A Saudi Arabia VPN allows you to maintain your online privacy while in the country. Plus, it can help you unblock local or foreign content, improve connection and speed, and bypass censorship.
A virtual private network (VPN) is a valuable tool for both Saudi Arabian citizens and individuals traveling in the country or interested in local content. For locals, it can help bypass censorship, maintain online anonymity, and avoid ISP throttling. Furthermore, it can unblock restricted platforms, such as Hulu and Prime Video, as well as VoIP services like WhatsApp.
On the other hand, if you are traveling outside the country and want to access services available only in Saudi Arabia, the best Saudi Arabia VPN can also be helpful. You can use it even if you are not a citizen, but are interested in unblocking regional content.
Quick overview: The Best VPN for Saudi Arabia
Top-rated VPNs can enhance your online presence in Saudi Arabia. I’ve tested over 20 premium VPNs to present you with the top 5 best VPNs for Saudi Arabia.
-
1.Surfshark: overall best VPN for Saudi Arabia
-
2.NordVPN: fast and secure Saudi Arabia VPN with global server coverage
-
3.Proton VPN: freemium VPN for Saudi Arabia
-
4.IPVanish: Saudi Arabia VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections
-
5.CyberGhost: VPN for Saudi Arabia with reliable performance
Why do you need a VPN in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, a VPN is a vital tool for both residents and visitors. Due to strict regulations and extensive content filtering, many global websites and applications are not available in the country. Furthermore, a VPN can be used to access local content from abroad.
Accessing content not available in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, many residents and tourists utilize VPN services to circumvent government restrictions on popular websites and apps. By connecting to a server in a different country (like the US or the UK), users can mask their local IP address and access restricted content. Here are some examples of what can be unblocked from Saudi Arabia:
- VoIP features. While many apps are available, the government often restricts VoIP features on popular platforms such as WhatsApp or FaceTime to protect local telecom revenues and maintain surveillance.
- Censored content. The Saudi government filters a vast number of websites deemed “harmful” or “anti-Islamic”. This includes international news outlets, LGBTQ+ resources, political blogs, and gambling sites.
- Streaming platforms. Many entertainment platforms, such as Hulu, Disney+, or the US Netflix library, are restricted in Saudi Arabia.
- Privacy and anonymity. Saudi Arabia has excessive ISP monitoring. With a VPN, you can avoid it and maintain your online privacy.
- Gaming. Online gamers often use VPNs to access international gaming servers, reduce lag, and play titles that may be restricted or have limited features within the Middle Eastern region.
Accessing Saudi Arabian content in foreign countries
While people often use a VPN in Saudi Arabia, they can also benefit from it outside the Kingdom to access local content. Whether you are a citizen traveling abroad, a language student, or a business professional, a VPN can help you unblock regional content from foreign countries. Here are some of the examples:
- Premium Arabic entertainment. Regional platforms like Shahid VIP and STC TV host exclusive Saudi-produced series and “Originals” that are often unavailable or restricted in Western libraries.
- Online banking. Traveling citizens can use a VPN to access and manage local accounts, pay bills, or transfer funds without triggering fraud alerts or being blocked.
- Sporting events. In the US and other countries, a large Saudi student and diplomatic population relies on VPNs to access homegrown sports leagues, such as the Saudi Pro League.
Best VPNs for Saudi Arabia – detailed overview
Not every VPN is reliable for Saudi Arabia, so I’ve tested over 20 VPN service providers to create the top 5 list. Below, you can find a detailed overview of the top 5 and why they made the list.
Top 1. Surfshark – overall the best VPN for Saudi Arabia
Rating: 9.0 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Saudi Arabian servers: Yes
Price: $ 2.49/month with 7-day free trial on Android and iOS
Current deal: Get 85% off Surfshark
Surfshark is the best VPN for Saudi Arabia thanks to its virtual servers in the country, military-grade encryption, and affordable price. Plus, it supports multiple simultaneous connections, meaning not only you, but your family as well can protect all the devices.
During my tests, Surfshark demonstrated exceptional performance, especially by bypassing strict restrictions and unblocking various platforms. It successfully unblocked international libraries for Netflix US/UK, Disney+, and Amazon Prime. Thanks to the high-speed servers in Riyadh, I was able to maintain a local Saudi IP address and have smooth access to local platforms like Shahid VIP and MBC from abroad. Furthermore, testing showed minimal speed loss thanks to the WireGuard tunneling protocol.
