5 Best VPNs for Egypt in 2024

Internet freedom, government surveillance, and censorship are some of the biggest issues while using the Internet in Egypt. Thousands of websites, including social media and news sites, are blocked in the country. The government has also banned voice and video calls via messaging apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Facebook Messenger. Moreover, some popular VPN protocols and services are also blocked, creating a risky online environment.

Thankfully, some industry-leading VPN providers have employed innovative workarounds that work well in unblocking the otherwise barred VPN protocols and websites. You can learn about the best Egypt VPNs right here.

Best VPNs for Egypt – The quick list

We’ll get into expansive detail on each service later in the article, but here is our shortlist if you are in a rush.

1. NordVPN – Our top-pick VPN for Egypt. It has an extensive network of high-speed servers, solid security, unlimited bandwidth, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. ExpressVPN – Fast speed servers, unblocks all the major streaming sites, allows torrenting and robust encryption.
3. Surfshark – Has a growing server network, impressive unblocking capability, plenty of security features, and unlimited simultaneous connections.
4. IPVanish – Bypasses geo-restrictions easily, unlimited simultaneous connections, a strong focus on privacy, and excellent 24/7 customer support.
5. VyprVPN – Operates a server in Egypt, Chameleon protocol to disguise VPN traffic, great security and privacy.

Why is it necessary to use a VPN in Egypt?

Censorship and surveillance

The Muslim Brotherhood was banned in Egypt after the Arab Spring, which almost caused the country to collapse. After normalcy returned, the government went on a spree of imposing more substantial restrictions on freedom of speech. For example, it has banned over 24 news websites for allegedly inciting terrorism in recent years.

Furthermore, the local media is highly controlled. So, any outlet that allegedly says anything contrary to the government is silenced, prosecuted, or completely shut down by force. Also, around 2015, Egyptian security forces assaulted dozens of journalists, and in 2017, a human rights lawyer was incarcerated for expressing dissenting political opinions.

Under President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s regime, the country faces a bad economy, a high unemployment rate, and insurgent or ISIS-like groups. In addition, with a population of 104 million, a whopping 71.914% have internet access, which ironically is severely restricted.

Moreover, in 2014, the el-Sisi government introduced the High Council for Cybersecurity (HCC) to protect citizens against cybercrime. However, it was a ploy to monitor internet activities and conduct widespread surveillance on citizens. This is a major problem, as many journalists have been arrested for reporting injustice.

As you can see, the political environment in Egypt is a bit strained, so it is essential to stay private with a VPN. Unfortunately, most VPN providers claim to be secure, yet they offer mediocre services and can even put you at risk. Therefore, ensure you get a dependable and trustworthy VPN for Egypt.

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Freedom of speech

Egyptian political situation doesn’t seem to get better. The current regime of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is highly authoritarian and curtails freedom of speech and expression. For instance, in 2020, a woman was arrested for spreading fake news about COVID-19 on Facebook.

Further, more arrests have been made due to freedom of expression. For example, a website opened by Khaled Elbalshy to campaign for independent journalism was terminated after a month of operation.

That is why you must use a reliable VPN to protect yourself from government surveillance and limitations.

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Accessing geo-restricted streaming services

Streaming videos is a great way of unwinding, especially in a country with many restrictions and instability. So, you can enjoy a wide range of content from popular streaming services like Amazon Prime, Hulu, Netflix, DisneyPlus, and many more. Although it may seem impossible, you can bypass streaming services’ geo-restrictions with a reliable VPN. Connecting to a VPN server will enable you to access blocked content from anywhere worldwide.

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Essential features to look for in a VPN for Egypt

One of the biggest concerns in Egypt is online privacy. Fortunately, the VPNs we have compiled in this article have strong privacy policies. Additionally, all of them offer strong OpenVPN encryption. Here are other features to look out for (so that you know what makes a VPN good for Egypt):

Kill switch

This is a crucial feature to prevent your traffic from leaking accidentally if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. Every Egypt VPN should have this feature, as you can get into trouble for accessing restricted content.

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Zero-logs policy

Check out the logging practices of the service you intend to use. Notably, it should have a no-logs policy and shouldn’t record any identifiable information. This is important because the government can compel the VPN provider to hand over the data.

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DNS leak protection

 A DNS leak can make your ISP see the websites you are visiting. This is a major issue if you are concerned with your privacy. So, ensure the VPN you use has DNS leak protection.

