PBS is a broadcasting service only available in the US. To watch PBS in UAE, you need a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN. By changing your location to the USA, you can enjoy titles like Secrets of the Six Wives, Unforgotten, or Sanditon.
As of 2024, PBS reaches over 36 million users monthly through linear primetime television, and its digital platforms attract more than 15 million users each month. A VPN helps you access the service in UAE by virtually changing your location.
- VPN Requirement: PBS is geo-restricted to the USA, and to access it from outside the country, a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN is necessary. This VPN allows users to virtually change their location to the USA, enabling them to stream PBS content without regional blocks.
- Top VPNs for PBS: The blog highlights ExpressVPN as the best option due to its extensive US server network, fast speeds, and strong security features. NordVPN and Surfshark are also recommended, offering fast and budget-friendly alternatives.
- Limitations of Free VPNs: The blog advises against using free VPNs for streaming PBS due to their inability to bypass geo-blocks consistently, limited bandwidth, and potential privacy risks, recommending premium services instead.
- Smart DNS as an Alternative: Besides VPNs, Smart DNS is suggested as another method to access PBS outside the USA. While it maintains streaming speeds by rerouting only location-revealing data, it lacks the security features provided by VPNs.
How To Watch PBS in UAE? [5 Easy Steps]
Follow these 5 simple steps to watch PBS in UAE:
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN service (ExpressVPN is my top choice).
- Download its app on your device.
- Launch the VPN app and log in using your username and password.
- Connect to a US server (ExpressVPN’s Chicago server is super fast).
- Visit the PBS website and stream your favorite content in UAE.
Why Do You Need A VPN To Watch PBS in UAE?
The Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) is an American public broadcasting service offering multiple popular TV programs including Victoria, Guilt, and Downton Abbey, that you can stream anytime you like.
However, PBS is geo-restricted and only available inside the US. Trying to access PBS or PBS Kids in UAE would result in an error message saying:
“We’re sorry, but this video is not available in your region due to rights restrictions.”

PBS is a geo-limited streaming service.
I tested 40+ VPNs on multiple factors. Out of them, ExpressVPN remained my top recommendation to watch PBS in UAE due to its 23+ US servers, robust security features, and amazing speeds.
In the next section, I have shared a quick overview of what is the best VPN for streaming PBS in UAE.
3 Best VPNs To Watch PBS in UAE [Updated 2024]
Here is a brief overview of the best VPN to watch PBS in UAE:
Now let’s see the detailed analysis of these VPNs.
The Best VPNs To Watch PBS in UAE [In-Depth Analysis]
I tested 40+ VPN services for unblocking capabilities, US servers, speeds, and compatibility. Out of these, these 3 VPNs are the best ones for streaming PBS in UAE
How To Test A VPN For PBS in UAE?
- Choose a USA Server: Connect to a server located in the United States using your VPN, as PBS content is geo-restricted to the US. Ensure the server is optimized for streaming.
- Clear Cache and Cookies: Before accessing PBS, clear your browser’s cache and cookies to avoid any location data that may interfere with VPN functionality.
- Access the PBS Website or App: Visit the PBS website or use the PBS app to try streaming content. Look for any error messages that indicate regional restrictions.
- Test Multiple Servers: If the content is still blocked, try connecting to different US servers provided by your VPN, as some may be better optimized for bypassing geo-blocks.
- Check Streaming Quality: Monitor the streaming quality and speed. A reliable VPN should offer smooth playback without buffering, ensuring a good viewing experience.
Can I Use A Free VPN To Watch PBS in UAE?
Yes, you can use a free VPN for streaming PBS in UAE. However, there is no guarantee it would work due to various reasons.
First, most free VPNs cannot overcome geo-blocks and fail to unblock sites. Let’s say you find a free VPN in UAE that works with PBS, but you will not be able to use it. Free VPNs only offer a limited bandwidth as low as 500 MB per month, which is very low for streaming.
Along with that, these free services offer a limited number of servers that are crowded with users, thus delivering extremely slow speeds. With a free VPN, you will experience constant buffering and lags.
Similarly, a study revealed that almost 40% of the free VPNs were found to leak data, thus violating users’ right to privacy. Most free VPNs also make money by using ads, so be prepared to see intrusive ads and popups every 30 seconds or more if you are lucky.
