Best VPNs for Qatar in 2024: Unblock Content Worldwide

Are you concerned about your online freedom in Qatar? Despite being one of the Middle East’s most digitally connected nations, Qatar’s internet is under a tight grip, with numerous sites and platforms off-limits. Many residents find themselves treading cautiously online. They are hesitant to voice opinions or discuss contemporary issues due to potential consequences from authorities.

But what if there was a way to navigate the web and freely and securely access restricted content?

We’ve pinpointed the answer through rigorous research and extensive testing: A top-tier VPN tailored for Qatar. A VPN isn’t just about bypassing geo-blocks; it’s your digital shield, encrypting your online data, and cloaking your virtual footsteps. With it, not only can you access previously inaccessible content, but you’ll also ensure that prying eyes remain in the dark. Read our findings and empower your online experience in Qatar.

If you don’t have time to read the whole article, here is a summary list of the best VPNs for Qatar:

1. NordVPN Best all-round VPN for Qatar. Plenty of secure server locations and a strong emphasis on privacy. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Qatar.
2. Surfshark Best budget VPN choice. A versatile service that puts your security and privacy first.
3. IPVanish Secure and fast. Popular with streamers, torrenters and Kodi users.
4. ExpressVPN Fast speeds, excellent security, good for streaming and content unblocking.
5. PrivateVPN A newcomer with fast speeds and good for streaming.
6. PureVPN Fast, servers in 65+ countries and works to bypass VoIP blocks.
7. ProtonVPN Works with Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and other services in Qatar.
8. Hotspot Shield Offers very high speeds and strong unblocking ability.

We’ve evaluated providers on the following standards before mentioning them on our list of the best VPNs for Qatar:

Criteria for selecting the best VPNs for Qatar

• Has a wide network of servers across the world
• Unblocks geo-restricted streaming services without breaking a sweat
• Offers a fast and reliable service
• Uses strong encryption parameters to guard your location
• Allows for multiple simultaneous connections
• Provides excellent customer support

The best VPNs for Qatar – Our hands-on review

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

Best VPNs for Qatar

Here’s our list of the best VPNs for Qatar that meet our criteria.

1. NordVPN

Nov 2024 Works In QatarTested Nov 2024

NordVPN is our top pick for a Qatar VPN. It pegs at incredible speeds and has built a robust reputation around privacy. Its network of more than 8,200 servers spans 111 countries with plenty of options in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia.

NordVPN’s fast speeds mean it’s well-suited for streaming HD video. In our extensive user review, the service was easily able to circumvent blockades on sites such as US Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, ESPN, and more. Users are offered a choice to select a server that optimizes certain tasks, including streaming HD video and double VPN.

NordVPN does not store any user data. Its servers have been confiscated on a couple of occasions, but authorities have not found any incriminating evidence. Security standards include 256-bit encryption, the OpenVPN protocol, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection.

Apps are available for Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. A basic plan allows for six devices to connect concurrently.

BEST FOR QATAR:NordVPN is our top pick. It works well for streaming, keeps no logs, and is packed with great security features. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free deal.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

works in QatarTested Nov 2024

Surfshark is a budget-friendly provider that offers access to over 1,700 servers in 60+ countries, so it’s a great choice for bypassing geographic restrictions. Of course, it also lets you access websites that are usually unavailable in Qatar. One of the best things about Surfshark is that it has no connection limit. This means that you can browse the web securely on every device you own, without having to remember which devices are unprotected.

This service actually includes a NoBorders feature that was designed to bypass country-wide internet blocking. There’s also 256-bit AES encryption, an internet kill switch, an ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks. Surfshark follows a no-logging policy, but for added protection, you can choose to pay in Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Ripple. Surfshark customer support actively encourages you to contact them over 24/7 live chat if you find yourself unable to use the service in Qatar.

Surfshark offers access to Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS apps. This VPN also works with select wireless routers, although you’ll have to install it manually.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark comes packed with security and privacy features, making it ideal for anyone who wants to access the internet freely in Qatar. It also offers decent speeds, a no-logs policy, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

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4. ExpressVPN

Works In QatarTested Nov 2024

ExpressVPN ships with top-notch encryption standards, offers fast speeds, and incorporates a server network that spans the globe.

This provider offers more than 3,000 servers to choose from around the world. It easily unblocks a wide selection of geo-restricted streaming media services, including US Netflix, HBO, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more. Live customer support is available around the clock to iron out any concerns.

ExpressVPN is one of the hardest providers out there from a security and encryption standpoint. It uses 256-bit AES encryption, which is considered to be first-class. Included is a built-in internet kill switch along with DNS leak protection, so your information always remains within the VPN encrypted tunnel. Furthermore, ExpressVPN doesn’t store any detailed user logs, such as IP addresses.

It offers apps for Android and iOS, as well as desktop clients for Windows and macOS. A single subscription allows for five simultaneous connections.

BROWSE ANONYMOUSLY:ExpressVPN has fast speeds for streaming and torrenting, great content unblocking, and class-leading security features. Works with services blocked in Qatar, including Skype, WhatsApp calling and FaceTime. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our review of ExpressVPN.