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Egyptian servers

Besides having servers in other parts of the world, a good VPN for Egypt should have a local server. This will enable you to access blocked websites and services within Egypt while maintaining your privacy.

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OpenVPN encryption

OpenVPN protocol is well known and has been audited extensively. Therefore, it offers sufficient protection to your data now and in the future.

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Obfuscation

Another crucial feature to consider for an Egyptian VPN is the masking technology. Since the OpenVPN protocol is blocked in the country, you need a VPN with an obfuscation feature or stealth mode. These specially designed servers will enable you to evade OpenVPN blocks and ISP bandwidth throttling. In addition, they will make your VPN traffic seem like regular HTTPS traffic, preventing ISPs from noticing VPN usage.

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Server locations and connections speeds

People in Egypt use a VPN mainly to evade censorship and surveillance. However, it is also a great tool for entertainment purposes. For example, you can pretend to be in another country to access geographically restricted streaming sites.

That will enable you to watch BBC iPlayer alongside other British services such as All 4, ITV Hub, etc. Also, you can unblock Netflix US and other American streaming websites. However, most VPNs have weak unblocking capabilities, so you should stick to the providers in this guide.

Also, a VPN with an extensive server network will come a long way to let you stream content from anywhere. Speed is also an essential consideration for a smooth streaming experience.

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5 best Egypt VPNs – The detailed list

1. NordVPN

NordVPN is our top recommended VPN for Egypt. It has an extensive network of more than 6,800 servers in 113 countries, allowing you to access content across borders.

This is a great option to access content outside Egypt as it doesn’t have servers within the country. So, you must subscribe to another service if you need an Egyptian IP address. Nonetheless, NordVPN is a secure service with essential features such as AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection, etc.

It unblocks all the popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Hotstar, HBO, and many more. Also, NordVPN offers unlimited bandwidth; most servers provide sufficient speed to stream content in HD. The speed is also enough for torrenting as the VPN supports P2P traffic.

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2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the best VPN service to unblock streaming platforms in Egypt. This is because it is super-fast and even has a server in the country. Besides, it has a massive network of 3,000 servers in 107 countries, enabling you to access content in other countries.

Another reason that makes it perfect for Egypt is its solid security. It uses AES 256-bit encryption to protect you from third parties such as your ISP, government, and hackers. Other essential features include DNS leak protection, kill switch, and obfuscation servers.

ExpressVPN offers intuitive apps for almost all devices, including Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux. It allows you to connect up to 5 devices, but you can install the app on your router to add more connections. So, this is an excellent option if you want to browse with an Egypt IP address.

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3. Surfshark

Surfshark is a reliable VPN option with many VPN features to protect you against government surveillance and other third parties.

It has an extensive network of over 3,200 servers in over 100+ countries. Unfortunately, none of the servers are based in Egypt, which might be an issue if you want to access local content. However, Surfshark is better suited to access geo-blocked websites from abroad. The good news is that it can bypass restrictions of popular on-demand services like Netflix, DAZN, Amazon Prime Video, etc.

The VPN is packed with robust security features. First, it has AES 256-bit encryption that will prevent your ISP and government from snooping on your online activities. Second, Surfshark offers protection against DNS and IP leaks to maintain your privacy. In addition, it provides multiple tunneling protocols such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, and Shodowsocks.

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4. IPVanish

IPVanish is an affordable VPN service for Egypt. Although it doesn’t have a server in Egypt, you can access content in other countries. Fortunately, it can unblock popular streaming sites such as Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, ESPN, HBO Go, etc.

The VPN also permits P2P sharing across its entire server network. However, you should activate the kill switch in the settings before commencing with torrenting.

IPVanish is as secure as it gets. For instance, it offers industry-standard AES 256-bit encryption to protect your connections. In addition, there is perfect forward-secrecy DNS leak protection and OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. Also, the XOR obfuscated servers will help evade advanced VPN bans in Egypt.

Undoubtedly, IPVanish headquarters in the US may raise privacy concerns as it is a member of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. Fortunately, the provider enforces a strict no-logs policy, so there won’t be any data to hand over.

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5. VyprVPN

VyprVPN is an excellent VPN to evade Egypt’s content geo-restrictions. This is because the provider has recently introduced a server in Cairo, Egypt.

