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How to Watch Hotstar in UAE [Subscriptions, Cost & Tips]

  • Last updated February 18, 2025
  • written by
    Editor
Get ready for the ultimate cricket showdown as eight top teams battle for glory in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025! Disney+ Hotstar in UAE is streaming all matches live

Struggling to watch Hotstar in UAE after enjoying it in India? Many users face this frustrating issue due to geo-restrictions blocking access to Hotstar’s content library. While some have tried using VPNs, proxies, and DNS, none of these methods work flawlessly, each with its own drawbacks.

However, my recommended VPNs can seamlessly unblock Disney+ Hotstar in the UAE, providing uninterrupted access to gripping dramas like Parachute, Harikatha, and Dreams Production. For a fast, reliable, and secure streaming experience, ExpressVPN stands out as the best solution.

⏳ Short on time? Don’t worry! Jump below to see a short and easy video tutorial on how to watch Hotstar in the UAE with a VPN.

How to Watch Hotstar in UAE [5 Easy Steps]

To watch Hotstar in UAE and enjoy the extensive library, follow these five easy steps:

  1. Select a VPN with high-speed Indian servers. I recommend ExpressVPN, which provides fast streaming speeds to watch Hotstar abroad without buffering.
  2. Install the VPN and connect to an Indian server. (My Recommended server is India via Singapore, as it works best with Hotstar in terms of speed)
  3. Navigate to the Hotstar website or launch the app.
  4. Create an account or log in if you already have one and stream Hotstar free a it is a free platform.
  5. Search for your favorite shows and start streaming securely in UAE.

Easy Video Tutorial to Watch Hotstar in UAE

Here is the video tutorial for you to easily watch Disney+ Hotstar in UAE:

Now, let’s look into the quick overview of the best VPNs for Hotstar in UAE.


What are the Best VPNs to Watch Disney Plus Hotstar in UAE? [Quick Overview]

When accessing Disney Plus Hotstar from UAE, choosing the right VPN can make all the difference. Here’s a quick overview of the top VPNs for watching Disney Plus Hotstar in UAE:


Why do You Need a VPN to Watch Disney+ Hotstar in UAE?

To access the Indian content library of Disney Plus Hotstar from anywhere, a buffer-free VPN is essential due to licensing agreements. While Disney+ is available in Australia, it does not give Hotstar content access.

Without a VPN, attempting to stream content from Disney Plus Hotstar will result in the following error message:

This content is currently not available in your region.

hotstar-geo-restriction-in-UAE

I faced this error when I tried to access Hotstar in UAE without a VPN.

Can Disney Hotstar be used in UAE? By connecting to an Indian server via a VPN, you get an Indian IP address. This process tricks Hotstar into believing you are accessing their services from India, allowing access to a wide array of shows and sports content that would otherwise be unavailable.

A VPN also ensures privacy and security while streaming, protecting personal data from threats. This makes it a necessary tool for anyone looking to get Hotstar in UAE extensive library.


Best VPNs to Watch Disney Plus Hotstar in UAE? [2025 In-Depth Analysis]

Since many VPN providers have discontinued offering servers in India due to logging policies, it has become difficult for viewers to select the best VPN for Disney Plus Hotstar. Therefore, I have conducted thorough testing of 50+ VPNs to bring you 3 VPNs with dedicated servers for Hotstar:

Let’s look into the detailed description of each VPN:


Evaluation Criteria for the Best VPN to Watch Disney Plus Hotstar in UAE?

When selecting the best VPN to watch Hotstar in UAE, you should consider specific criteria to ensure a seamless streaming experience. I have shortlisted the following factors to help you choose a VPN service that unblocks Disney Plus Hotstar and offers a high-quality viewing experience.