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3. IPVanish

Works In QatarTested Nov 2024

IPVanish scores points on both speed and privacy. It’s one of the few VPN providers that independently operates its entire network of servers – most services either outsource or rent space. At the time of writing, it had 1,300 servers in over 75 locations worldwide.

Military-grade encryption protocols are shipped with all subscription tiers. Web traffic is secured with 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, DNS leak protection, and an internet kill switch. IPVanish doesn’t store any user data, meaning there’s no retention of traffic or connection logs of any nature.

IPVanish is a known favorite with torrenters and Kodi users for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it enables them to download the Android APK directly to their device. Secondly, the interface is remote control-friendly for Kodi devices that usually lack a keyboard and mouse. It works with many US streaming media sites as well as international broadcasters such as BBC iPlayer.

This provider allows an unlimited number of devices to connect concurrently, which is significantly higher than the industry standard of five. Another valuable upgrade is its addition of 24/7 live chat for customer support. It offers apps for Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS.

SUITABLE FOR TORRENTING:IPVanish is popular for torrenting. No logs, strong encryption and above average speeds. Great for streaming US content. Includes a 7-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

5. PrivateVPN

Works In QatarTested Nov 2024

PrivateVPN has quickly managed to establish a meaningful reputation for itself in the VPN industry despite its status as a relative newcomer. It delivers fast speeds with solid encryption protocols to back that up.

Its focus on quality over quantity means the server offering is relatively tiny – with just under 90 servers in 56 locations – but it does its job very well. Some of the sites it unblocks easily are Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO, and Amazon Prime Video.

Strong security and privacy features are a hallmark of this provider. Users can opt for either 128- or 256-bit encryption and are also offered perfect forward secrecy, an internet kill switch, and DNS leak protection. A basic plan allows for six devices to connect at the same time.

The provider offers apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

GOOD FOR STREAMING:PrivateVPN works well with streaming services. Unblock Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and most other streaming services. The speeds are good, although the network of servers to choose from is smaller than that of other VPNs on this list. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our review of PrivateVPN.

6. PureVPN

works in QatarTested Nov 2024

PureVPN is strongly recommended for anybody in Qatar looking for a reliable VPN that won’t break the bank. It offers a large network with servers in over 65 countries, making it perfect for bypassing VoIP blocks and accessing other censored websites in Qatar. However, it’s important to note that PureVPN doesn’t host servers in Qatar itself, so if you need a VPN to get a Qatari IP address you will need to shop elsewhere.

A significant advantage of PureVPN is its fast speeds and ability to access international streaming services, like Netflix US, from Qatar. And the integration of the WireGuard protocol allows PureVPN to provide average download speeds of around 400 Mbps. This makes it superb for HD streaming, gaming, torrenting, and making secure video calling.

The VPN’s robust AES encryption, along with a strict no-logging policy, kill switch, DNS leak prevention, and obfuscation features, make it ideal for Qatar residents wanting to use the internet without being tracked by their employer, school, ISP, or the Qatari government.

Our interactions with the live chat support were very slow, which was annoying. However, PureVPN’s affordable subscription costs make it unbeatable for those on a tight budget. If you want to try it out, you can make use of its risk-free 31-day money-back guarantee.

CHEAP VPN FOR QATAR:PureVPN represents excellent value for money. It is fast and has servers in 65+ countries that work to watch Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, disney+, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and many other popular services. Fast WireGuard protocol is ideal for gaming and torrenting. Includes a kill switch. Works to bypass VoIP blocks. 31-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our PureVPN review.

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7. ProtonVPN

works in QatarTested Nov 2024

ProtonVPN is an extremely reliable option if you want an advanced, trustworthy VPN with everything you need to use the internet privately in Qatar. The VPN has a fully audited no-logs policy and well-designed apps that come with AES encryption, obfuscation, multi-hop connections, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. This makes it one of the most advanced VPNs for Qataris wanting to use the internet free of the threat of government surveillance.

This VPN is equipped with robust AES encryption, ensuring a secure online experience. You can rely on it to access censored news, web services, or VoIP services blocked by ISPs on behalf of the Qatari government.

Although ProtonVPN doesn’t have servers in Qatar, it provides lightning-fast servers in 85 different countries. Our tests confirmed that it is extremely effective for streaming services like Netflix US and BBC iPlayer. This makes it a reliable option for Westerners visiting Qatar – or anybody in Qatar wanting to stream foreign services.

ProtonVPN’s support for split tunneling and port forwarding is perfect for torrenting. The only real consideration is its price. The longer plans are more expensive. However, the 1-month plan is a bargain- making it perfect for people traveling for work or on vacation. Live chat support is available 24/7, and you can try the VPN for 30 days using its money-back guarantee.

FULLY FEATURED:ProtonVPN has apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux that come packed with advanced features. It is a highly trusted VPN that has completed a full third-party audit. Servers are available in over 85+ countries. Works to watch Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and many other popular services in Qatar. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.

