With 4 million users ExpressVPN remains one of the most popular and trusted VPN services for users in UAE in 2024. However, even the best VPN providers can encounter occasional connectivity issues or service disruptions.
If your ExpressVPN is not working in UAE, don’t worry—there are several quick and tested fixes you can try to get it working again. The best VPN service routes your connection through its server, masking your IP, encrypting data, and bypassing geo-blocks for secure access to global content.
Key Takeaways:
- Quick fixes for ExpressVPN not connecting: Restart the app, change the server location, or clear your cache. If needed, contact customer support.
- Support and Customer Service: Visit the ExpressVPN website, access the Help Center, use Live Chat, or submit a support ticket.
- Fixing ExpressVPN on Different Operating Systems: Ensure compatibility, update software, and configure settings correctly for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers.
- Insights from Reddit: Change to a different VPN service temporarily. Redditors found this effective.
ExpressVPN Not Working in UAE [10 Quick Fixes]
There can be multiple reasons why ExpressVPN keeps disconnecting and may not be working for you in UAE. Below, you will find some of the most common causes of why ExpressVPN is not working and their solutions.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Before concluding that ExpressVPN is malfunctioning, ensure your internet connection is active. Disconnect from ExpressVPN and try accessing a webpage. If successful, your internet is fine. If not, troubleshoot your network on Windows 11 by following these steps I have mentioned:
- Click the Windows symbol on your taskbar or keyboard.
Click the Windows symbol.
- Search for “Find and fix network problems” and click on the first result.
Click on the first result.
- Follow the prompts to troubleshoot your internet connection.
If your connection is slow, ExpressVPN might not load, and it might appear that ExpressVPN is causing issues. Test your internet speed by searching for speed test” on Google and using tools like Speedtest by Ookla.
If the speed is slow, try moving closer to your router or using an ethernet cable for a better connection. Switching internet providers could be another option.
2. Disable Your Firewall or Whitelist ExpressVPN
The Windows Defender firewall or other firewalls might sometimes prevent ExpressVPN from opening. Temporarily disable your firewall to check if this resolves the issue. Here’s how:
- Open the Windows start menu.
- Navigate to “Firewall & network protection.”
- Disable the firewall temporarily to test the connection.
If disabling the firewall fixes the issue, add ExpressVPN to the whitelist to prevent future blocks.
3. Connect to a Different Server
Switching to a different server is a simple yet effective solution for resolving some common issues if ExpressVPN is not connecting. Sometimes, problems such as VPN not connecting or slow speeds may be linked to the distance between you and the server or specific issues that only affect certain servers.
ExpressVPN offers a wide selection of servers worldwide, ensuring you can easily find one that provides a stable connection without issues.
To switch servers in ExpressVPN:
- Open the application
Open ExpressVPN.
- Click on the three dots next to “Selected Location” to view other available servers.
- Select a server of your choice.
- Hit the “Connect” button to connect to the new server.
This step can significantly improve your VPN experience, especially if the current server is experiencing temporary difficulties.
4. Switch to a Different Protocol
Changing the VPN protocol within the ExpressVPN app can sometimes solve connectivity issues or when ExpressVPN service is unreachable. This minor adjustment can lead to significant improvements in performance.
Here’s how to change the VPN protocol in ExpressVPN:
- Launch the ExpressVPN application.
- Click on the three horizontal bars in the top-left corner to open the menu and select “Options.”
- Navigate to the “Protocol” section at the top of the menu.
- Choose a different protocol from the list and click “OK” to apply the changes.
Each VPN protocol has its strengths and is optimized for different network conditions. Experimenting with these can be beneficial, especially if you’re experiencing problems. While trying various protocols is advisable, using OpenVPN is generally recommended for its optimal mix of security and speed.
5. Update ExpressVPN app
If you’re using an older app, you should get the latest version to get ExpressVPN login. Otherwise, you may experience that it is unable to sign in. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Uninstall your existing ExpressVPN app.
