Is Free Wi-Fi In UAE Really FREE? Here’s Some Fine Print Nobody Told You!

There have been multiple events where we jumped into logging in a free Wi-Fi signal while waiting for your flight or relaxing in your hotel lobby? It is a blessing, especially when your mobile data is about to end or you’ve got emails piling up. But if you’re in the UAE or have just landed, it’s worth slowing down before you connect on the free Wi-Fi. The UAE Cybersecurity Council is urging everyone to stay sharp when using public Wi-Fi. That easy access might be hiding risks you don’t see straight away.

Using Free Wi-Fi? UAE Says That Free Connection Could Cost You More Than You Think

We’re all guilty of logging into Wi-Fi just because it’s free. The problem is, not every network is what it seems. The Council has pointed out that not all networks are what they seem. 

Multiple fake Wi-Fi spots appear trustworthy, which are created by hackers just to trick people. Commonly referred to as “honeypots,” they are set up to capture your information. Once you fall into this trap, hackers can easily track your movements online. From reading your emails to accessing your private credentials. This type of breach is referred to as a Man-in-the-Middle attack. It allows someone to sneak in between your device and the site you’re using, scooping up your data without you noticing a thing.

 And without any alerts or pop-ups, you’d never know your data was being intercepted.

A VPN Isn’t Optional Anymore

The CSC isn’t just warning people to be careful. The CSC says it’s a smart move to keep a VPN ready, especially if you’re using Wi-Fi at spots like airports, hotels or cafés. It works like a private tunnel for your data, mixing it all up before it even leaves your phone or laptop. So if anyone tries to peek, all they’ll get is scrambled nonsense. Whether you’re catching up on emails over a cup of Karak in Dubai or checking your bank app before boarding, a VPN helps keep your personal info out of the wrong hands. The Council has even called VPNs “a smart travel companion.” If you move around often or work remotely from public spaces, it’s one of the easiest ways to stay safe.

Don’t Skip The Fine Print

We’ve all done it. You’re tired, your phone’s almost dead, and you just want internet. So, you click “Agree” without reading the terms. According to the CSC, that’s where trouble starts. 

Those little pop-ups asking you to accept terms before using Wi-Fi might seem harmless, but clicking without reading could land you in trouble. Some networks quietly ask for access to things like your location, browsing history, or even saved card details. The CSC warns that this info might get passed on to advertisers or third-party sites without you realising. Even worse, it could open the door to dodgy ads or scam links. So before you tap “Agree,” take a quick look, you might be saying yes to more than you bargained for.

Simple Things You Can Do to Stay Safe

The CSC didn’t stop at just warnings. They’ve shared a list of small but effective actions to reduce risk online:

• Tighten up your privacy settings. Stop apps from tracking data they don’t need.
• Skip social media logins. Use your email instead when signing into apps or websites.
• Delete saved data from your device regularly. This keeps things cleaner and safer.
• Read what you’re agreeing to before signing up for free platforms or Wi-Fi.
• Pay attention to app permissions. If something asks for too much, don’t install it.

Also Read: 8 Best Cafés In Dubai To Work Out Of With Great Coffee & Free Wi-Fi

Stay One Step Ahead

Digital ease has always been part of the UAE’s vision, but so is digital safety. With free Wi-Fi available almost everywhere, it’s easy to forget the risks behind open networks. But your personal data matters. 

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Diy13 from Getty Images