Are you looking for information on how to open blocked sites in UAE? While the latter is not as conservative as other countries in the Middle East, Emirate authorities do enforce a cloud of censorship over its citizens. As a result, some popular websites and Internet-based services like Skype, Discord, and Facetime are inaccessible to users in the UAE. Fortunately, there is a way to get around such restrictions with the help of a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
In this article, we will show you everything that you need to know about how to access blocked sites in UAE by going over the following:
Table of Contents
Can I Use VPN in UAE (Legal Aspect)?
Strictly speaking, the use of a VPN service is perfectly legal in the UAE. That said, the Telecom Regulatory Authority (TRA) uses powerful anti-VPN software to block VPN services in a bid to enforce Internet censorship in the region. As a result, only a few VPNs in the market are capable of unblocking geo-blocked content in the UAE.
Also, keep in mind that while the use of a VPN isn’t illegal, using the latter to access prohibited content can constitute a criminal offense. In general, any content that goes against the nation’s interest, security, morality, and public order is illegal.
Such content includes:
- Pornography
- Fraud (phishing and identity theft)
- Drugs
- Gambling websites
- Content that deals with religious contempt, racism, and bigotry
In short, the use of a VPN is only illegal if used to commit a crime.
Step-by-Step Process for Unblocking Websites in UAE
VPNs enable users to get around content restrictions by routing and encrypting one’s Internet connection to an external VPN server located in another region. The specific steps for unblocking websites can vary depending on the VPN service that you are using. For this example, we’ll be referencing the use of a VPN service called NordVPN.
Sign up. The first step is to get an account with your chosen VPN. In the case of NordVPN, you can get access to their VPN network for $11.95 per month or $3.49 per month if you sign up for a 3-year plan.
Install the VPN app. The next step is to download and install the VPN app specific to your device. Most reputable VPN services offer compatible apps for popular Internet devices and operating systems.
Log in. Open the VPN app and log-on to your chosen VPN service. You’ll need a username and password which you ought to already have after signing up for an account.
Select a server. Most VPNs offer a list of server locations straight from the app home screen. Choose a specific country where your desired website is readily accessible. In the case of NordVN, you can select a country from the left menu or choose one directly from the map interface. Alternatively, you can click on the “Quick Connect” button which will automatically connect you to the nearest and fastest VPN server based on your location.
Check that you are connected. The VPN app will notify you that you are now connected to your chosen VPN server. At this point, you should now be able to open the blocked website as though you’re doing it from outside the UAE.
List of Free VPNs and Paid VPNs to Use in the UAE
Free VPNs to unblock websites in UAE
- Hotspot Shield
- TunnelBear
- WindScribe
- Assguard
- Speedify
- ProtonVPN
- Hide.me
- OperaVPN (Opera browser only)
- Private Tunnel
Paid VPNs to unblock websites in UAE
- NordVPN
- ExpressVPN
- PrivateVPN
- IPVanish
- VyprVPN
Summary
As long you’re not doing anything illegal, the use of a VPN is perfectly legal in the UAE. Hence, you need not let the Internet censorship in the region hinder you from accessing your favorite websites that you use for work, entertainment, or to keep in touch with friends and loved ones.