- Visit ExpressVPN‘s website and download the latest app.
- Install the app on your device, and ExpressVPN will sign in to your account.
Since outdated app versions are no longer officially supported, they tend to develop bugs and connection errors and cause ExpressVPN problems. Moreover, running these apps is risky from a security point of view.
Outdated apps are also the primary reason VPN Express does not work in China. So, it is important to ensure that you always run the latest version of ExpressVPN for stable performance and security in UAE.
6. Disable Your Antivirus (Whitelist ExpressVPN)
It’s possible that your antivirus software mistakenly identifies ExpressVPN or another VPN app as malicious software, which can prevent the VPN app from operating correctly.
Additionally, many antivirus programs include a built-in firewall, which might also contribute to blocking the connections required for ExpressVPN to function effectively.
To address this issue:
- Temporarily disable your antivirus software to check if it is causing the problem with ExpressVPN.
Temporarily disable your antivirus and diagnose information.
- If disabling the antivirus resolves the issue, consider adjusting its settings to exclude ExpressVPN from being blocked or treated as a threat.
- Check if the antivirus’s built-in firewall is part of the problem and consider disabling it or setting an exception for ExpressVPN, just as you would with your standard firewall settings.
Ensure your antivirus and firewall recognize ExpressVPN as safe to maintain security and VPN functionality.
7. Uninstall Other VPN Apps (Mobile Devices)
Running more than one VPN app simultaneously can lead to ExpressVPN down problems, as only one VPN can effectively operate at a time. This is especially true on mobile devices, where processes overlap and create conflicts.
Uninstalling VPN Apps on Android:
- Find the VPN app you wish to uninstall on your home screen or in your library.
- Tap and hold the app icon, then drag it towards the top of the screen to the “Uninstall” option.
- Release the icon over “Uninstall” and confirm by tapping “Uninstall” again.
Uninstalling VPN Apps on iPhone:
If ExpressVPN not working on iPhone, follow the below steps:
- Locate the ExpressVPN app on your home screen or in your app library.
- Press and hold the app icon until options appear.
- Tap “Remove app” or “Delete app,” then follow the prompts to completely remove the app from your device.
By ensuring that only one VPN app is installed, you can prevent potential conflicts and maintain stable connectivity with ExpressVPN.
8. Clear Your App Cache
Cache memory is crucial for apps to retrieve data efficiently, but when it’s full, it can lead to operational issues with apps like ExpressVPN. Clearing the cache can help resolve these problems and improve app performance.
Clearing Cache on Android:
- Navigate to Settings on your device.
- Go to About phone, then Storage.
- Select Apps and data and find ExpressVPN in the list of apps.
- Tap on ExpressVPN, then choose Clear cache.
- Confirm the action by tapping OK.
Offloading App on iPhone:
- On iPhone, directly clearing an app’s cache isn’t available, but you can offload the app, which removes the app while preserving its documents and settings.
- To offload ExpressVPN:
- Open Settings and tap on General.
- Select iPhone Storage and locate ExpressVPN.
- Tap on Offload App and confirm by tapping Offload App again.
Offloading and reinstalling the app essentially refreshes its cache without losing any important settings or data, making it useful when troubleshooting app performance issues in UAE.
9. Remove and Reinstall ExpressVPN
Removing and reinstalling the app might resolve the issue if ExpressVPN still doesn’t work after you try all available troubleshooting tips. This process ensures you use the latest version of ExpressVPN, which may include fixes for any problems you’re experiencing.
On Windows:
- Click the Windows symbol in your taskbar or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
- Type “ExpressVPN” into the search bar.
- Click on “Uninstall.”
- You will be directed to a list of installed programs. Locate ExpressVPN and select it.
- Confirm by selecting “Yes” to uninstall.
- After uninstallation, visit the ExpressVPN website to download and reinstall the latest version.
On Android:
- Follow the steps outlined previously for uninstalling other VPN apps, but this time for ExpressVPN:
- Locate ExpressVPN on your home screen or app library.