These are some of the few reasons why you should just stick to premium, paid VPN services. Most VPNs like ExpressVPN offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can use it free of cost for 30 days to watch PBS in UAE and cancel anytime.
In the next heading, I have shared what are the alternative methods for watching PBS in UAE.
Can I Watch PBS in UAE Without A VPN?
Watching PBS in UAE without a VPN is generally challenging due to geographical restrictions placed on its content.
Using Smart DNS is another method to access geo-restricted content, such as PBS in UAE. Unlike a VPN, which reroutes your entire internet connection through a server in another country, Smart DNS only reroutes specific parts of your internet traffic that reveal your location, such as DNS queries.
This allows you to access geo-blocked content while maintaining your original internet speed, making it ideal for streaming. With Smart DNS, you can access PBS’s content without the noticeable lag that sometimes comes with VPN usage, as it does not encrypt your data or change your IP address.
However, Smart DNS does have limitations. Since it does not provide encryption or change your IP address, it doesn’t offer the privacy and security benefits that a VPN does.
Additionally, some streaming services have started blocking Smart DNS services, making it less reliable over time. While it’s a good option for accessing content like PBS, especially if you’re concerned about maintaining high streaming speeds, it lacks the comprehensive security features that come with a VPN.
How to Create a PBS Account in UAE?
- Get ExpressVPN and connect to its US server.
Link to the USA server on the VPN app.
- Visit the PBS website and click on Sign in.
Visit the official PBS website.
- Choose your preferred sign-in method.
Choose your preferred sign in method.
- Then, verify your account, and you’re good to go!
On What Devices Can I Watch PBS in UAE?
You can stream PBS in UAE on the following devices:
Android (phones, laptops, tablets, TV) | iOS (iPhone and iPad) |
Apple TV (3rd gen and 4th gen) | Windows |
Amazon Fire TV Stick | Mac |
Samsung TV | Roku |
How to Watch PBS in UAE on Different Devices?
You can enjoy PBS’s content titles on a variety of devices. Here are the setup guides to watch PBS in UAE on Android and iOS:
How to Watch PBS in UAE on Android?
Follow these simple steps on how to watch PBS in UAE on Android:
- Subscribe to ExpressVPN and install its app from the Google Play Store.
- Log in and connect to a US server.
- Go to the Google Play Store again and search for PBS.
- Install the PBS app from there.
- Create an account and watch PBS on Android easily.
How to Watch PBS in UAE on iOS?
To watch PBS in UAE on iOS, follow these simple steps:
- Subscribe to ExpressVPN, download its app on your device, and log in with your credentials.
- Connect to a US server.
- Change your App Store region to the US using this link.
- Go to the App Store and search for PBS.
- Install the PBS app on your iOS device.
- Open the app, log in, and enjoy.
How to Watch PBS in UAE on Roku?
By following these simple steps, you can watch PBS in UAE on Roku:
- Sign up for a quality VPN like ExpressVPN.
- Configure the VPN app on your router.
- Connect to the USA server on the VPN app.
- Link the router to your Roku device.
- Search for the PBS app on the Channel Store on Roku.
- Click Add to Channel.
- Launch the PBS app on your Roku screen.
- Sign in and enjoy streaming.
What Can I Watch On PBS in UAE?
Here are some of the most popular shows and movies that you can watch on PBS in UAE with a VPN:
The Great British Baking Show | Frontline |
National Memorial Day Concert 2024 | World on Fire |
Victoria | Sanditon |
Finding your Roots | Downton Abbey |
Moonflower Murders – Season 1: A Gripping Premieres on PBS!
Dive into a dark, twisty murder mystery where a retired detective is pulled back into a web of secrets and lies. With captivating characters and intricate plots, Moonflower Murders on PBS delivers suspense at every turn. Don’t miss this must-watch crime drama!
What is PBS Kids?
PBS Kids is a children’s network offering TV programs, games, and fun activities for kids. Some of the shows it offers include the following:
The Cat in the Hat | Hope in the Water Season 1 |
Pompeii: The New Dig Latest Season | Roots of Comedy With Jesus Trejo |
Elinor Wonders Why | Disco: Sound of a Revolution |
Molly of Denali | Sesame Street |
What Do Users Say About The Quality Of PBS Content Abroad?