Surfshark is an exceptionally secure VPN due to its implementation of all necessary security measures, including encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Additionally, it offers specialized stealth technologies, such as NoBorders mode and Camouflage Mode. These features are specifically designed to bypass strict government DPI (Deep Packet Inspection) and unblock restricted VoIP services and global content seamlessly.
Surfshark is also highly affordable, with a starting price of $ 2.49. Additionally, you can test the service with a 7-day free trial or a 30-day money-back guarantee, which is available on all plans.
If you want to learn more about Surfshark, read our detailed Surfshark review.
What I like:
- Servers in Saudi Arabia
- Robust security measures
- Very affordable
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
What I don’t like:
- The slower iOS app
Top 2. NordVPN – Saudi Arabia VPN for enhanced privacy and security
Rating: 9.3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Saudi Arabian servers: No
Price: $ 3.49/month with 3-day free trial on Android
Current deal: Get 75% off NordVPN
NordVPN is a tier-one choice for Saudi Arabia. Although it doesn’t have a server in the country, it provides coverage for many neighboring countries and offers global reach. Also, its proprietary NordLynx protocol enables users to bypass strict government censorship and unblock VoIP apps without compromising speed or security.
While testing the service, I noticed that NordVPN maintains the fastest speeds among competitors, even when connected to distant servers. The proprietary NordLynx protocol is exceptionally efficient at preventing lag and maintaining a stable connection. While NordVPN does not currently host physical servers within Saudi Arabia to avoid local data laws, it offers a massive network of 9300 servers in 137 countries. This global network allows you to unblock foreign content and streaming platforms, such as Netflix or Hulu.
By switching to the OpenVPN protocol, I unlocked Obfuscated Servers, which disguise VPN traffic as regular browsing. This prevents your ISP from identifying that you are using a VPN, making it nearly impossible for them to throttle your connection or block your access to restricted content. To continue, Threat Protection Pro scans for trackers and malware in real-time, providing an extra layer of defense against state-level monitoring.
NordVPN costs only $ 3.49/month. Android users can test the service for free for 3 days, while a 30-day money-back guarantee is included with all subscriptions.
If you want to learn more about NordVPN, read our detailed NordVPN review.
What I like:
- Robust encryption
- Global server coverage
- Great price-to-value ratio
- 10 simultaneous connections
What I don’t like:
- No servers in Saudi Arabia
Top 3. Proton VPN – Saudi Arabia VPN with a free version
Rating: 8.9 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Saudi Arabian servers: Yes
Price: $ 2.99/month with a free version available
Current deal: Get 70% off Proton VPN
Proton VPN is a premium choice for both Saudi Arabian citizens and visitors to the country. Due to its Swiss-based jurisdiction and specialized Stealth protocol, Proton VPN easily bypasses advanced censorship.
Thanks to my testing, I found out that Proton VPN is a powerhouse for both privacy and high-bandwidth activities. It excels at unblocking a wide array of global streaming services, including Netflix (US/UK), Disney+, and Amazon Prime, while ensuring a stable connection for local platforms like Shahid, thanks to secure servers in Riyadh. Proton VPN offers VPN Accelerator technology, which I observed results in speed increases of up to 400% on long-distance connections.
In addition to all the necessary security measures, Proton VPN features a Secure Core (Multi-Hop) option that routes your traffic through multiple servers, starting in a privacy-friendly country like Switzerland or Iceland, before reaching its final destination. It also has a NetShield Ad-blocker, which blocks unwanted ads, malware, and other online threats.
While premium Proton VPN costs $ 2.99, it also has a free tier with servers in 10 countries. It is safe and reliable, and you can use it to unblock some foreign content. Additionally, Proton VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
If you want to learn more about Proton VPN, read our detailed Proton VPN review.
What I like:
- Servers in Saudi Arabia
- Free version
- Transparent security practices
- Reliable speeds
What I don’t like:
- Can’t choose servers in the free version
Top 4. IPVanish – Saudi Arabia VPN for every device
Rating: 8.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Saudi Arabian servers: Yes
Price: $ 2.19/month and 7-day free trial
Current deal: Get 83% off IPVanish
IPVanish is an excellent option for Saudi Arabia because it offers unlimited simultaneous connections and powerful obfuscation technology (Scramble). These features enable users to circumvent strict internet restrictions and unblock a wide range of content.
