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What is the Best VPN for Saudi Arabia in 2024

Saudi Arabia (KSA) greatly restricts the internet freedom of its citizens and visitors. In this article, I share with you the top 7 VPNs to use while in Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi Arabian government places strict filtering on internet content, especially on content related to religion, the royal family, and politics. Freedom House gives Saudi Arabia’s internet freedom a blunt and unequivocal rating of “not free.”

Regulators in the country also control social media content, restrict Voice Over IP, block torrenting, and monitor internet activity as much as possible. In addition, while the Netflix streaming service is available in the country, the content selection is heavily censored.

How Can a VPN Help in Saudi Arabia?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection, hiding your online activities from the Saudi government and its censors.

In this article, I share with you the top seven VPNs to use while in Saudi Arabia.

How to Use a VPN in Saudi Arabia

Each of the seven providers listed in this article work well for unblocking censored and blocked content while inside Saudi Arabia.

While the use of a VPN inside Saudi Arabia is legal, the government does frown upon the use of VPNs and blocks access to many popular VPN providers’ websites. Be sure to download the software for your preferred VPN before entering the country.

Users who wish to keep their online activities unencumbered with restrictions and monitoring by Saudi officials can take advantage of the protection a VPN offers by following these steps:

  1. Subscribe to a VPN provider.
  2. Download and install your VPN of choice’s app(s) to your device(s). (As mentioned previously, if you’re planning on traveling to Saudi Arabia, do this BEFORE entering their borders.)
  3. Log into the VPN provider’s server network.
  4. Connect to a VPN server located anywhere outside of Saudi Arabian borders.
  5. Enjoy your newfound internet freedom.

WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?

You can easily get a no-risk 30-day money-back trial of NordVPN by signing up on this page. You’ll have full access to all of the features offered by the best VPN for Saudi Arabia for 30 days. NordVPN is the best option for anyone visiting or living in Saudi Arabia that wants to keep their online activities incognito.

You don’t have to worry about any silly gotchas when you take advantage of this offer. All you need to do is contact NordVPN support before the 30-day free trial period is up for a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

Best VPNs for Saudi Arabia

I ran numerous VPN providers through rounds of testing and I found that these seven VPNs will offer the best protection for you while inside Saudi Arabian borders. Here’s a short summary.

Best VPNs for Saudi Arabia:

  1. NordVPN: #1 choice for best VPN for Saudi Arabia. Connection obfuscation, Double VPN protections, fast connections that won’t let you down, and kill switch protection, all at a reasonable price, add up to the top option for Saudi Arabian VPN protection. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN for Saudi Arabia. This fast-growing, bargain-priced VPN provider offers comprehensive online security and privacy. The provider offers unlimited simultaneous connections and a MultiHop server mode that offers double protection for your online antics.
  3. ExpressVPN: Excellent premium VPN for Saudi Arabia. This somewhat expensive provider offers comprehensive encryption and privacy protections, fast and reliable connections, kill switch protection, and wide global server coverage.
  4. CyberGhost: Good VPN option for rookie users. This provider is a good option for Saudis with little to no experience with VPNs. CyberGhost’s easy-to-use apps provide one-click access to comprehensive protection. CyberGhost has servers in Saudi Arabia.
  5. Private Internet Access: Reliable VPN for Saudi Arabia. This VPN provider works well in Saudi Arabia, providing protected access to geo-blocked content around the world.
  6. PrivateVPN: Provides stealthy VPN protection. This VPN provider has the smallest global server network on this list. However, the provider’s “Stealth VPN” feature makes it an attractive choice for Saudi users.
  7. Atlas VPN: Comprehensive VPN protection for Saudis. This provider also sports a global server network that could use some work. However, the provider offers reliable protected access to content in other regions.

Important note: For definitions of security features, such as IPv6 protection or connection obfuscation, reference the “Glossary of VPN Security Terms” toward the bottom of the article.

I evaluated and ranked the top VPNs for use inside Saudi Arabia using the following criteria:

  • No logging of any kind
  • Reliability of connections
  • High level of encryption
  • Automatic kill switch protection
  • Comprehensive global server coverage
  • Bonus points for Saudi servers
  • Top-notch multi-platform support

For more information about the criteria I used, check out the testing methodology section found further down this article.