- Tap and hold the app icon, drag it to the “Uninstall” section, and confirm by tapping “Uninstall.”
- After uninstalling, visit the Google Play Store and download the latest version of ExpressVPN.
On iPhone:
- Use the steps for uninstalling other VPN apps:
- Find ExpressVPN on your home screen or in your app library.
- Press and hold the app icon until the options menu appears.
- Select “Remove app” or “Delete app” and confirm the deletion.
- To reinstall, go to the App Store, search for ExpressVPN, and download it again.
Reinstalling ExpressVPN ensures a clean installation, potentially eliminating issues caused by corrupt files or outdated versions.
10. Contact ExpressVPN’s Customer Support
If you’re still having VPN issues after trying all the suggested fixes, it may be time to contact the ExpressVPN customer service team for help. The company is widely known for its responsive and supportive nature.
Instead of offering an ExpressVPN phone number, its support has opted for a text-based customer support model centered around live chat and email.
For the quickest assistance, consider using their live chat feature:
- Visit the ExpressVPN website.
Visit the ExpressVPN website and chat.
- Look for and click on the green banner that says, “Need help? Chat with us!”.
- Enter the email address linked to your ExpressVPN account and click “Start chat.”
Once connected, you can discuss your issues with an ExpressVPN customer service representative, who will assist you in troubleshooting and resolving the problem.
Fixes for ExpressVPN Not Working in Specific Situations in UAE
People often find themselves facing ExpressVPN not opening on devices. You may also find a similar error with geo-restricted streaming platforms with ExpressVPN or might find your ExpressVPN not working with YouTube TV.
So, here are some services, devices, and platforms that ExpressVPN is often reported to exhibit problems with and their quick fixes in UAE. Chances are a single solution may work for most platforms, so you may want to try the following solutions for a platform that’s not mentioned below:
- ExpressVPN not working with the Router
- ExpressVPN not working on Android
- ExpressVPN not working on Netflix
- ExpressVPN not working with Amazon Prime
- ExpressVPN not working with Firestick
- ExpressVPN Surfshark not working with Torrents
- ExpressVPN not working with Email
- ExpressVPN not working with Google
- ExpressVPN not working with Mobile Data
- ExpressVPN not working with Safari
ExpressVPN not working with the Router
ExpressVPN may not be working with routers because of connectivity issues. It offers firmware for certain brands and models of routers to facilitate easy connectivity. You can learn about configuring a VPN on a router in the guide for ExpressVPN router setup in UAE.
If you have a VPN connected but no internet and cannot connect after successfully installing and configuring the firmware, try removing all cables between your computer, modem, router, and any other devices, turn off the router for 30 seconds, and turn it back on. Also, make sure you are using the latest version of ExpressVPN.
ExpressVPN not working on Android
Your ExpressVPN on Android may not work if you have other VPN apps or profiles installed on your device. These can interfere with the VPN’s functionality. To resolve this, you should remove any other VPN apps or profiles. You can do this via Settings > Wi-Fi & internet > VPN.
Other possible reasons why your VPN on Android may not work include that the VPN server location you’re trying to connect to is undergoing maintenance, your antivirus or online security application is blocking the VPN connection, or you are not using the latest version of the app. In particularly severe cases, the result might be that ExpressVPN won’t open at all.
Another reason your ExpressVPN app may not work on Android devices is that your device might interfere with your VPN connection. Several factors can prevent the app from establishing a secure internet connection.
Here are two common culprits to look out for if you are unable to connect to ExpressVPN on your Android device :
1. Other VPN apps and their profiles installed on your device can interfere with ExpressVPN and prevent it from working properly. To remove a VPN profile from your Android device, follow these steps:
- Settings –> Wi-Fi & internet –> VPN.
- Tap on the gear icon next to all the other VPN apps on your device.
- Tap on Forget VPN one by one.