When I tested IPVanish, I was able to unblock both regional and foreign content. Also, IPVanish proved to be relatively fast, particularly when using the WireGuard protocol. Furthermore, IPVanish maintains servers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This is a significant advantage, as many other providers only offer virtual locations or servers in neighboring countries.
To ensure users remain undetected by Saudi ISPs and government filters, IPVanish includes several advanced tools, such as OpenVPN Scramble, split tunneling, military-grade encryption, a powerful kill switch, and others. They all allow users to maintain their online anonymity in the country.
IPVanish prices start at $ 2.19/month. Plus, it offers a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
If you want to learn more about IPVanish, read our detailed IPVanish review.
What I like:
- Servers in Saudi Arabia
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Powerful security tools
- Affordable price
What I don’t like:
- My struggle to unblock some streaming platforms
Top 5. CyberGhost – a reliable VPN for Saudi Arabia
Rating: 8.8 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Saudi Arabian servers: Yes
Price: $ 1.59/month and 7-day free trial on iOS, 3-day on Android, and 24-hour on Windows and iOS
Current deal: Get 88% off CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable VPN for Saudi Arabia. It offers servers in the country, solid security features, and one of the biggest global server networks to secure its place on the list.
CyberGhost provides unparalleled access to global streaming platforms, including Netflix (US/UK/Japan), Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer, with a 100% success rate during my trials. Furthermore, it offers a vast network across 100 countries. For Saudi Arabian citizens and visitors, I recommend connecting to the server in the country or nearby virtual locations in the UAE, Cyprus, or Egypt, as these offer the best balance of security and performance. Plus, CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers provide extra privacy.
Speaking of security, CyberGhost is specifically designed to remain undetected by network administrators and ISPs. CyberGhost follows a strict no-logs policy, utilizes modern encryption protocols, and is designed for stable performance, regardless of your location. I also appreciate that it offers dedicated servers for streaming, gaming, or torrenting, which makes my experience with this provider extremely satisfying.
CyberGhost subscription price starts at $ 1.59. It also offers a free trial for every device and a 45-day money-back guarantee.
If you want to learn more about CyberGhost, read our detailed CyberGhost review.
What I like:
- Enormous server network
- Easily unblocks restricted sites
- High security
- Great speeds and performance
What I don’t like:
- Fewer features and Apple apps
Best VPNs for Saudi Arabia compared
| VPN for Saudi Arabia | VPN rating | Price | Free trial | Saudi Arabian servers | Obfuscated servers | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Surfshark | 9.0 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | $ 2.49 | ✅ Yes, 7-days | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Very fast |
| 2. NordVPN | 9.3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | $ 3.49 | ✅ Yes, 3-days | ✅ Yes (has servers near Saudi Arabia) | ✅ Yes | Very fast |
| 3. Proton VPN | 8.9 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | $ 2.99 | ✅ Yes, free version available | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Fast |
| 4. IPVanish | 8.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | $ 2.19 | ✅ Yes, 7-days | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Fast |
| 5. CyberGhost | 8.8 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | $ 1.59 | ✅ Yes, 24 hours (macOS, Windows), 3 days (Android), 7 days (iOS) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Fast |
Is VPN legal in Saudi Arabia?
Using a VPN in Saudi Arabia is technically legal, particularly for personal privacy or business purposes. However, they shouldn’t be used to commit or conceal illegal acts. To be more specific, individuals in Saudi Arabia are required to comply with the Anti-Cybercrime Law. It prohibits the use of VPNs to access unlawful content, such as gambling, adult sites, and platforms that incite political dissent. By doing so, you may face a serious offense. Additionally, some actions, such as bypassing VoIP blocks (e.g., using WhatsApp for calling), remain a regulatory gray area. It is always better to ensure that your activity is lawful and to stay informed on local regulations.
How to use a VPN in Saudi Arabia
If you want to use a VPN in Saudi Arabia but don’t know where to start, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Just follow these few simple steps:
1. Start by choosing a reliable and secure Saudi Arabia VPN. My recommendation is Surfshark, as it has servers in the country and offers substantial worldwide coverage.
2. Purchase a preferred plan and create a new account if you don’t have one.
3. Download and install the VPN on your device and log in.
4. Connect to a server in Saudi Arabia or any other country.
5. Browse the internet securely and privately!
Important:
If you are traveling to Saudi Arabia, it is better to download and set up your VPN connection before entering the country.