In the Reddit conversation, a user tries to watch PBS content in UAE using Surfshark VPN but finds it doesn’t work, despite the VPN functioning correctly with other services like Amazon Prime and Netflix.
Another user shares their experience, suggesting that using the Opera browser with its built-in VPN, in combination with Surfshark, might resolve the issue. The original poster confirms that they couldn’t access PBS directly but found some PBS content available on platforms like Amazon Prime, offering an alternative solution.
This highlights the difficulty some users face when trying to bypass regional restrictions on PBS using a VPN, with mixed results depending on the tools and methods employed.
In the Reddit conversation, a user expressed frustration about being unable to access PBS content through the PBS app without a cable subscription. Several users recommended subscribing to PBS Passport, which typically requires a donation of around $5 per month or $60 per year, as this grants access to the premium content, including popular shows like those from the Masterpiece” series.
Some users mentioned that the process of getting Passport access could be tricky, sometimes requiring contacting the local PBS station or dealing with login issues, but once resolved, it offers extensive access to PBS’s premium content without needing a cable subscription.
Additionally, others suggested alternatives like using an over-the-air (OTA) antenna to access live PBS broadcasts for free or using services like Amazon Prime to watch PBS content. The consensus was that PBS Passport is the best solution for unlocking the full range of PBS content without a cable company, with the added benefit that the donation is often tax-deductible.
Check Additional VPN Guides On VPNranks!
- Watch FuboTV in UAE: Unlock FuboTV and Stream Anytime, with VPN.
- Watch Vudu in UAE: Unlock Vudu Globally with a VPN, Anytime.
- Watch Tubi TV in UAE: Unlock Tubi with a VPN and enjoy USA Content Anywhere.
- CNBC in UAE: Stream CNBC, unblocking a vast selection of shows and movies.
- Watch American Netflix from Anywhere: Unlock American Netflix Worldwide with a VPN.
FAQs – Watch PBS in UAE
Can I watch PBS on my computer in UAE?
Yes, you can watch PBS on your computer or laptop with a VPN like ExpressVPN. You can also watch PBS online on your laptop on the browser, including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge.
Can I watch PBS on Netflix in UAE?
PBS offers a free online streaming site for viewers, but you cannot watch it on Netflix America. However, some of the most famous PBS shows are available on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
How do I watch PBS on my Smart TV in UAE?
Follow these steps to watch PBS on your Smart TV in UAE:
- Configure a VPN on your router, pick a US server, and connect it to your Smart TV.
- Turn on your TV and click Home Button.
- From the Home Screen, select Apps.
- Click the Magnifying Glass icon and search for PBS > install the app.
- Go to Home Screen and open the app > Now, you will see an activation code.
- Copy the code and go to www.pbs.org/activate and enter your code.
- Select Continue, and now you will be asked to sign in. That’s it. Now you can watch PBS in UAE on your Smart TV.
How can I watch PBS shows online in UAE?
You can now watch PBS shows online in UAE on its official website: www.pbs.org or you can download its app on your device. But keep in mind that you will need a VPN to watch PBS online in UAE. ExpressVPN is my top choice to watch PBS in UAE.
Is PBS no longer free in UAE?
No, users can watch PBS for free on its station sites like pbs.org/video or through the PBS app. You can download its app and watch PBS for free on iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Samsung TV, Apple TV, and more.
Is it legal to use a VPN for PBS in UAE?
Using a VPN to access PBS in UAE is not illegal, but it does violate PBS’s terms of service, which restrict content to specific regions. While legal consequences are unlikely, PBS may block your access if it detects VPN usage. Always review the platform’s terms and conditions to stay informed.
Stream Away!
There you have it. Now you know how to watch your favorite American shows on PBS. All you need to do is get a reliable VPN service and enjoy infamous PBS content titles like Victoria, World on Fire, and Frontline easily. I highly recommend using ExpressVPN to watch PBS in UAE.
This VPN offers 23+ US servers, great unblocking capabilities, robust security, and amazing speeds for users. It has also secured the number one Spot on my best VPN for PBS in UAE review as well.