict digital censorship.
5. ProtonVPN: A no-logs provider boasting plenty of advanced security tools. Delivers impressive performance and offers reliable Emirati servers.
6. Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield is very fast, with powerful security features and excellent unblocking ability.
7. PrivateVPN: This small but speedy VPN comes with several advanced security features. It keeps no logs whatsoever and easily unblocks WhatsApp abroad.

New to VPNs and not quite sure how to get started? Don’t panic: it’s actually quite easy to bypass online censorship. Just follow the steps below to unblock WhatsApp in Dubai and the UAE. Note that not all VPNs work in the UAE so stick to recommendations from this list.

How to unblock WhatsApp calling in Dubai and the UAE

From our real-world experience, here’s how to unblock WhatsApp calling in Dubai and the UAE:

1. First, sign up for one of the VPNs below, if you haven’t already (we particularly recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the appropriate version of the app for your device. The VPN providers in this guide have apps for most operating systems and mobile devices.
3. Log in and connect to a VPN server. Generally, US servers are a strong choice, although you may find that using servers in nearby countries gets you a lower-latency connection.
4. Open WhatsApp and try making a call. You should now be able to chat as normal. If you’re still having issues, try clearing the app’s data or using a different server. It may also be a good idea to contact your VPN’s support team for further assistance.

Our criteria for the best WhatsApp calling VPNs

There are dozens of VPNs on the market, but not all of them are able to unblock WhatsApp in the UAE, and some don’t offer the speeds required for uninterrupted calling. Of course, you’ll likely want to do more than just use your VPN for WhatsApp calls. To make sure you get a well-rounded service, we tested providers in the following areas:

• Speed: The UAE has fast connection speeds, which you won’t want to bog down by using a slow VPN. To find which providers were quickest, we carried out multiple speed tests while connected to each VPN’s US servers.
• Network and functionality: To ensure your internet traffic can bypass any network blocks, we checked whether providers were able to effectively obfuscate it. We also measured the number of servers in their networks, as well as their reach. Finally, we made sure that each VPN service was easily contactable in the event of any issues.
• Value for money: Some VPNs unashamedly overcharge for their services. To find which offer a good deal to consumers, we measured them against eight value-for-money criteria.
• Security and privacy: If you’re trying to place WhatsApp calls in the UAE, the last thing you want is for third-parties to find out about it. With this in mind, we only recommended providers that scored highly across 16 different security and privacy criteria.
• Ease of use: To get you access to WhatsApp calling as fast as possible, we looked for providers that offered hassle-free services. In all, we used 10 individual metrics for evaluating how easy each VPN service was to use.

The above is just an outline — for an in-depth look at our tests — and the results — go to the methodology section later in the article.

Our VPN recommendations compared

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

Best VPNs for WhatsApp calling inf Dubai and the UAE

Below, we’ll take a closer look at the best VPNs for WhatsApp calls in the UAE:

1. NordVPN

Mar 2025

NordVPN is our first choice for WhatsApp in Dubai. It boasts one of the largest networks around, with over 7,000 servers in 117+ countries.

It’s also known for its exceptional unblocking ability, allowing users in the UAE to access popular streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix US, and, of course, WhatsApp.

Speeds are faster than those of any other VPN we’ve tested, so the data demands of WhatsApp calls will not cause a problem.

Overall, the provider’s average download speed was 208.64 Mbps, almost 80 Mbps faster than the combined average speed of the other providers.

This VPN helps keep you safe online by using 256-bit AES encryption, a customizable kill switch, and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. It also includes an ad blocker, a malware scanner, and servers specifically designed for use in countries where the internet is heavily censored.

NordVPN has a strict no-logging policy, so once connected, you’re effectively untraceable (although you can pay with Bitcoin for another layer of anonymity). Customer support is available 24/7 over live chat.

NordVPN has apps for Linux, Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It also works with select home routers via manual configuration.

BEST VPN FOR WHATSAPP IN UAE:NordVPN is our first pick. It boasts incredible speeds, packs several advanced security features, and easily unblocks WhatsApp from inside the UAE. Comes with a no-logs policy and access to over 6,200 high-speed servers. A 30-day money-back guarantee makes this a risk-free option.

Read our in-depth review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark currently operates around 3,200 servers in 100 countries. Its speeds are more than fast enough for video and other VoIP calls. In our tests, the provider achieved an average download speed of 190.71 Mbps.

This makes Surfshark suitable for using with international streaming services like Hulu and Sling TV without any noticeable lag or buffering. Thanks to the provider’s excellent unblocking ability, you can access all of the big-name streaming platforms when traveling internationally.

One of the great things about Surfshark is that it has no connection limit; one account allows you to secure every device you own.

This service’s security features include 256-bit AES encryption, protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks, and a kill switch, as well as a built-in ad-blocker and malware scanner.

Best of all, there’s a NoBorders feature designed to bypass governmental web filtering in countries like the UAE, where the internet is heavily restricted.