How I tested each VPN for Saudi Arabia
To find the best VPNs for Saudi Arabia, I tested over 20 reputable VPN service providers. Below, I will present the main criteria that each VPN had to meet in order to be rated.
Main criteria of the best VPN for Saudi Arabia:
- Server network and servers in Saudi Arabia (25%). I compared each VPN’s server network, taking into account the availability of servers in Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries.
- Privacy and security (25%). I looked for advanced security features, such as military-grade encryption, obfuscated servers, a no-logs policy, split-tunneling, and a powerful kill switch. Then, I tested how well they work while connected to Saudi Arabia servers for bypassing censorship, blocked content, and preventing data and IP leaks.
- Speed (20%). I measured each VPN’s speeds while using servers in Saudi Arabia, neighboring countries, and distant countries, such as the US. I chose VPNs with minimal speed fluctuations and a fast, reliable connection.
- Supported devices (15%). I prioritized VPNs with broad device compatibility. I ensured that all VPNs had dedicated apps for popular devices, including phones, computers, routers, and gaming consoles. Additionally, I ensured that recommended VPNs support multiple simultaneous connections.
- Price (15%). Affordability was one of the key requirements for the best VPN in Saudi Arabia. I made sure that all VPNs on my list would have a reasonable price-to-value ratio.
Conclusion
Whether you are a Saudi Arabian citizen, traveling in the country, or want to access Saudi Arabia’s content from other countries, you will greatly benefit from getting a reliable Saudi Arabia VPN. It encrypts your internet traffic, allowing you to remain private and secure online, unblocks locally restricted content or platforms from other countries, and can help avoid ISP throttling.
After numerous tests, I concluded that Surfshark is the best VPN for Saudi Arabia. Thanks to its server in the country and global coverage, fast speeds, affordability, and unlimited simultaneous connections, it outperforms any other VPN service provider. With Surfshark, you can retain your online anonymity in Saudi Arabia and bypass censorship and regional restrictions.
Related articles:
How to bypass Facebook restrictions abroad
How to get around censorship in the UAE
FAQs
Yes, VPNs are permitted in Saudi Arabia if used for legitimate purposes, such as business, banking, or general online privacy. However, it is strictly prohibited if used to bypass internet filters to access banned content, such as gambling or adult sites. If you continue to use VPN for these reasons, you need to remain cautious and use only reliable and previously tested VPNs.
Surfshark has a virtual server in Saudi Arabia. It allows you to get a local IP address and bypass censorship while accessing local content. Other premium VPNs with servers located in Saudi Arabia are Proton VPN, IPVanish, and CyberGhost. While NordVPN does not offer servers in Saudi Arabia, it does cover neighboring countries, making them a valuable resource for staying private online within Saudi Arabia.
Yes, NordVPN works in Saudi Arabia. While it doesn’t have servers in the country itself, it covers neighboring countries, such as the UAE, Egypt, and Cyprus. It allows you to remain private online without having significant speed losses. On the other hand, if you want to unblock Saudi Arabia-specific content, you can use Surfshark, which has local servers in the region.
Surfshark is the best VPN for Saudi Arabia. It is highly effective at bypassing the local restrictions thanks to its NoBorders mode and Camouflage Mode (obfuscation), which hides VPN use from the ISP. Furthermore, it is a budget-friendly VPN that allows multiple simultaneous connections, making it an ideal option for those seeking a premium and versatile VPN without breaking the bank. Plus, it features high-speed servers and robust security, ensuring reliable data privacy.
No, you can’t use a free VPN for Saudi Arabia safely. While, in theory, they work, in practice, most free services are generally not safe. Many free VPNs log and sell your data, and their security is often weak. Furthermore, free services frequently lack the necessary obfuscation technology to hide VPN traffic from local ISPs, which can result in connection blocks. If you must use one, I recommend opting for a freemium option, such as Proton VPN, or taking advantage of free trials and money-back guarantees from premium VPNs.
Yes, tourists can use VPNs in Saudi Arabia. However, the process requires some precautions. While the technology itself is not illegal in the country, I wouldn’t recommend using it for illicit activities, such as gambling or pornography, especially if your VPN is prone to weaker security or data leaks. Furthermore, it is recommended to download your VPN before arriving in the country to ensure connectivity, as many VPN service providers are banned in Saudi Arabia.
