Best Overall - NordVPN

Still not sure which one’s right for you? No problem — here’s a detailed breakdown of each VPN so you can pick with confidence.

1 - NordVPN – Best Overall VPN for the GCC (Privacy + Performance)

If you're serious about online privacy and want a VPN that simply works in the GCC, NordVPN is the safest bet. With powerful obfuscated servers that hide VPN traffic, it consistently bypasses strict firewalls by Etisalat and Du — letting you unblock WhatsApp calls, Skype, Zoom, and more.

Based in Panama, NordVPN benefits from some of the strongest privacy laws in the world. That means it’s not subject to international surveillance alliances like the 5/9/14 Eyes, and it enforces a strict no-logs policy independently audited by third-party firms.

NordVPN is also one of the fastest VPNs available today. Whether you're trying to stream Netflix US, browse securely on public Wi-Fi, or bypass local restrictions at work, it delivers blazing speed and unmatched reliability. Plus, it includes extras like Double VPN, Threat Protection, and Meshnet — giving power users even more control and security.

Pros:

• Obfuscated servers (stealth VPN)

• Works reliably with Etisalat and Du

• Unlocks WhatsApp calls and VoIP

• Access to Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer

• Panama-based with audited no-logs policy

• 6 device connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than Surfshark

• Only 6 simultaneous connections

2 - Surfshark – Best Budget VPN for the GCC (Unlimited Devices)

Surfshark is perfect if you're looking for great value without sacrificing performance. It offers NoBorders mode, which helps it evade regional blocks and firewalls — ideal for users in the GCC trying to unblock WhatsApp, Skype, or access foreign streaming platforms.

Where Surfshark really shines is its unlimited device policy — so whether you're on a phone, laptop, smart TV, or tablet, you can use the same account for your whole household. That makes it extremely cost-effective, especially at a low starting price of just ~$2.49/month.

It’s based in the Netherlands, which, while part of the EU, still supports solid data privacy and is considered a "friendly jurisdiction" for VPN providers. It also comes with features like CleanWeb (ad & tracker blocker) and Camouflage Mode, which helps you blend in even on restricted networks.

Pros:

• Great for WhatsApp, Skype, and VoIP apps

• Works with Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+

• Unlimited device connections

• NoBorders and Camouflage Mode

• Ad blocker, tracker blocker, malware protection

• Affordable pricing

• 30-day refund guarantee

Cons:

• Slightly slower than NordVPN on long-distance servers

• Headquartered in the EU (Netherlands)

3 - ProtonVPN (Free) – Best Free VPN for the GCC (Basic Privacy Use)

ProtonVPN is one of the only legitimate free VPNs that doesn't sell your data or cap your bandwidth. That makes it a decent option for light browsing and privacy protection, especially for users who can’t afford a paid VPN right away.

However, it’s not ideal for users looking to unblock VoIP apps or streaming platforms. ProtonVPN’s free tier does not support streaming or torrenting, and it doesn’t work consistently on GCC networks for things like WhatsApp calls.

Still, it’s based in Switzerland, which has very strong privacy laws, and the service has a good reputation for transparency, open-source software, and strong encryption.

Pros:

• Free forever (no data caps)

• Strong privacy (Switzerland-based)

• Easy to use on all platforms

• Open-source and audited apps

Cons:

• Doesn’t unblock VoIP or streaming

• Limited speed and server access

• 1 device only (free plan)

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• Reliable access in UAE and the GCC

• 73% discount available

• Works with Netflix, YouTube, and more

• 30-day money-back guarantee

• Over 6,300 servers in 110+ countries, including optimized servers for streaming and privacy

• Obfuscated servers designed to bypass internet restrictions and VPN blocks — perfect for the GCC

• No-logs policy independently audited by third parties

• 24/7 customer support via live chat and email

• Blazing-fast speeds with NordLynx, a protocol based on WireGuard® for streaming and gaming

Best budget option - Surfshark

From $4.98 to $2.19/mo. + 3 mo. Extra - get now

• Reliable access in UAE and the GCC

• Up to 86% discount available

• Works with Netflix, YouTube, and more

• 30-day money-back guarantee

• Over 3,200 servers in 100 countries

• RAM-only servers for extra privacy and speed

• No-logs policy independently audited

• Unlimited devices with one subscription

• 24/7 customer support via live chat and email

• Blazing-fast speeds with WireGuard protocol

Best free option - ProtonVPN

Get now for free

• Free access with no data limits

• Servers in 5 countries

• Strong security features

• Single-device connection

• Limited streaming support

The best VPNs for UAE and the GCC (2025)

⭐9.8

⭐9.6

⭐7.2

Don’t waste time with long and confusing VPN lists — here are the top 3 VPNs for the UAE and GCC, tailored to your needs.

• Bypass censorship reliably with secure access in the GCC

• Save up to 86% on premium plans

• Stream Netflix & more without limits

• Cover Multiple devices with a single subscription

• 30-day money-back guarantee – risk-free