Although it is based in Switzerland, it is managed by Golden Frog, a US-based company. Fortunately, it runs its own server infrastructure, which is good for privacy. Also, the provider has a no-logs policy, so your information will remain private.

The VPN operates more than 700 servers in 70 locations globally, including Egypt. This means that you will be able to access local and international content.

VyprVPN has necessary security features such as AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. It is available on all major devices, including Android, Windows, macOS, and iOS.

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Free VPN with Egypt location

A free VPN can be helpful, especially if you don’t have money. However, most of the free Egyptian VPNs you will encounter will cause you more problems, so they aren’t worth your effort.

For example, they make money by collecting and selling your information to third parties. Also, the Egyptian authorities can request your information since they collect users’ data.

Moreover, they boast great security and encryption, but it is all hot air. They don’t employ reliable security measures, so anyone can intercept your connections and access your online activities. Also, some free VPN apps contain malware, which can harm your device. With this in mind, you don’t need a completely free VPN. If you are on a budget, you can choose a freemium option like Windscribe. Also, you can check out our list of cheap VPNs that will be useful in Egypt.

Alternatives to free VPNs

Instead of opting for free VPNs, you should go for the free versions of premium VPNs like ProtonVPN. Although they are limited to compel you to upgrade to the paid plans, you will still maintain your security and privacy. In addition, as I mentioned before, you can use the free trials and money-back guarantees of premium services. Also, if you don’t mind parting with a small amount, you can check out these cheap VPN options.

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How to get an Egyptian IP address anywhere

Because of the online censorship by the Egyptian government, you may want to protect your privacy when accessing the internet. That is why it is essential to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for privacy to control your digital privacy completely. Our recommended providers will enable you to get an Egyptian IP address to access whatever you want privately and securely.

However, you need a local VPN server to get the Egyptian IP address and unblock geo-restricted websites and apps. With an Egyptian VPN server, your connections will be protected while maintaining your IP address in Egypt.

Use the following steps to get an Egypt IP address quickly:

1. Select a VPN service. We have compiled a list of top Egypt VPNs that will quickly give you an Egyptian IP address, NordVPN being the number one recommendation.
2. Download the appropriate app for your device. Fortunately, all the services above have apps for almost all devices.
3. Install the VPN software and launch it.
4. Check the settings. Ensure it is on the IKEv2 or OpenVPN encryption. These are the most secure protocols that will do everything possible to improve your privacy.
5. Connect to an Egyptian server: This will give you an Egyptian IP address to access any blocked local content.

What can I get with an Egypt IP address?

Many websites and apps are only available in Egypt due to geographic restrictions. However, having an Egyptian IP address will enable you to access anything you want in the country.

Moreover, you will use local services such as online banking even when you travel abroad. In addition, your internet service provider (ISP) will not trace your activities. This means that it won’t throttle your bandwidth when doing data-intensive activities like torrenting and streaming.

Also, an Egyptian IP address will help you to watch online content from Egyptian TV channels like ON E and ELGTV.

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Why are websites and services geo-blocked?

Content owners and streaming platforms may sometimes restrict content to specific regions. They do so for various reasons, such as control of the flow of information, protection of national security, protection of cultural values and beliefs, copyright laws and regulations, and certain business reasons, such as licenses.

However, the primary reason why most sites geo-block their content is to make more money. When services are geo-restricted, other regions that wish to enjoy the services must pay to do so. That way, the providers can sell access to content in more than one country, thus increasing their profit margins.

How do you access blocked websites in Egypt?

Most school and workplace administrators can prevent access to specific websites. In the same way, the government can prevent you from opening VPN websites. This will make subscribing and downloading a VPN app difficult, but it’s not impossible. Below are some of the methods you can use to unblock sites in Egypt:

1. If you can’t download a VPN because its website is blocked, changing your Domain Name System (DNS) can be a solution. Usually, your Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can assign you a restrictive or slow DNS, preventing you from accessing blocked sites. Fortunately, you can alter your DNS settings. For example, your overall connection can improve significantly using an alternative DNS like Google’s. This will also help you access VPN websites that were previously blocked.
2. Another way to bypass website restrictions is to use Tor. However, you will have first to download Tor to use its network. Thankfully, some providers, such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN, provide Onion over VPN servers.
3. Alternatively, you can use VPN mirror websites that mimic the leading VPN sites. These are easily accessible, and you should be able to subscribe and download the VPN app.