  1. Server Locations in India: Ensure the VPN has servers in India, as Disney Plus Hotstar is primarily available there. The more servers available, the better the chances of finding a fast connection.
  2. Speed and Reliability: A VPN with high-speed connections is crucial for Hotstar unblocking UAE without buffering or interruptions. I recommend a VPN known for its stable and fast servers, especially when connected to long-distance locations.
  3. Ability to Avoid Geographic Limitations: The VPN should be proficient in sidestepping geo-blocks. Some VPNs are better at this than others, so choose one that consistently unblocks Disney Plus Hotstar, it makes accessing Hotstar in countries with strict internet censorship easy.
  4. Strong Security Features: Look for a VPN with strong encryption standards and security protocols to ensure your online activities, including streaming, remain private and secure.
  5. User-Friendly Interface: A VPN should be easy to use, regardless of your technical expertise. Therefore, user-friendly apps for various devices are a must.
  6. Device Compatibility: The VPN should be compatible with various devices and operating systems, especially those you plan to watch Disney+ Hotstar.

Can I use a Free VPN to Watch Disney Plus Hotstar in UAE?

Yes, you can use free VPN for Hotstar. Some of the best free VPN for Hotstar in UAE can easily give access to the streaming platform. However, I do not recommend using them due to limited servers, slow streaming speeds, privacy and security concerns, and data caps.

What are the risks of using a free VPN to watch Hotstar in UAE? Free VPNs often store user data for profit to sell to third-party channels. Instead, a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN ensures an uninterrupted and secure streaming experience.


How Can I Use Hotstar in UAE without VPN?

Accessing Hotstar in UAE without a VPN can be challenging because the service is geo-restricted to certain regions. However, there are a few alternative methods you might consider:

1. Using a Smart DNS

Smart DNS services can help you overcome geo-limitations by rerouting your DNS queries through a server located in a different country where Hotstar is available.

How it works: Unlike a VPN, Smart DNS does not encrypt your traffic, so you maintain your internet speed. It simply masks your location, allowing you to access Hotstar.

Popular services: Smart DNS Proxy, Unlocator.

2. Proxy Servers

A proxy server can hide your actual IP address and make it appear as though you are browsing from a location where Hotstar is accessible.

Note: Many proxy servers are detected and blocked by Hotstar, so this might not be a reliable method.

3. Browser Extensions

Some browser extensions can circumvent geo-blocks, similar to how a proxy server works.

Example: Extensions like Hola or Browsec can sometimes allow you to access restricted content.

Warning: These extensions can be less secure and may not consistently work with Hotstar.

How does using a VPN compare to Smart DNS for accessing Hotstar in UAE?

Using a VPN for accessing Hotstar in UAE offers stronger encryption and privacy, ensuring your data is secure, but it may slightly impact your internet speed.

In contrast, Smart DNS provides faster streaming by only rerouting your DNS queries without encryption, but it lacks the privacy and security protections of a VPN. For a balance of speed and security, my recommeded VPNs are often the better choice.


How Can I Pay for Hotstar in UAE?

You can easily pay for Hotstar in UAE following these steps:

  • Get ExpressVPN: Ensure your ExpressVPN subscription is active and connected to an Indian server.
  • Create a Hotstar Account: Sign up on the Hotstar website.
  • Find the Fiverr Gig: Locate the gig of an Indian seller who offers to pay for Hotstar Premium using his Indian card.
  • Contact the Seller: Use the Contact seller” button on Fiverr to explain your request.
  • Complete the Payment: Pay the seller his fee plus the cost of the Hotstar Premium package.
  • Confirmation: The seller will complete the purchase and confirm it. You can then start watching Hotstar Premium.

Note: If you have Indian credit card so you can easily use your card for payment without approaching to anyone.


What are the Disney Plus Hotstar Compatible Devices in UAE?

Device compatibility is crucial when watching Disney Plus Hotstar in UAE. Fortunately, a multitude of devices supports this streaming service. Latest stats results that on hotstar.com, desktops drive 67.9% of visits, while 32.1% of visitors come from mobile devices, thus I have covered both configurations to answer how to watch Hotstar on mobile devices as well as desktop.

How to Watch Hotstar on Android in UAE?