Best VPNs for Saudi Arabia – Summary table

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Saudi Arabia.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkExpressVPNCyberGhostPrivate Internet AccessPrivateVPNAtlasVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comExpressVPN.comCyberGhost.comPrivate Internet Access.comPrivateVPN.comAtlas VPN.com
Ranking for Saudi Arabia1234567
Streaming servicesNetflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, YouTube TVNetflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, YouTube TVNetflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, YouTube TVNetflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, HuluNetflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, HuluNetflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayerNetflix, Amazon Prime
Avg Speed (Mbps)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps73 Mbps39 Mbps100+ Mbps
Devices SupportedWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, Linux (command line), iOS, Android, Smart TVs RoutersWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TV's, RoutersWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, RoutersWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV
Total number of servers5,5953,2003,0009,073146200+750+
Popular Sites Unblocked95%88%86%85%70%85%93%
Best deal (per month)$3.39
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Here is my list of the top seven VPNs for use in Saudi Arabia.

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Mar 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN delivers the most comprehensive protection for your online activities while residing in or visiting Saudi Arabia, and does so at a reasonable price.

This Panama-based VPN offers full privacy protection for your online travels, as it keeps no records of its users’ online travels. You can combine cryptocurrency payment options with a disposable email address to protect your payment privacy.

NordVPN’s connections are fast and provide a high level of reliability. The provider’s government-grade 256-bit AES encryption protects your activities from prying eyes, and their connection obfuscation and kill-switch protections ensure your connection will not be laid bare.

NordVPN’s “Double VPN” protection offers an extra level of protection. It routes your connection through two VPN servers, further anonymizing user activity.

The provider also offers other protective services, including malware protection, tracker and ad blocking, and more. Some of the protections require a subscription to the provider’s “Complete” level of service.

NordVPN has 5,600+ servers well distributed throughout nearly 60 countries, providing excellent access to the rest of the world. The provider owns and operates its servers, keeping third-party workers from getting close to your data.

All NordVPN servers are run 100% from RAM, with no data whatsoever being written to a physical hard drive. This means all data is wiped from NordVPN servers whenever they are rebooted, powered down, or unplugged, and moved to another location.

You should find that NordVPN covers most of your connected devices, as the provider delivers native app support for iOS, macOS (M1/M2 Mac support), Windows, Android, Linux, and Android TV devices. Browser extensions are available for the Edge, Firefox, and Chrome platforms.

Up to six devices can connect simultaneously using a single username, while comprehensive router support allows more devices to connect at once when needed.

Your support needs are well met here, thanks to the provider’s 24/7 live chat, email support, trouble ticket tracking system, and searchable support library.

Pros:

  • Top-notch privacy protection
  • Allows up to six concurrent connections
  • Obfuscated servers and Double VPN protection
  • Reasonable pricing
  • Blazingly fast connection speeds

Cons:

  • Streaming servers are not labeled

BEST VPN FOR SAUDI ARABIA:NordVPN is the best VPN option for Saudi-based users. Fast connections, a strict no-logs policy and Double VPN and connection obfuscation protection are just a few of the features that provide comprehensive user protection from inside Saudi borders. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark offers reliable access to the rest of the world and keeps no logs of any kind while offering bargain pricing for its extended subscription options.

While you’re online, you’ll be well-protected, thanks to the provider’s military-level 256-bit AES encryption, as well as a kill switch and DNS leak protection. An optional MultiHop server mode that routes your internet connection through two VPN servers rounds out the provider’s complete protection package.

All Surfshark servers are run with no user logs recording your online antics. Plus, the provider recently joined the growing ranks of VPNs that run their servers 100% from RAM, writing no data to a physical hard drive or SSD. When a Surfshark server is shutdown or rebooted all data is completely wiped. The server also says that it “occasionally” wipes the servers.

Also available are ad-blocking, tracker, malware, and phishing protection. For an extra buck fifty, you can score data breach alerts, antivirus protection, and private search.

The provider currently boasts a server network of 3,200+ servers located in 100+ countries, making it the best global coverage that I’ve seen. The provider offers access to 30+ Netflix libraries around the world.

