What travellers should expect from the internet in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia operates one of the most restrictive internet environments in the world. The Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) blocks a wide range of content, including adult material, gambling sites, LGBTQ+ resources, and political speech. Many VoIP services, such as certain calling apps, are also restricted or throttled. For travellers, this means your usual apps and websites may not work as expected.
Using a VPN is strongly recommended. A reliable VPN encrypts your connection, allowing you to access blocked services and browse more freely. It also helps protect your data on public Wi-Fi networks, which are common in hotels and cafés. However, VPN use itself is not officially banned, and many travellers use them without issue. Choose a VPN with strong encryption and a no-logs policy to minimise your digital footprint.
Be aware that the Cybercrime Law in Saudi Arabia includes provisions that could be used to penalise online activities deemed illegal. While VPNs are widely used, you should still avoid accessing content that is explicitly prohibited by local law. Stay informed, stay cautious, and keep your device updated.
How privacy and VPN rules affect a Saudi Arabia trip
Saudi Arabia is not a member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which sets it apart from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. However, the country has its own strict surveillance and cybercrime laws. The CITC oversees internet regulation and can block content or monitor traffic. The Cybercrime Law grants authorities broad powers to investigate and prosecute online activities, including those related to national security or public morality.
Phone and internet service providers are required to cooperate with government requests for user data. This means that while a VPN can help protect your browsing data from casual interception, it may not shield you from targeted surveillance by authorities. Your privacy online is not guaranteed by law in the same way it is in many Western countries.
For travellers, the practical advice is to use a VPN to encrypt your traffic, avoid storing sensitive data on your devices, and be mindful of what you access or share online. Do not assume that your communications are private, even with a VPN.
Internet rules and enforcement can change. Check current official travel advice and local law before departure; a VPN does not make prohibited activity lawful.
A mobile connection routine for Saudi Arabia
Before you travel, install a VPN on your phone, laptop, and tablet. Configure it to connect automatically. Once in Saudi Arabia, connect to a server outside the country before opening any apps or websites that may be blocked. This includes VoIP services like Skype or WhatsApp calls, which are restricted. If your VPN fails, switch to a different server or protocol (e.g., OpenVPN to WireGuard). Keep a backup VPN ready in case your primary one is blocked. Remember that public Wi-Fi in airports and hotels is convenient but not secure-always use your VPN on these networks.
- Install the eSIM and VPN while you have a trusted connection.
- Save order details and setup instructions for offline access.
- After landing, test ordinary browsing before switching on the VPN.
- If the connection slows, change server or protocol before changing several settings at once.
Streaming services associated with Saudi Arabia
Catalogues and access rules may depend on location, account region and licensing. A VPN can change the apparent network location, but it cannot guarantee that a service will accept the connection.
