UAE Residents Allowed to Use VPN But Misuse Remains a Concern

UAE’s head of cybersecurity, Muhammad Al Kuwaiti, clarified that VPN use is permitted among residents but the misuse of these services is a concern. In 2023, VPN downloads in the UAE increased to 6.1 million, outperforming the 2020 numbers. On the other hand, as per Decree Law No (34) of 2021, using VPNs for illegal activities or to evade content blocked by the government is a severe crime punishable with jail term and fines from Dh500,000 to Dh2 million.

Nord Security observed that VPN usage was common in the UAE for audio-video calls through platforms like WhatsApp, Skype, Facetime, Discord, and dating apps. It indicates that there is a significant interest in the population due to the fact that 6.1 million downloads occurred in the past year.

Al Kuwaiti highlighted the protentional increase of cybersecurity threats, assuring that a part of the ransomware attacks could be caused by the use of AI to generate phishing emails and check infiltration codes. However, he underscored the importance of AI in defense of cyber threats. The UAE seeks to become an AI nation by 2071 using AI to find and detect risks before they occur.

Recognizing the changing environment, Al Kuwaiti applauded the UAE’s dynamic policies that allow businesses to develop while safeguarding vital infrastructure. This is a country that continues to champion in preemptive cybersecurity measures where AI plays a vital role in protecting their economy from future threats.