What's available

Streaming in the UAE gives you access to a solid range of services, each with decent local and international libraries. Here's what you can expect from the major platforms operating in the region.

  • Netflix UAE: Offers global hits like Stranger Things, Wednesday, Squid Game, and The Crown, plus a growing Arabic content library including Jinn and Al-Hayba.
  • Disney+ UAE: Covers Marvel titles like Loki and WandaVision, Star Wars series such as The Mandalorian, and Pixar films like Soul and Turning Red.
  • OSN+: A regional favourite with HBO content including House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, and Succession, plus Showtime originals.
  • Amazon Prime Video UAE: Includes The Boys, Reacher, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and regional Arabic productions.
  • Shahid: The leading Arabic streaming platform with exclusive shows like Al Hayba, Paranormal, and Ramadan specials.

What you're missing

Compared to US libraries, UAE viewers miss out on significant content across every platform.

  • Netflix: US-exclusive titles include Seinfeld, That '90s Show, and many stand-up specials. Several documentaries are geo-blocked in the UAE.
  • Disney+: Some Marvel and Fox titles remain unavailable, including certain episodes restricted for regional content guidelines.
  • Hulu: Entirely unavailable in the UAE. You're missing The Bear, Only Murders in the Building, and Abbott Elementary.
  • HBO Max (Max): Not officially available. Titles like Euphoria, White Lotus, and Barry are only accessible through OSN+ with limited availability.
  • Peacock and Paramount+: Both services are completely inaccessible without a VPN.

How to access other regions

A VPN lets you change your virtual location and unlock content libraries from other countries. Connect to a US server to access Hulu, Peacock, Paramount+, and full Netflix or Max libraries. We recommend NordVPN — it's fast, reliable, and consistently bypasses streaming geo-restrictions. Simply install the app, select a US server, and open your streaming service as normal.

Pricing

  • Netflix UAE: From AED 29/month (Standard with ads) to AED 55/month (Premium)
  • Disney+ UAE: From AED 29/month
  • OSN+: From AED 29/month
  • Amazon Prime Video: AED 19/month or AED 129/year
  • Shahid: From AED 19/month (Shahid VIP)

Our recommendation

The UAE has a genuinely good streaming ecosystem, but if you want the full picture — Hulu, Peacock, complete Netflix catalogues, and standalone Max — you'll need a VPN. NordVPN is your best tool for the job. Pair it with your existing UAE subscriptions and you'll have access to virtually everything available globally without paying for redundant services.