How To Get a UAE IP Address in 2025: Works Anywhere

Many UAE online services strictly limit access to users with local IP addresses. For example, Emirates NBD and First Abu Dhabi Bank often block connections from foreign IPs. Even streaming services like MBC Shahid and Dubai Sports restrict some content to viewers in the country.

What’s the safest way to access UAE official websites? Over 61.7% of UAE residents use VPNs as the best option for getting a UAE IP address and accessing local content safely from anywhere (Just Dubai, 2023).¹ A VPN with servers in the UAE provides a local IP address and encrypts your traffic to protect your data when using banking apps, shopping websites, and streaming platforms.

How To Get a UAE IP Address From Anywhere: Complete Step-By-Step Guide

The most reliable and secure way to get a UAE IP is with a VPN that has servers in the country. Alternative solutions simply don’t measure up. Proxies expose your data since they don’t encrypt your traffic, while Tor significantly slows down your connection due to its multi-layered routing. Smart DNS can reliably access some UAE content, but won't provide a UAE IP address.

However, it’s important to know that a UAE IP has the same internet restrictions that residents face. You won’t be able to freely use dating apps like Tinder or access certain types of news and VoIP services such as WhatsApp calls, Skype, Discord, TeamSpeak, and FaceTime while connected to a UAE server.

1. Choose a High-Quality VPN with UAE Servers

Which VPN can provide a reliable Dubai IP? A VPN with servers in the UAE can help access content restricted to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and more. Online threats also remain a serious concern in the country — ransomware attacks rose by 32% in 2024, with total losses since 2020 hitting $2.5 billion (Intelligent CIO, 2025)². So, consider a VPN with strong security features to prevent tracking, targeting, or exposure to threats through a tampered connection.

The best UAE VPNs also offer split tunneling — a feature that lets you choose which apps to route through a UAE server, while the rest of your traffic uses your regular IP address.

2. Download and Install the VPN

Visit the VPN provider's website and download the right app for your device. Most top VPNs offer dedicated apps for all major operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and smart TVs. On mobile, just head to the Play Store or App Store and install it like any other app.

3. Connect to a UAE Server

Open the VPN app and select a server location in the UAE. Click the connect button and wait a few seconds for the connection to establish.

4. Verify Your UAE IP Address

Use a reliable IP checker to confirm that your connection is routing through a UAE server. Once it shows a Dubai or UAE IP, you're good to go.

5. Start Browsing With Your UAE IP Address

Now you can securely access local services and browse websites like Dubizzle, Khaleej Times, Shahid, and Dubai One, or access UAE-only platforms such as Etisalat services, while maintaining privacy. It’s also handy for securely staying connected to your UAE bank accounts while abroad.

FAQs on Getting a UAE IP Address With a VPN

Is it legal to use a VPN for a UAE IP address?

The UAE allows VPN usage specifically for business and security purposes. While getting a UAE IP address through a VPN is permitted, the law states that VPNs cannot be used to bypass restrictions on banned websites or VoIP services. You can use a reliable VPN to protect sensitive data, like when accessing UAE banking services or conducting business activities.

How else can I get a UAE IP apart from a VPN?

Alternative methods include proxy servers, Smart DNS services, and the Tor browser. However, none come close to the performance of a high-quality VPN.

A Smart DNS service can also provide HD-friendly access to content in the UAE, but it won't change your IP address. Neither proxies nor Smart DNS services use encryption, leaving you vulnerable to cyberattacks. The Tor browser provides encryption, but is usually far too slow for streaming or online gaming activities.

How do I know my IP address has changed to the UAE?

After connecting to a UAE server, use an IP checking tool. If it shows your location as the United Arab Emirates, you've successfully obtained a UAE IP address. You should also test for DNS leaks using a tool like vpnMentor's IP checker to verify that your connection is fully secure. Many VPN apps also display your current server location and IP address directly in their interface, letting you quickly verify your UAE connection.

Can I use a free VPN to obtain a UAE IP address?

Most free VPNs don't have servers in the UAE, making getting a UAE IP address difficult. The few that do often get blocked quickly and can't maintain stable connections. Premium VPNs with a money-back guarantee are a safer option, as they can provide access to reliable UAE servers without compromising privacy or security. Meanwhile, many free VPNs collect and sell user data to advertisers, which defeats the purpose of using a VPN for privacy.

References

1. 1. https://www.just-dubai.com/article/news/news/surge-in-vpn-downloads-uae-records-183-million/3857/
   2. https://www.intelligentcio.com/me/2025/05/11/ransomware-attacks-in-uae-increased-32-yoy-in-2024-says-uae-cybersecurity-council/