You can pay in one of three accepted cryptocurrencies if you like, but this is optional as Surfshark doesn’t log any personally identifiable data. Need help? Customer support is on hand 24/7 via live chat.

Surfshark offers Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android apps. It can be manually installed on supported wireless routers.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is ideal for unblocking WhatsApp abroad thanks to its high speeds, strong privacy protections, and advanced security features. What’s more, it has no connection limit and even comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Check out our comprehensive Surfshark review.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN has more than 3,000 servers in 105+ countries. Connections are quick to establish and rarely drop. Most importantly, they’re fast. In our tests, the provider averaged 115.81 Mbps.

This makes ExpressVPN suitable for WhatsApp calling and activities such as streaming. This service has excellent unblocking ability and works well with streaming platforms like Netflix US, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.

This VPN comes with several powerful security and privacy features that are perfect for accessing WhatsApp and a variety of VoIP services in the UAE. These include 256-bit AES encryption, protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks, and a kill switch (which it calls a network lock) that stops all data transfer whenever you lose your connection unexpectedly.

ExpressVPN doesn’t log any data that could identify you, but if you’re worried about privacy, you can always pay in Bitcoin. If you have any problems, you can reach customer support over live chat 24/7.

ExpressVPN provides apps for iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and Linux devices. It also has custom router firmware, making it easy to protect all of your devices at once.

STRONG SECURITY:ExpressVPN is another good choice for making WhatsApp calls in the UAE. It’s fast, boasts top-notch privacy protection, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For more information, check out the full ExpressVPN review.

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4. PureVPN

PureVPN has more than 6,000 servers spread across 65 countries (including the UAE). It’s able to access all manner of region-locked services and bypass the world’s strictest online restrictions, so using WhatsApp while traveling won’t be an issue.

Better still, it’s fast. In our tests, its top speed was 168.19 Mbps. Even if we include the slower results, its average is still a very quick 138.91 Mbps. 

This is more than fast enough for WhatsApp calling, streaming, gaming, or torrenting. 

PureVPN’s customer support staff is available 24 hours a day, but there is one caveat: PureVPN’s website may be blocked in certain countries, so you’ll want to install the app and note down the support email address before leaving home.

This provider supports OpenVPN and WireGuard connections, uses uncrackable encryption, and offers a kill switch so that you never accidentally browse unprotected. It also prevents IPv6 and DNS leaks, and can block trackers automatically.

PureVPN follows a true no-logs policy and has been audited four times for extra peace of mind. However, at the time of this writing, it doesn’t support anonymous payment options.

PureVPN has apps for Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and MacOS. If you need to secure more than 10 devices simultaneously, you can manually install this VPN on your router.

CHAT SAFELY ABROAD:PureVPN takes the stress out of using WhatsApp in the UAE. It’s fast, secure, and easily sidesteps country-wide censorship with no additional configuration needed.

Check out our full review of PureVPN.

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5. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN operates almost 11,000+ servers in an impressive 117 countries. Roughly sixteen of these are located in the UAE, though you’ll want to use servers outside of the country for WhatsApp calling.

While connected to its servers in the US, we measured speeds averaging 177.32 Mbps. 

This is extremely quick and means that you’ll be able to video call with friends from back home without any performance issues.

ProtonVPN works with a huge range of region-locked platforms including Netflix and BBC iPlayer, so there really aren’t many limits on what you can do.

Just be aware that ProtonVPN’s website may not be accessible in the UAE; that’s why you should install the service before arriving.

User traffic is secured using a blend of uncrackable encryption, leak protection, and a kill switch.

Further, ProtonVPN includes automatic ad and tracker-blocking on all plans, plus Secure Core servers that were specifically designed to remain free from governmental interference. This service has a strict no-logs policy and has been independently-audited to back up its privacy claims. Experienced users can even set up split tunneling or port forwarding to further customize their security setup.

ProtonVPN offers apps for Linux, Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS. It also provides manual setup instructions for anyone hoping to install this service on their router.

PERFECT FOR VOIP:ProtonVPN has the speed and security needed to use services like WhatsApp and Skype in the UAE. Not only that, but it works with a huge range of streaming platforms and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee on all paid plans.

Read our complete ProtonVPN review to learn more.

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6. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield has around 3,200 servers in 70+ countries. It reliably works with WhatsApp and several other popular streaming services in the UAE, including Netflix US and ITV Hub.

In our tests, the provider’s speeds were a little variable, with a difference of 54.02 Mbps between the fastest and slowest results.

Overall, however, the average speed of 83.66 Mbps was decent and suitable for making WhatsApp calls and video calls free from any interruptions.

Hotspot Shield permits up to 10 simultaneous connections, which means you can access whatever you want, whether you’re at home or on the go.

This service uses 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection to keep your activities private at all times.

Hotspot Shield doesn’t log any identifiable information beyond the duration of your session. 24/7 live chat is available should you need any help, although this VPN’s apps are fairly simple to use.

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

FAST AND RELIABLE:Hotspot Shield is an excellent, low-cost VPN capable of unblocking WhatsApp in the UAE. It boasts reliable high-speed connections, over 3,000 servers worldwide, and a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Interested? Take a look at our complete Hotspot Shield review.