Follow the steps below on how to download the Hotstar app in UAE:

  1. Subscribe and download a premium VPN. I recommend using ExpressVPN.
  2. Connect to an Indian server (I recommend India via Singapore).
  3. Create a new Gmail account with your current region set as UAE.
  4. Head to the Google Play Store and sign in with your newly created ID.
  5. Search for the Hotstar app and download it.
  6. Start streaming Disney Plus Hotstar on your Android device (Tested on Android Version 5.0 and above).

How to Watch Hotstar in UAE on iOS?

Follow the steps below to download the Disney Plus Hotstar app in UAE on iOS devices:

  1. Subscribe and download a premium VPN. ExpressVPN works best for me.
  2. Connect to any Indian server. (I recommend India via Singapore).
  3. Change your Apple ID region to India.
  4. Visit the App Store and install Hotstar.
  5. Sign in and stream Hotstar movies and shows in UAE on your iOS device (Hotstar Version 10.39 tested on iOS 14.5).

Get ExpressVPN - Editor Choice for iOS 30-day money-back guarantee

How to watch Hotstar on Mac in UAE?

Follow these steps to know how does Hotstar work in UAE on Mac:

  1. Sign up for a trustworthy VPN service. ExpressVPN is my top recommendation.
  2. On your Mac device, download the VPN app, then log in.
  3. Select System Preferences and then tap on Network.
  4. Select the Indian server from the Select VPN server > Configuration menu. (I recommend India via Singapore).
  5. Visit the Hotstar website to stream Disney+ Hotstar UAE on a Mac.

Get ExpressVPN - Editor Choice for Mac 30-day money-back guarantee

How to Watch Disney Hotstar in UAE on Windows?

To get Disney+ Hotstar on your Windows in UAE, follow these steps:

  1. Sign up for a trustworthy VPN service. I tested ExpressVPN, and it is the best.
  2. Open ExpressVPN and connect to the Indian server. (I recommend India via Singapore).
  3. On your PC, launch the Disney+ Hotstar official website.
  4. Enter your account information and watch Disney+ Hotstar UAE on your computer.

How Can I Watch Hotstar on My Smart TV in UAE?

Here’s how can you watch Hotstar in UAE on a Smart TV:

  1. Get a VPN membership. ExpressVPN is my top choice.
  2. Connect to a server in India (I recommend India via Singapore).
  3. Open the VPN app, then input your login information.
  4. To connect the router to the VPN service, go to the router’s setup page and follow the steps.
  5. Download the Hotstar in UAE app on your Smart TV.
  6. Sign up for free or log in to watch all your favorite shows.

Can I Use Hotstar in the UAE on Roku?

Yes, you can use Hotstar in the UAE on Roku with a VPN. Hotstar offers an app that is available on the Roku platform. Here’s how to download Hotstar app in UAE on Roku:

  1. Invest in a premium VPN subscription; I highly recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Open the VPN app and connect to the Indian server. I recommend India via the Singapore server.
  3. Choose a VPN network from the management page of your router.
  4. Install the Hotstar App on your Roku.
  5. Make a Hotstar account, then sign in.
  6. You can stream Disney Plus Hotstar on your Roku device.

Get ExpressVPN - Editor Choice for Roku 30-day money-back guarantee

How can I Watch Hotstar in the UAE on FireStick?

Here’s how to watch Hotstar in UAE on Firestick:

  1. Subscribe to a VPN. I found that ExpressVPN is the best choice as its buffer-free and does not lag.
  2. Install the VPN App on Firestick through Amazon Appstore.
  3. Open the VPN app, log in, and connect to an Indian server to mask your IP address.
  4. Go to the Amazon App Store, search for the Disney+ Hotstar app, and download it.
  5. Open the Disney+ Hotstar app, sign up for an account if you don’t have one, or log in if you already do.
  6. Once logged in, you can stream Hotstar in UAE on your Firestick.

How to Watch Disney+ Hotstar in UAE on Kodi?

Using the Hotstar Kodi add-on requires a VPN. Here’s how to install Hotstar in UAE on Kodi:

  1. Go to “Add-ons” in Kodi and choose “Install from repository.”
  2. Search for the Disney+ Hotstar add-on and install it.
  3. Open the add-on settings and enter your Disney+ Hotstar credentials. Save the settings.
  4. Return to the main menu, select the Disney+ Hotstar add-on, and start streaming.