Surfshark offers easy-to-use apps for Amazon Fire TV, iOS, Android, Android TV, Linux, Windows, and macOS (with native Apple Silicon support) devices. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are also available. You can also use the provider with numerous router makes and models.

Surfshark offers an unlimited simultaneous connections allowance.

Customer support is an always available proposition, thanks to 24/7 chat, a contact form, and support knowledge base.

Pros:

  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Provides reliable access to countries outside of Saudi Arabia
  • MultiHop security protection
  • Low, low pricing

Cons:

  • The occasional slow server connection

PERFECT FOR BUDGET-MINDED USERS:Surfshark provides online protection and access to the world outside of Saudi Arabia for large groups of users at a bargain price. The provider offers comprehensive online security and privacy, as well as fast connection speeds. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN is a somewhat expensive, but reliable all-around option for protecting your internet activities while inside Saudi Arabia.

The British Virgin Islands-based VPN provider keeps no logs of any kind related to their users’ internet voyages. This offers assurance that no one can successfully request evidence of any of your activities.

Users can combine the provider’s Bitcoin anonymous payment option with a throw-away email address to keep their payment information totally incognito.

ExpressVPN offers reliable, speedy connections that are protected by military-grade 256-bit AES encryption. Automatic kill switch protection is ready, so your online antics are never subject to being monitored in the unlikely case you lose connection to the provider’s servers.

IPv6 leak protection ensures no IP address information leaks outside your encrypted connection. DNS leak protection forces your device to use the VPN’s DNS servers when connected to their network.

A global server network of 3,000+ VPN servers spread across 94+ countries provides an optimal opportunity to access blocked content, no matter where it might be located. All of these servers are run using the provider’s proprietary TrustedServer technology, which runs all server operations 100% from RAM. This means no data is ever written to a physical hard drive, so all data is completely wiped when the servers are rebooted.

Native apps are available for Linux, macOS (native M1/M2 support), Windows, Amazon Fire, iOS, Chromebook, Android, and Android TV devices. Browser extensions provide protection for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browsing sessions.

ExpressVPN allows up to five devices at a time to be simultaneously connected to their servers using a single login. If you need more, you can use the provider’s extensive router protection (which was recently updated).

ExpressVPN’s 24/7 customer support options include an always-available live support chat option, email support, a support ticket tracking system, and a support knowledge base.

Pros:

  • Total no-logs policy and Bitcoin payment protection
  • Reliable access to content around the globe
  • Connection encryption, kill switch, and DNS leak protection
  • Top-notch multi-platform app support

Cons:

  • High-priced single month subscription
  • Streaming servers are not labeled

RELIABLE VPN PROTECTION FOR KSA:ExpressVPN is a reliable if expensive VPN option to protect your Saudi Arabian internet travels. Fast and reliable is the best way to describe this provider’s well-encrypted, kill switch-protected connections. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  www.CyberGhost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

Saudi users that are in search of comprehensive VPN protection, but have little to no experience using them, will appreciate CyberGhost.

The provider has more than 9,000 servers stationed in 90+ countries in its global server network. Users who just need online protection or who are looking to connect to content located inside of Saudi Arabia while abroad can use one of the provider’s Saudi Arabian servers.

The provider may offer easy-to-use apps, but it doesn’t sacrifice any protection for that ease of use. Government-grade 256-bit AES encryption, along with IP/DNS leak prevention, and a kill switch (on select platforms) keeps your online antics under wraps. The provider also offers blocking of malicious websites, ads, and online trackers.

The provider’s total no-logs policy means no records are to be found of your online activities while connected to CyberGhost. Its acceptance of Bitcoin as payment keeps your payment info private, as long as you use a disposable email address.

CyberGhost’s connection speeds are some of the best I’ve ever seen, making it an excellent solution for Saudis who stream video, share files, and play online games. (All the things that make life worth living.)

The provider’s easy-to-use native app support includes options for iOS, macOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Amazon Fire device platforms. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available, as is router support.

CyberGhost also offers other useful security and privacy services, including a password manager and a feature that alerts you if and when your email address is exposed in a website data breach. A Security Suite for Windows provides anti-malware and antivirus protection. Users can also control how much access Microsoft will have to their Windows data.