2. The battery optimization feature on Huawei and Samsung phones often prevents ExpressVPN from establishing a connection because ExpressVPN does not work. Here’s how to disable the battery optimization option:
- ‘Settings’ –> ‘Apps & notifications.’
- ‘Advanced’ –> ‘Special app access.’
- ‘Battery optimization’ —> ‘All apps.’
- Tap on the ExpressVPN app.
- Finally, tap on ‘Don’t optimize‘ –> ‘Done.’
Also, download the latest ExpressVPN update and contact ExpressVPN support if the issue persists.
ExpressVPN not working on Netflix in UAE
ExpressVPN is highly effective for streaming on Netflix, and typically, users experience smooth access during tests. However, if you do encounter difficulties with ExpressVPN Netflix not working together, here are some steps you can take:
- Make sure you’re logged into your Netflix account, then ExpressVPN login.
- Open a new Incognito window in your browser, or try a different browser to minimize detection via your browser fingerprint.
- Switch to a different ExpressVPN server, as some servers may be overcrowded, affecting connectivity.
- If these steps don’t resolve the issue, contact ExpressVPN’s customer support. Their knowledgeable team is ready to assist you with any challenges you might face using the VPN.
Nonetheless, you can use ExpressVPN with Netflix in UAE, and users generally won’t experience any hurdles when using it to stream their favorite content.
ExpressVPN not working with Amazon Prime
If Amazon Prime detects your real location, it might block access even when using a reliable VPN so that ExpressVPN won’t open. To address this, you can try the following methods to ensure ExpressVPN works with Prime:
- Use a privacy-centric browser such as Mozilla Firefox, or open your current browser in Incognito Mode to avoid detection.
- Make sure to log into your Amazon Prime account before connecting through ExpressVPN.
- Switch to a different server on ExpressVPN to find one that Amazon Prime might not detect.
- If you continue to face issues, contact ExpressVPN’s support team for assistance with bypassing Amazon Prime’s geo-restrictions.
- Consider trying another VPN service; NordVPN is highly effective at overcoming geo-blocks on platforms like Amazon Prime.
On the other hand, you may reach out to ExpressVPN’s customer support to help you find the most effective servers for unblocking Amazon Prime with ExpressVPN in UAE.
ExpressVPN not working on Firestick
If you’re experiencing issues using ExpressVPN with your Firestick, here are some strategies to help resolve the problem:
- Update your Firestick account information to match the country whose content you wish to access. Keeping it set to your actual location might restrict access to certain content.
- Navigate to the Applications” settings on your Firestick and clear the cache to eliminate any stored data causing issues.
- Try connecting to a different server location in ExpressVPN to see if another server offers better compatibility.
- If these steps don’t resolve the issue, contact the ExpressVPN customer support team for further assistance.
ExpressVPN not working with Torrents
ExpressVPN supports P2P file sharing (torrenting) on all of its servers. If you run into any issues while torrenting with ExpressVPN in UAE, consider the following steps to resolve them:
- Verify that there are sufficient seeders for the file you’re attempting to download.
- Switch to a different ExpressVPN server, especially if the current one is overloaded with users.
- Try pausing and restarting the download, as this can sometimes kickstart the process.
- Explore other torrent sites that might have better availability or more seeders.
- Contact the ExpressVPN support team for assistance. They can provide detailed guidance to help troubleshoot and resolve your issue.
ExpressVPN not working with Email
To address the problems with ExpressVPN when using your email, try these steps:
- Update your email application to the newest version.
- Alter the outgoing port number from 25 to 587.
- Temporarily disconnect from ExpressVPN to access your email, mainly if using an ISP’s email server that restricts access from external networks.
ExpressVPN not working with Google
If you’re experiencing difficulties using Google services while connected to ExpressVPN, consider the following fixes:
- Ensure you have the most recent version of ExpressVPN installed.
- Try connecting to a different server location.
- Switch your VPN protocol to solve connectivity issues potentially.