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Privacy and censorship in Egypt

The Egyptian government is known for censoring the internet to stop citizens from accessing content associated with terrorism. Initially, this was majorly applied to media websites but later extended to other sites. For example, over 500 websites were allegedly blocked in the first quarter of 2020.

2018 social media law

Egypt adopted a law governing the use of social media and other internet platforms in 2018. According to the law, the Egyptian government has wide-ranging authority to restrict, punish, or take down social media accounts and websites deemed contravention of the law.

Additionally, it mandates that social media companies register with the Supreme Council and abide by the government’s demands to remove content or reveal user information.

You can get around these restrictions by connecting to a VPN. This helps disguise your IP address so that it seems as though you’re in a foreign country.

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Other attacks on Internet freedom

Egypt’s internet censorship is growing by the day. Besides the well-known internet censorship, the government has issued other strict actions, including:

• Authorities shut off the encrypted voice calling feature on the Signal app.
• The government is looking to implement new legislation that mandates a life sentence for individuals who use web platforms to create a terrorist group, promote its ideas, exchange information and tasks, facilitate funding, and exchange weaponry, ammunition, or explosives. 
• A lawyer was sentenced to 10 years and a 5-year internet ban for Facebook remarks disparaging President Abdel Fattah El Sisi.
• Authorities can conduct surveillance without judicial oversight.

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Is using a VPN legal in Egypt?

Unlike other countries like Russia and Belarus, having a VPN in Egypt is not illegal. This is because many entities in the country use VPNs to protect their data. However, some things you can do with a VPN may be deemed illegal. For example, you can get into trouble accessing content the government has blocked purposely. Also, hiding your connections to communicate contrary views can put you in a tight spot.

This is why we encourage you to use a reliable VPN service. Sadly, many VPNs use outdated encryption, have poor privacy policies, and suffer major leaks, exposing you to all and sundry. So, please stick to the providers on this list, as we’ve thoroughly tested them.

How will a VPN keep you safe in Egypt?

A VPN is a fantastic tool that enables you to access blocked content anonymously. It works by hiding your IP address and allowing you to pretend to be in whatever country you like. So, for example, if you have traveled outside Egypt, you can continue to watch your favorite programming and access your online bank.

Most reliable VPNs use military-grade encryption to provide digital privacy. This allows you to access blocked websites without worrying about your ISP or government snooping on your activities.

Securing your online connections with an Egypt VPN service

The Egyptian government is highly invasive, and the citizens risk being controlled through propaganda. In addition, dissenting political and religious opinions are forbidden, which leaves people in a bubble of disinformation. Freedom House indicates that Egypt lacks freedom of the press and internet freedom.

Moreover, high levels of surveillance severely violate citizens’ rights. So, using a VPN in Egypt is absolutely necessary if you want to protect your privacy. It will enable you to access blocked websites, social media sites, and messaging services. In addition, you can comment on blogs and express your opinions without repercussions.

Additionally, a VPN will help you avoid sudden blackouts by the government. So, whatever happens, you can still access the internet securely and anonymously.

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Safeguarding your data in Egypt

All of your web traffic will be encrypted when you use a trustworthy VPN for Egypt. As a result, your ISP and government cannot track your online activities.

Besides, with VPN encryption, local administrators in schools, workplaces, and coffee shops cannot see the websites you visit. This means you can access whatever you want, even if it is restricted or censored.

The VPN encryption will also secure your data from malicious actors. When you access public WiFi, hackers can easily access your connection and steal your valuable information. However, a VPN will keep you safe and prevent this from happening.

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What else can an Egypt VPN do for me?

VPN services aren’t for bypassing geo-restrictions only. There are other ways that they can be helpful:

Encrypting your Internet connection

A VPN can be helpful in providing encryption for the data transmitted between the client and the server. You’re routing your traffic through an encrypted tunnel by connecting to a VPN. This ensures that no third parties can intercept and view your activity.

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Prevent ISP throttling

When you use a VPN service, your network connection is encrypted and passes through a secure server, making it more difficult for your ISP to monitor and throttle your connection. In addition, some ISPs limit certain types of traffic, such as Torrenting and online video gaming, to manage network congestion. You can bypass these limitations by connecting to a VPN.

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FAQs