The provider allows users to simultaneously connect up to seven of their devices to its servers.

Customer support is always there for you, thanks to live chat, a searchable support library, and a support ticket tracking system.

Pros:

  • Impressive global server coverage
  • Servers located in Saudi Arabia
  • Easy-to-use yet powerful apps
  • Blazingly fast connection speeds

Cons:

  • Apps lack some advanced options
  • No apps for routers

BEST FOR VPN FOR SAUDI FIRST-TIMERS:CyberGhost provides reliable online security and privacy via its easy-to-use apps, so even rookie VPN users can efficiently prevent third parties from monitoring their online activities. CyberGhost comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

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5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  www.privateinternetaccess.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Private Internet Access (PIA) provides excellent online security, privacy, and content access for Saudi users.

PIA’s global server network is extensive (3,300+ servers stationed in more than 80 countries, including some located in Saudi Arabia). This allows users to access geo-controlled content from Saudi Arabia, as well as the rest of the world.

The government-grade 256-bit AES encrypted connections offer comprehensive online security, as does IP/DNS leak prevention, and a kill switch. Blocking of ads, trackers, malware, and malicious websites are also available.

A strict no-logs policy keeps your online activities secret, while the provider’s acceptance of cryptocurrency as payment helps to keep your payment information private (you may use a throwaway email address for extra anonymity).

While PIA’s connection speeds are far from being the fastest on this list, it provides more than enough bandwidth for popular online activities, including streaming, gaming, and more. No data caps or bandwidth limitations spoil the fun with this provider.

Native app support from this VPN service includes offerings for Android, Android TV, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux devices. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are available to protect your browsing. The provider also offers compatibility with multiple router makes and models.

Up to 10 devices can concurrently connect to PIA servers on a single set of login credentials.

PIA’s support offerings include live chat, a trouble ticket form, and a searchable support library.

Pros:

  • Apps for most popular devices
  • Saudi servers
  • Comprehensive online security and privacy

Cons:

  • No labeled streaming-optimized servers
  • Has issues working in restrictive countries

COMPREHENSIVE VPN PROTECTIONS FOR SAUDI USERS:Private Internet Access provides well-encrypted access to geo-controlled content, keeping your activities undercover. The provider’s Saudi Arabian servers provide access to Saudi-only content when traveling or living abroad. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

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6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN may only boast what can charitably be called a “small” global server network, its “Stealth VPN” feature hides your connection to those servers.

The provider’s global server count of 200+ servers spread out among 60+ countries is admittedly lacking. However, all of these servers provide reliable access to geo-blocked content. Just check with the provider before subscribing to make sure they have servers in the targeted areas.

The provider uses government-level 256-bit AES encryption to prevent third parties from monitoring your online activities, along with a kill switch option, and IPv6 and DNS leak protection. The provider’s “Stealth VPN” protection helps keep your VPN usage hidden by disguising it as the usual browser traffic.

All PrivateVPN servers are run without logs, while a Bitcoin subscription payment option keeps your payment info private (when used with a disposable email address).

This provider’s fast connection speeds can easily handle high-definition video, fast online games, and large file sharing.

While native app support is limited to the big four device platforms (Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows) and it offers no browser extensions, the provider does offer compatibility with multiple router makes and models.

Users can simultaneously connect up to 10 of their devices to the PrivateVPN servers.

PrivateVPN customer support includes an email support feature, an FAQ library, and live chat. The chat balloon will be green when someone is manning live chat.

Pros:

  • Provides reliable access to 60 countries
  • Stealth VPN disguises VPN usage
  • Up to 10 concurrent connections

Cons:

  • Server numbers definitely lacking
  • App support only for the big four device platforms

IMPRESSIVE ONLINE PROTECTION:PrivateVPN offers reliable and well-hidden access to the world from inside of Saudi Arabia, thanks to its “Stealth VPN” obfuscation feature hiding your VPN activity from detection. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

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7. Atlas VPN

AtlasVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • FireTV

Website:  https://atlasvpn.com/

Money-back guarantee: 30 days

Atlas VPN protects your online activities from inside Saudi Arabia, as well as the rest of the globe.

