UAE tops global VPN usage with 6 million downloads: But is it legal? What every resident must know

The UAE leads global VPN adoption, with 6.1 million downloads in the first half of 2025 and an average 65.78% adoption rate since 2020. VPNs help residents bypass restrictions on VoIP, streaming, and privacy barriers. While usage is legal, misuse for illegal activities can incur fines between Dh500,000 and Dh2 million or imprisonment under Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021.