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7. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN has fewer servers than some of the VPNs above, but it’s nevertheless great at unblocking streaming platforms, and evading VPN blocks more generally. In addition to working with WhatsApp, the provider is able to access a whole host of streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer.

Speed-wise, the provider was the slowest in this list when tested. Nevertheless, its average speed of 70.27 Mbps is still more than capable of maintaining WhatsApp calls without interruption.

If you need a speed boost, PrivateVPN is one of the few providers that allows you to drop the level of encryption for faster connections.

This VPN uses IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection, a kill switch, and 256-bit encryption to ensure you’re protected from snoopers 100 percent of the time. It also includes a traffic scrambling feature that hides the telltale signs of VPN traffic, allowing you to use services and networks that usually block VPN users outright. PrivateVPN does not keep any logs at all, so your privacy is in good hands. If you need help, you can reach customer support over live chat, 24 hours per day.

PrivateVPN provides apps for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows. Manual setup is required if you’d like to use it on your internet router or Linux system.

SECURITY-FIRST PROVIDER:PrivateVPN is a very fast provider that takes your security seriously. It keeps no logs, lets you make WhatsApp calls in the UAE, and includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

To find out more, read the full PrivateVPN review.

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Our Methodology: How we find VPNs for WhatsApp calling in Dubai and the UAE

Many VPNs cannot provide the features you need to make WhatsApp calls effectively and privately in the UAE. To find those up to the task, we carried out exhaustive tests in the following areas:

Speed

If you want friends and family to enjoy calling you, it’s vital that the VPN you choose is fast enough. Slow VPNs make WhatsApp calls awkward at best. To find the quickest providers, we carried out several speed tests over the course of a day.

We connected to each provider’s US servers and measured our resulting download speed using the desktop version of the Ookla speed-testing app. We rate-limited our base connection speed to 250 Mbps, which is a little less than the median fixed broadband speed in the UAE. This helps ensure the VPN speeds we report are representative for the average UAE-based user.

Once we’d recorded each provider’s download speeds, we averaged them and converted them to a score out of 10 for comparison.

As you can see from the above, NordVPN scored highest, with an impressive 10 out of 10. Surfshark wasn’t far behind. Hotspot Shield and PrivateVPN were the slowest, with speeds less than half that of NordVPN and Surfshark.

Network and functionality

We started by scoring provider on their networks: how many servers they had and how many countries they were in. Next, we scored them on whether they had obfuscation powerful enough to bypass blocks in countries such as the UAE and China. Finally, we scored their customer service — specifically whether they had live chat available for immediate help when needed.

We combined these scores to generate an overall score out of 10 for each provider’s network and functionality.

When compared, it’s clear that most of the providers are fairly evenly matched — though NordVPN was the best overall. The providers with the lower scores lost out due to not working in China (ProtonVPN) and having a small network (PrivateVPN).

Security and privacy

To stay safe online in the UAE, we’d highly recommend opting for a provider that scores highly across the 16 security and privacy metrics shown in the table below.

To more easily compare providers’ relative protective abilities, we scored each of the above metrics and combined them into an overall score out of 10.

NordVPN and Surfshark were the standout providers, with overall scores of 9.5 out of 10. All the tested VPNS performed notably well, meaning they’re all capable of providing suitably secure and private connections for users in the UAE.

Ease of use

If you’d rather be making WhatsApp calls then messing around with VPN software, then make sure to choose one that scores highly across the 10 metrics shown in the table below.

As before, we scored each of the above metrics and combined them into an overall ease-of-use score for comparison.

NordVPN was the easiest to use provider overall, with a score of 9.6. ExpressVPN also performed well, with a score of 9.3. Both are great choices for anyone who wants to access WhatsApp calling in the UAE with the minimum of fuss.

Value for money

If you want access to WhatsApp calling in the UAE you’re going to need a VPN subscription — free services just won’t cut it. While prices vary, it’s not always a good idea to simply opt for the lowest. To try and more accurately measure each service’s worth, we evaluated them against the eight metrics shown below.

Again, we scored each of the metrics, before combining them to give an overall score out of 10.

Surfshark and NordVPN scored highest, suggesting that they offer users the best overall value for money.

How does WhatsApp work?

WhatsApp is a free, multi-platform messaging app that lets you send texts, make voice and video calls, and share media. It is best used over Wi-Fi. It uses your phone number for identification and adds anyone who uses WhatsApp to your contact list. The app uses powerful end-to-end encryption, ensuring only the sender and recipient can read the messages. This encryption is also used in other services such as iCloud and Google Drive backups. WhatsApp uses the Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol (XMPP) for user data exchange. The app, which is used worldwide, supports group video calls with up to eight participants, and the call quality depends on your internet connection. However, there’s a loophole in the encryption: recipients can flag messages, copy them on their device, and send them to Meta for review. Just a point to note.

VPNs to unblock WhatsApp calling in UAE FAQs