This provider’s global server network measures in on the lighter end of the scales, with 750+ servers in over 40 countries. That said, the provider delivers reliable and fast connections to online content in those countries.

All Atlas VPN connections are well-protected, thanks to its government-grade 256-bit AES encryption, kill switch, and other protective measures. The provider’s proprietary Safebrowse and Safebrowse Plus features protect you from online perils, while also blocking ads.

No logs to be found on Atlas VPN servers, meaning there are no worries of evidence of your online antics turning up. Unfortunately, those who prefer paying using cryptocurrency will need to go elsewhere.

Atlas VPN’s connection speeds are some of the fastest around and can handle popular online activities. This provider does not inflict data caps or bandwidth limitations on users.

Native app support for the Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV device platforms are present and accounted for. Linux support, browser extensions, and support for routers are not currently available, although all three features are under development.

An unlimited number of devices can connect at once on a single user account.

Live chat is available, but only to subscribers. Email, a contact form, and a support library are available to everyone.

Pros:

  • Fast download speeds
  • Reliable geo-blocked content access
  • Additional protection from Safebrowse and Safebrowse Plus features

Cons:

  • No support for routers, browsers, or Linux
  • Global server coverage could stand a bump

EXCELLENT ONLINE PROTECTION:Atlas VPN protects your online activities while in Saudi Arabia. The provider’s server network may be small, but it provides reliable access to geo-controlled content. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Atlas VPN.

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Glossary of VPN Security Terms

Here are some simple explanations for the different security features that VPNs offer.

Auto-reconnect: The auto-reconnect feature automatically reconnects your device to the VPN server if your connection to the VPN server is accidentally interrupted.

Connection obfuscation: This process uses OpenVPN servers that are specially designed to bypass internet restrictions, hiding the fact that you’re using a VPN.

Connection “scrambling”: Similar to connection obfuscation, connection scrambling hides the fact that you’re using a VPN server to connect to the internet.

DNS leak protection: When you enter a website address (for example: www.pixelprivacy.com) in the address bar of your favorite browser, the address is sent to a DNS server, which looks up the numeric IP address for that domain name.

The request is then forwarded to the correct server, and the website loads in your browser window.

If your ISP’s DNS server is handling your VPN connection’s DNS requests instead of your VPN provider’s DNS server, this is considered a “leak” and your online activities are open to monitoring. Learn more about DNS leaks.

IPv6 leak protection: An IP address is a series of numbers that identify your device (and location) to the internet. Because the number of internet-connected devices is rapidly growing, the current address range of IPv4 is running out, resulting in an increasing number of IPv6 addresses.

Because IPv6 addresses are relatively new, there can be compatibility issues, making IPv6 leak protection important. If your VPN doesn’t offer IPv6 leak protection, any requests sent via an IPv6 address could leak outside of your VPN tunnel, possibly exposing your location and activities.

Kill switch protection: If your connection to a VPN server fails, the kill switch automatically disconnects your device from the internet, preventing your online activities from being exposed.

Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is a very restrictive country, and while VPNs are not illegal there, not every VPN service provider is up to offering optimal service in the country. That’s why there are several key factors I had to pay attention to while deciding upon which VPNs to recommend for Saudi Arabia.

These are the most important factors to consider when choosing a VPN for Saudi Arabia and why:

  • Speed: Speed is always a critical factor, whether in Saudi Arabia or any other country. No matter your preferred online activity, fast speeds are essential. Each VPN on my list ranked above average in my most recent connection speed tests.
  • Server network: You don’t need a Saudi Arabia-based VPN server in order to protect your connection in Saudi Arabia, so no worries about that. But a wide server network is important to unblock content in far-flung countries. In addition, look for a high server count, as that will mean better performance because servers won’t be overloaded with users.
  • Value: You don’t want to spend your hard-earned money on a VPN that isn’t worth it. Always check to see that the features and functionality of a VPN justify its price. Every VPN on my list offers excellent value, considering what they offer.
  • Ease of use: It’s important for a VPN service provider to offer apps for a variety of platforms so that you’ll know your preferred device is covered. In addition, simple apps make it easy to quickly connect to your favorite server location. All of the VPNs we recommend for Saudi Arabia offer easy-to-use apps for a multitude of platforms.
  • Security and privacy: Because Saudi Arabia is not exactly a privacy-friendly country, it’s imperative for your VPN provider to offer comprehensive digital security and privacy protections. A VPN should offer, at the very least, banking-level encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection to protect your security. In addition, the VPN should never save logs of your online activities, so there will be no record of what you’ve been doing for anyone, including the Saudi Arabian government, to get their hands on.
  • Streaming: Most VPN users are fans of streaming, so I made sure that each VPN I recommended offers a stellar ability to unblock video streaming content in other countries and give you an enjoyable experience at the same time. Each VPN on my list offers reliable access to streaming services such as Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