Get ExpressVPN - Editor Choice for Kodi 30-day money-back guarantee

How to Watch Disney Plus Hotstar in UAE on Apple TV?

If you want to know how to add and activate Hotstar on Apple TV in UAE, follow the steps below:

  1. Subscribe to a VPN service that offers Indian servers. My recommended choice is ExpressVPN.
  2. Configure the VPN on the router and connect to an Indian server.
  3. Restart your Apple TV to ensure it recognizes the new VPN configuration.
  4. On your Apple TV, navigate to the App Store, search for the Disney+ Hotstar app, and download it.
  5. Sign in to your Disney+ Hotstar account or create a new one.
  6. You can now access Disney+ Hotstar’s extensive content library as if you were in India.

Note: New subscribers now must visit the official Hulu website to create an account, as subscriptions can no longer be made through the Apple App Store. This change is part of a strategic shift related to revenue-sharing policies between the platforms and Apple.


What to Watch on Disney Hotstar in UAE in 2025

Discover the extensive entertainment lineup on Disney+ Hotstar in 2025. From movies and TV shows to live sports events, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top movies, live sports, and TV shows to enjoy:

Discover what’s trending on Disney+ Hotstar in 2025:

Deadpool and Wolverine
India vs Bangladesh Women’s Semi Final Yakshini
India vs Pakistan Women’s Asia Cup T20 Womens Asia Cup Final
England vs South Africa T20 World Cup Commander Karan Saxena
Malayalee From India Manjummel Boys
Doctor Who The Acolyte

Best Shows to Watch on Disney+ Hotstar in UAE

Here’s the list of the best TV shows on Disney+ Hotstar in UAE to watch this weekend:

The Legend of Hanuman Season 4 Athidi
Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever Koffee with Karan Season 8
The Zone: Survival Mission Season 2 Aktris (Season 1)
The Freelancer: The Conclusion Arthdal Chronicles The Sword of Aramun
Matildas: The World at Our Feet The Making of World of Frozen
Hubungi Agen Gue Aashiqana Season 4
India vs England 2nd Semi-Final LEGO Disney Princess: The Castle Quest

Best Movies to Watch on Disney+ Hotstar in UAE

Here’s the list of the best movies on Disney Plus Hotstar in UAE:

Bloody Ishq Life Ki Hill Gayi
Peter Pan and Wendy Manjummel Boys Movie
The Impossible Heir RRR (2022)
Romancham Hideo Kojima: Connecting Worlds
Tracker The Slumber Party

Watch ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises an electrifying showdown as eight top teams compete for cricketing glory from February 19 to March 9, 2025. Fans can catch all the action live on Disney+ Hotstar in UAE with ExpressVPN


Why is Hotstar not Working with VPN in UAE?

Below, I’ve provided a range of troubleshooting strategies tested for resolving issues with Hotstar India not working when using a VPN, including general advice and device-specific tips:

Troubleshooting Hotstar VPN not Working Issues [Quick Tips]

Here I have listed some of the troubleshooting tips after testing if you are stuck in why Hotstar India is not working with VPN:

  1. Switch Servers: Sometimes, the server you are connected to might not work with Hotstar. Try connecting to a different Indian server on your VPN. Try using India via UK or India via Singapore server for best streaming experience without buffering.
  2. Clear Cache and Cookies: Your browser’s cache and cookies can store location information. Clear them to prevent Hotstar from detecting your actual location.
  3. Switch VPN Protocols: If the current VPN protocol isn’t working, try switching to another (e.g., OpenVPN, IKEv2) for better performance.
  4. Disable IPv6: Sometimes IPv6 can interfere with VPN connections. Disable it in your device settings.
  5. Update VPN App: Ensure your VPN app is updated to the latest version, as outdated versions may have issues in allowing access to Hotstar.
  6. Disable GPS and Location Services: Disable GPS and location services on your device, as these can reveal your location to Hotstar.
  7. Contact VPN Support: If the issue persists, contact your VPN’s customer support for assistance. They can provide specific solutions for accessing Hotstar in UAE.
  8. Try Using Different Devices: Try accessing Hotstar on different devices to see if the issue is device-specific.