- Include ExpressVPN in your antivirus or online security software’s whitelist.
- If problems persist, reach out to the ExpressVPN Support Team for assistance.
ExpressVPN not working with Mobile Data
When ExpressVPN doesn’t work with your mobile data, these steps can help diagnose and fix the issue:
- Confirm you have a working internet connection, which is a fundamental requirement.
- Update or reinstall the VPN app if updates are not solving the issue.
- Ensure you are connected to a suitable VPN server that matches your needs.
- To avoid conflicts, check if the VPN’s IP address aligns with your phone’s GPS location.
- Consider changing your VPN protocol to see if it improves connectivity.
ExpressVPN not working with Safari
For a smooth experience with ExpressVPN on Safari, follow these steps:
- Empty your browser’s cache and delete cookies, as it might cause disruptions in a VPN connection.
- Open a private browsing session so no cached data or cookies impact your VPN session.
- Verify if the VPN connection has improved after clearing the cache and using a private window.
Why is ExpressVPN Not Working on Different Operating Systems?
There are various reasons why ExpressVPN is not working with different operating systems. Compatibility issues, outdated software, or incorrect settings are common culprits.
Windows
ExpressVPN may not work on Windows if your firewall or antivirus software blocks the VPN. Ensure you have the latest version of the ExpressVPN app installed and that Windows Defender or any third-party antivirus is not interfering with the connection.
macOS
ExpressVPN might face issues with MacOS due to security settings or network configurations. Ensure the app permissions are correctly set, and your macOS is updated to the latest version. Additionally, try disabling any third-party security software blocking the VPN.
iOS
ExpressVPN may not work on iOS if conflicting VPN profiles are installed. Remove any other VPN profiles and ensure the ExpressVPN app has the necessary permissions. Also, check for the latest iOS updates and ExpressVPN app updates.
Android
ExpressVPN might encounter issues on Android due to battery optimization settings or network restrictions. Disable battery optimization for the ExpressVPN app and check if your carrier or device settings set any network restrictions. Ensure that the app is up to date.
Linux
ExpressVPN may not work on Linux if configuration errors or missing dependencies exist. Verify that all required dependencies are installed and the configuration files are correctly set up. Consult the ExpressVPN support documentation for specific Linux troubleshooting steps.
Routers
ExpressVPN might not work on routers if the firmware is outdated or incorrectly configured. Ensure that your router’s firmware is up to date and that the VPN settings are properly configured according to ExpressVPN’s guidelines.
Why is ExpressVPN not Working with Certain Websites?
ExpressVPN might not work with certain websites due to geo-restrictions or IP blacklisting. Websites often block known VPN IP addresses to prevent users from accessing content unavailable in their region. This is common with streaming services and some secure websites.
Another reason could be DNS leaks or incorrect settings. If your device’s DNS settings are not configured correctly, it can expose your real IP address, causing websites to block access. Ensuring proper DNS settings and using ExpressVPN’s DNS servers can help mitigate this issue.
ExpressVPN Support and Customer Service
If you find that the app cannot reach ExpressVPN systems or encounter other issues even after following all the steps, then I recommend contacting ExpressVPN ‘s customer support.
To get adequate support from ExpressVPN, follow these steps:
- Visit the ExpressVPN Website: Go to ExpressVPN’s official website.
- Access the Help Center: Click on the Help Center or Support link at the bottom of the page.
- Search for Solutions: Use the search bar to find solutions to common problems or browse the FAQs.
- Live Chat: If you need immediate assistance, click the Live Chat button to connect with a support agent. This service is available 24/7.
- Submit a Ticket: You can submit a support ticket if your issue is not urgent. Provide detailed information about your problem and wait for a response via email.
Include screenshots or error messages in your support request for the best results. This helps the support team diagnose and resolve your issue more efficiently.
ExpressVPN Alternatives in UAE
I tried all the methods above and still not getting anywhere. Maybe it’s time to try a different VPN and cancel your ExpressVPN subscription in UAE.