My comprehensive research doesn’t end here. The factors above are just a small part of my overall VPN testing methodology. My data-driven approach gives me a better understanding of the VPNs and their services, allowing me to recommend only those that are a good fit for your needs.

Is a Free VPN a Good Option for Use in Saudi Arabia?

I must answer this question with a resounding NO! NO! NO!

“Free” VPNs are a horrible option for any type of online use, but when discussing your online protection in a severely restricted country like Saudi Arabia, a freebie VPN shouldn’t even be part of the conversation.

Any VPN you use while in Saudi Arabia should offer optimal protection for your connection while providing wide-ranging access to content in other countries. A gratis VPN will not offer either.

Many “free” VPNs have a hidden cost: your personal information. Some of these providers will log a user’s online activities and then sell the information to interested third parties, such as advertisers. Do you really think these providers will put up much of a fight if the Saudi government demands those same logs?

Free VPNs are also known to insert unwanted ads and tracking cookies into their users’ browser sessions. While that might not lead to detection by Saudi authorities, it’s still a violation of your privacy.

VPNs that provide their services on the house can also cost you in terms of your precious time and convenience. Some will force you to sit in a queue, where you’ll have to wait until you’re allowed to connect. Once you’re allowed to connect, your server choice will be severely limited (if you have a choice at all).

Other downsides of freebie VPNs are connection throttling, bandwidth limitations and monthly data caps. Does any of this sound good to you?

Why Do You Need a VPN in Saudi Arabia?

The Saudi Arabian government employs strict filtering of internet content. Much of the filtered and blocked content involves religion, politics, and the royal family.

Although popular social media and messaging apps are not blocked, their use has been restricted thanks to connection throttling of apps, such as Telegram. Over the years, Telegram’s users have reported bandwidth limitations, which prevent file and image sharing among users.

If the Saudi Arabian government deems content to be harmful, anti-Islamic, illegal, or offensive, they will block it. They also block online gambling sites, as well as file-sharing sites like Pirate Bay.

Additionally, the Saudi Arabian government will block websites and social media pages belonging to political organizations or human rights organizations.

Members of the public can submit blocking requests via a web-based form. A team of Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) employees review the requests to determine if they are justified. The CITC received 732,504 such requests in the year 2015.

In addition to blocking and filtering content, the government also forces the removal of “offensive” content. For example, the Saudi Arabian government has issued takedown requests to Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.

A VPN can help prevent connection throttling by hiding your online activities with encryption. That same encryption prevents your ISP and government from tracking your online travels and connecting those activities back to you.

A VPN can also provide access to websites and services that may be blocked in your area, thanks to its IP address-“spoofing” abilities. This restores your ability to access gambling and social media sites and allows you to once again share files via P2P file sharing.

CAUTION: Download Your VPN Before Entering Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Arabian government routinely blocks the websites of censorship circumvention tool providers, such as the Tor browser and many major VPN providers.

That’s why I strongly recommend that you decide on a VPN provider and download the provider’s apps on your devices before traveling to Saudi Arabia.

How to Maximize Your Privacy in Saudi Arabia

Once you’re inside Saudi Arabia, do the following whenever you connect to the internet:

  • Fire up your VPN app and make sure you have all of the protective measures enabled.
  • If OpenVPN is an option, use it.
  • Make sure to enable your VPN’s kill switch, auto-reconnect, obfuscation, “Double VPN” and any other security features to keep your internet activities undercover.

You can also maximize your anonymity by

Are VPNs Legal in Saudi Arabia?

While you won’t be arrested for using a VPN inside the country (it’s still legal to use one), you could be arrested for posting materials the government considers offensive or dangerous.