If these Hotstar not working in UAE fixes can’t resolve the error, you have the option to cancel Hotstar subscription in UAE anytime without paying any charges.

Users Facing Difficulties while Accessing Hotstar app on Android TV Box in UAE

Redditors mostly asked queries like after returning from India to UAE, they encounter issues where the Disney+Hotstar app isn’t available on the Android TV box.

This is a common frustration since Disney+ and Hotstar are separate entities in UAE, unlike in India where they are integrated into one app due to regional restrictions. Using a VPN to access Disney+Hotstar in UAE has been tried but unsuccessful.

To effectively overcome this barrier, I recommend watching the Indian Disney+ Hotstar app in UAE with the help of VPN Indian servers like ExpressVPN. By setting up this VPN on your Android TV box, you can simulate an internet connection that appears to be from India, thus allowing you access to the Disney+Hotstar app, just as you would enjoy back in India.

As Indian Disney+Hotstar is not available in UAE, this premium VPN service offers optimized servers specifically designed to get around VPN blocks and streaming restrictions, giving you the desired seamless viewing experience.

Users Facing Difficulties while Accessing Hotstar on Vivo X100pro Screen Cast

Reddit users have noted that while the Vivo X100pro can cast apps like YouTube without issues, attempting to cast to Hotstar only displays a minimized list of videos on the TV.

To resolve this, it is recommended to try casting Hotstar using different smartphone models or to restart the TV. Updating the Hotstar app might also address the problem if it’s caused by an outdated version.

Additionally, using a device such as Google Chromecast can facilitate the casting process. By connecting your smartphone and the Chromecast to the same Wi-Fi network and using the Google Home app to select and mirror your screen, you can enhance your viewing experience.

Alternatively, you can cast Hotstar from your PC to your TV using Google Chrome. Simply open Hotstar on Chrome, access the menu to select ‘Cast’, and then connect to your Smart TV from the list of devices.

Facing Server Error while Accessing Hotstar on Laptop

I was having trouble opening the Hotstar app and received the error message, ‘An error occurred while processing your request Reference #219.b6f5d217.1711874.b31ae20’.

The error message, ‘An error occurred while processing your request’ on Hotstar can be caused by several factors. Here are some steps I used to resolve it:

  • Checked my internet connection and restarted my Wi-Fi router.
  • Completely closed the Hotstar app and relaunched it. This can sometimes resolve temporary glitches.
  • Cleared cache and cookies. Corrupted data in the browser can sometimes cause issues with websites.
  • Restarted the VPN app to ensure the issue was not caused by it.

These steps resolved the issue for me, but if you still face the same problem, you can try reinstalling the app, checking for any new updates, or contacting customer support.

Buffering or Lagging on Desktop

Check these steps if you are facing issues of buffering and lagging on Desktop:

  1. Open your desktop browser
  2. Click ‘More’ on the top right
  3. Click ‘More Tools’ > ‘Clear browsing data’
  4. At the top, select the time range for which you would like to clear your data. To clear all your browsing data, select ‘All time’
  5. Check the boxes for ‘Cookies and other site data’ and ‘Cached images and files’
  6. Click ‘Clear data’


Community Discussion on Accessing Hotstar in UAE with a VPN

In this Reddit conversation, a user asked how to access Disney+ Hotstar in Dubai or where they could watch Modern Family” online for free. Another user suggested using the site watchseries.mx, to which the original poster responded positively, saying they would check it out.

Another commenter pointed out that Modern Family” is available on Disney+ and recommended subscribing. A user also mention using a VPN to access the streaming platform without any geo-blocks. (Source)

In this Reddit conversation about watching Hotstar in UAE, one user mentioned that the Hotstar website works fine in the UAE and isn’t blocked. Another user suggested trying to play a video to verify this. The original poster asked if premium content is accessible, to which another user inquired if they were looking for IPL content.