In such cases, looking at other VPN options could be beneficial. Here are the most well-rounded VPN providers in the market:
| VPNs |  |
 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD2.49/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee | USD3.99/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free |
| Servers | 3200+ servers in 100+ countries | 6000 servers in 61 countries |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat & email | 24/7 live chat & email |
| Logging Policy | Zero Logs | Zero Logs |
| Jurisdiction | The Netherlands | Panama |
| Netflix unblocking | Strong | Strong |
| Free Trial | Surfshark free trial | NordVPN free trial |
| Refund | 30 days money-back guarantee | 30 days money-back guarantee |
| Reviews | Surfshark review | NordVPN review |
| Website | Surfshark | NordVPN |
Are Reddit Users in UAE Facing Issues with ExpressVPN?
Some Reddit users have noted occasional difficulties using ExpressVPN for streaming services like Hulu and Netflix or ExpressVPN not working with Mac. The company is aware of these issues and diligently works towards a resolution, although a specific timeframe has not yet been established.
In the meantime, a few users have explored other VPN options to maintain seamless access to their favorite shows. On my end, there have been some minor hiccups, potentially linked to ISP configurations, but ExpressVPN’s responsive 24/7 chat support has effectively addressed these concerns swiftly.
ExpressVPN quickly response to your queries on live chat.
FAQs – ExpressVPN Not Working in UAE
Is ExpressVPN still working in UAE?
Yes, ExpressVPN is still working and remains committed to providing a secure VPN connection. It achieves this through techniques like IP masking with its extensive global server network and by employing industry-standard 256-bit AES encryption to protect your data and privacy.
Why is ExpressVPN not activating in UAE?
Maintenance on the VPN server location might be causing issues with activation. Additionally, your antivirus or online security software could block the VPN connection. Ensure that you are using the most recent version of the ExpressVPN app to avoid such problems.
Why is ExpressVPN blocking my internet in UAE?
If you’re connected to ExpressVPN but unable to browse the internet, it may be due to poor connectivity at your current VPN server location or interference from your internet service provider. These factors can disrupt your internet access when connected to a VPN.
Why is ExpressVPN connection so slow in UAE?
A slow connection with ExpressVPN could result from several issues, such as a memory leak on your mobile device, packet loss, buggy software, insufficient bandwidth, or a problem with your ISP. Addressing these issues may help improve your connection speed.
Why some apps don’t work with ExpressVPN in UAE?
Blocking by apps, websites, online services, or ISPs could prevent access when using ExpressVPN. There could also be connectivity issues between the VPN server and the specific app, website, or service you are attempting to reach. This interference can affect app functionality over the VPN.
How do I make sure ExpressVPN is working in UAE?
Utilize ExpressVPN’s IP Address Checker to verify your IP address. When you have successfully connected, the displayed IP address will correspond to the location you are connected to through the VPN. Additionally, you will receive a confirmation message stating that Your IP address is protected.”
Why is ExpressVPN not Working on LAN/Ethernet to watch Netflix in UAE?
ExpressVPN may not work on LAN/Ethernet to watch Netflix because you may need to reconfigure your ExpressVPN settings. To do that, check your split tunneling option and block the app settings that aren’t favorable to streaming Netflix.
Why is my VPN connected but not working?
Your VPN may be connected but not working due to issues such as network congestion, server overload, misconfigured settings, or software conflicts on your device, which can hinder the VPN’s ability to establish a stable and functional connection despite being technically connected.
Conclusion
ExpressVPN is probably the most popular VPN brand in the market. Yet, even this VPN isn’t immune to errors and annoying bugs. If you’re using it, try the methods mentioned above to resolve the ExpressVPN issues you may face.
If all else fails, you can always choose a better alternative; however, I am sure it won’t disappoint you. So make sure you get rid of ExpressVPN not working in UAE by trying the fixes I’ve suggested. If you face any issues, feel free to reach out to us.