To be on the safe side, make sure that you use a VPN that makes privacy and security top priorities, like the seven providers I listed above so that none of your online activities can be traced back to you.

What Else Can You Use a VPN For?

Besides offering excellent protection for your online activities, a VPN also offers other definite advantages.

A VPN opens access to a world of content, whether the content is being blocked by the country you’re in or by the provider itself (due to geographical or other restrictions). This enables access to streaming, gaming, and other types of content that may normally be blocked in your area.

A VPN also prevents your Internet Service Provider and even your government from throttling your connection speed when you’re accessing non-approved websites and other services since they won’t know what you’re looking at.

The same encryption that keeps the Saudi Arabian government from monitoring your online activities also keeps the bad guys sharing an unprotected public WiFi hotspot with you from monitoring your everyday activities, such as banking, shopping, and paying bills.

Saudi Arabia VPN FAQs

Is it Legal to Video Call in KSA?

As of 2017, it is now legal to use video calling services in Saudi Arabia (KSA). You can now use WhatsApp, Skype, Facetime, and other internet video calling apps in Saudi Arabia with no fear of reprisal. However, if you do not use a VPN, KSA authorities can still monitor your use of Voice over IP apps.

How Do I Sign Up For a VPN in Saudi Arabia?

While VPNs are not illegal in Saudi Arabia, many VPN providers' websites are blocked by the KSA government. That's why I strongly suggest you subscribe to a VPN and install the provider's apps on all of your devices before entering the country.

Can I Use My Smartphone in Saudi Arabia (KSA)?

You can use your smartphone in Saudi Arabia. However, you'll likely need to get a SIM card from a local cellular provider, unless you have enabled international roaming with your current provider. Be aware, if you purchase a SIM inside KSA, you may be required to provide identification and your fingerprints to register the new SIM.

Is It Legal to Watch Netflix in Saudi Arabia (KSA)?

Absolutely. Saudi Arabia even has its own flavor of Netflix. However, your access to content will be limited to whatever Netflix offers inside Saudi borders. If you wish to view content intended for your country, you will need to use a VPN.

Can I Legally Stream Music in Saudi Arabia (KSA)?

Yep. Plenty of streaming services are available in Saudi Arabia, including Apple Music, Spotify, and many others. There is one limitation though, as your available music library will be limited to what’s available inside KSA. Happily, by using a VPN you can gain access to the music libraries available in your home country.

How Can I Blog Anonymously in Saudi Arabia?

I strongly recommend that you use both a VPN and the Tor Browser when blogging in Saudi Arabia. A VPN will hide your real IP address and prevent the Saudi government from monitoring your online activities. Using a Tor Browser will add an additional layer of anonymity to your blogging efforts, thanks to it routing your connection through a collection of anonymous relays.

Which Websites and Services are Blocked in Saudi Arabia?

Any content the Saudi Arabian government deems to be harmful, anti-Islamic, illegal, or offensive, will be blocked. This includes anything to do with gambling, pornography, religion, the Royal Family, politics, and numerous other "sensitive" subjects.

Conclusion

When faced with Saudi content blockades, connection throttling, and other forms of censorship, a VPN is your best bet for preserving your internet freedoms.

A VPN like NordVPN offers the best method of avoiding content roadblocks, protecting your online activities and your personal information from observation and theft, and opening access to a big, wonderful world of online content.

For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the NordVPN website.

Roundup - best VPNs for speed

Position Our Score Verdict
1.
4.5/5
Verdict: Our top rated VPN
Get NordVPN »
2.
4.5/5
Verdict: Best budget option
Get Surfshark »
3.
4.0/5
Verdict: Great privacy options
Get ExpressVPN »
4.
4.0/5
Verdict: Highly versatile
Get CyberGhost »
5.
3.0/5
Verdict: Up to 10 devices
Get PrivateVPN »

PRIVACY ALERT: Websites you visit can see these details about you:

The following information is available to any site you visit:

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

This information can be used to target ads and monitor your internet usage.

By using a VPN you can hide these details and protect your privacy.

I recommend NordVPN - the top provider in my testing. It offers outstanding privacy features and there is currently a discounted rate available through this link.

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