Some users suggested using a VPN or Smart DNS service, with specific recommendations for VPNs with Indian servers. However, one user reported issues with using a VPN, stating that the app or website would show an error when the VPN was connected. (Source)

In this Reddit conversation, a user asked if a Disney+ subscription purchased in India would work when they return to Dubai. The general consensus among the commenters is that it would not work, as Disney+ in India is bundled with Hotstar and has different rights and content compared to the standalone Disney+ app in other regions, like the UAE.

Some users suggested using torrents as an alternative, while others mentioned the potential for workarounds using services like Getflix or VPNs, though they noted that even with a VPN, it might not work due to differences in the apps and regional restrictions. There was also a discussion about the frustration with the limited availability of content in the Middle East and the legality of using VPNs in UAE. (Source)


Reviews of Hotstar Service in UAE

Accessing Hotstar in UAE necessitates using a VPN, but those who have navigated this requirement generally enjoy a positive viewing experience. Here are two user reviews:

User 1: Impressive Content Selection

Once I configured VPN, accessing Hotstar was a breeze. The platform offers an exceptional range of Indian cinema and television that’s hard to find elsewhere in UAE. The streaming quality is consistently excellent, allowing me to enjoy live cricket matches seamlessly. It’s a fantastic service for anyone missing entertainment from home! (Source)

User 2: Reliable and Worth the Effort

Initially, using a VPN to access Hotstar seemed daunting, but it has proven worthwhile. The selection of dramas, movies, and sporting events is unparalleled. VPN simplified the setup, and I have faced very few issues with lag or buffering. For quality Indian programming abroad, this is my preferred choice. (Source)


FAQs – Disney Plus Hotstar in UAE

To access Hotstar in UAE you need a VPN like ExpressVPN, to change the IP address to an Indian IP that give you access to stream Hotstar Indian content in UAE.

No, Disney+ and Disney+ Hotstar are not the same. Disney+ is a global streaming service from The Walt Disney Company, offering Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content. Hotstar, primarily in India and a few other regions, provides a mix of Disney+ content and local programming, including Indian movies, TV shows, and sports.

Here are the simple steps on how to enjoy Hotstar in UAE:

  1. Select a VPN with high-speed servers in India. I recommend ExpressVPN, which provides fast streaming speeds.
  2. Install the VPN and connect to an Indian server. (My Recommended server: India via Singapore)
  3. Navigate to the Hotstar website or launch the app.
  4. Create an account or log in if you already have one. You may need to use an Indian payment method for premium content.

You can watch limited free content available on the Hotstar platform in UAE. However, a paid subscription is required for the full range of programming, including premium content. Use ExpressVPN to access the Indian version of Hotstar for free content options.

If you try to stream Indian Hotstar in UAE, you won’t be able to access it. You might get an error code or be redirected to a version of Hotstar that’s available in your area. Luckily, you can stream it by using a VPN like ExpressVPN to connect to a server in India.

No, you can’t. For viewers considering how to watch Hotstar in UAE without a VPN, it’s important to note that due to geo-blocks, a VPN is generally required to access the complete library available on Disney+ Hotstar. I recommend using ExpressVPN.

Using a VPN to access geo-restricted content like Hotstar in UAE is generally against the terms of service of streaming platforms. Although using a VPN is not illegal; one should be aware of the terms and conditions of the streaming platform.

ExpressVPN is renowned for its lightning-fast speeds and reliable connections, making it the top choice for streaming Hotstar in UAE without buffering. With servers optimized for streaming and strong security features, ExpressVPN ensures you can enjoy your favorite shows seamlessly.


Wrapping Up!

I’ve explored various VPN services and discovered that while each has its strengths, ExpressVPN stands out for its reliable access to Disney+ Hotstar in UAE. Its fast streaming speeds and strong security features ensure a seamless and secure experience.

Download the VPN app and connect to an Indian server to watch Hotstar in UAE. With this VPN, I can confidently say that my streaming adventures on Hotstar are uninterrupted and enjoyable.

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