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8. Hotspot Shield

works in QatarTested Nov 2024

Hotspot Shield has more than 3,000 servers in over 70 countries worldwide. With exceptionally high speeds, this service is ideal for unblocking platforms like Netflix US, but that’s not all it’s capable of. In fact, Hotspot Shield can bypass Qatari internet censorship without any additional setup required. Users can connect up to five devices simultaneously.

This VPN includes a wide variety of security features. There’s 256-bit encryption, for instance, as well as DNS leak protection and a kill switch that ensures you’ll never inadvertently browse without being connected to the VPN. It’s also possible to automatically connect any time you’re on an unsecured network. Hotspot Shield doesn’t keep any personally identifiable data once your session ends, meaning your activities cannot be traced back to you. While the apps are very user-friendly, you can contact customer support over 24/7 live chat in the event of any problems.

Hotspot Shield apps are available for Android, Windows, macOS, and iOS devices.

BYPASS CENSORSHIP:Hotspot Shield is one of the fastest VPNs around, and it’s capable of bypassing Qatar’s internet restrictions with ease. This service provides strong security features, a 45-day money-back guarantee, and access to a huge network of servers.

Read our full Hotspot Shield review.

Qatar VPN testing methodology

Finding a VPN that has robust enough security and privacy features to be used in Qatar is not easy. Due to the political situation in Qatar, it is vital to use a VPN that provides watertight data privacy. To find reliable services that are suitable for bypassing censorship and preventing online surveillance, we used a careful VPN testing methodology.

Below, you can see some of the important things we tested for when recommending the top VPNs for Qatar:

• Robust encryption. A VPN is only as secure as the VPN tunnel it provides between your device and the VPN server. In this guide, we recommended services that provide robust VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. These protocols are known to provide high levels of security, including military-grade AES encryption. 
• A kill-switch. Every VPN in this guide has an internet kill switch designed to cut off your connection to the web if the VPN connection drops out. This fail-safe ensures that you don’t accidentally leak any activity data to your ISP that could get you in trouble with the Qatari authorities.
• Obfuscation. Although the use of a VPN isn’t strictly illegal in Qatar, using one could still be enough to raise suspicion. Obfuscation is a VPN feature designed to conceal VPN traffic as regular HTTPS. This makes it much harder for ISPs to single out people suspected of concealing their online activities with a VPN.
• Apps for all platforms. Whether you want to connect to your VPN on a desktop computer, a laptop, or a mobile device, you are going to need reliable VPN apps. In this guide, you will find services with efficient, custom VPN apps that you can use, whether at home or on public wi-fi. You can even use them on multiple devices simultaneously
• Fast global server network. To access international news content, blogs, and services that the government has restricted in Qatar, you need a VPN with a wide choice of servers. We have recommended services that have been tested and will let you not only access censored content but also geo-restricted intentional services like BBC iPlayer and Netflix.
• DNS leak protection. These kinds of leaks cause your ISP to know exactly which websites you are visiting. This causes serious concerns in countries like Qatar, where people use VPNs to bypass government censorship. The services we have recommended have been tested and do not suffer from IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks.

Should I use a free VPN in Qatar?

Qatar’s internet users will find the online landscape is heavily monitored and censored. Therefore, it’s imperative to opt for a VPN that provides top-tier levels of privacy, encryption, and speed in order to evade government censorship and access blocked content. Unfortunately, these standards are not met by the random free VPNs that exist in abundance across the interwebs.

Most free VPN providers ship a basic product in order to lure unsuspecting users and monetize their service via spammy advertisements or frequent interruptions to upgrade to a paid service. As such, they’re not going to magically offer you the same levels of customer support, speed, and other features as paid VPN services do. On a practical level, this means that you will be subjected to weak encryption standards, wait times to connect to a server in case of network congestion, and data caps. The latter aspect means a free VPN is typically a poor choice for data-intensive tasks like streaming video and playing online games.

Some sordid free VPN services have also engaged in highly unethical acts such as leveraging user bandwidth to build botnet armies and infecting host devices with malware in order to mine data. Clearly, it’s in your best interests to avoid using free VPNs when browsing the internet and choose a private VPN connection from a reputable provider.

Why should I use a VPN in Qatar?

The US Department of State clearly outlines that Qatar practices restrictions on the freedoms of speech and press criminalizes libel, restricts assembly and association, prohibits the formation of political parties and labor unions, and does not allow citizens to choose their government in free and fair elections.

In 2016, Qatari authorities blocked access to Doha News, a popular English-language news website that had a history of covering sensitive political topics. Internet censorship in the country is practiced discreetly – Ooredoo and Vodaphone, the two internet service providers, are believed to operate under the direction of the state regulator and stymie access to sites at will.

Internet advocacy body Freedom House adds that press freedoms in Qatar are “not free” and that media professionals in the country are “subject to significant restrictions.” Furthermore, the entire landscape is heavily self-censored while “journalists are subject to prosecution for criticizing the Qatari government, the ruling family, or Islam.”

What’s more, Qatar allows the regular broadcast of Al-Jazeera, a news and current affairs broadcast station that regularly criticizes rival Arab governments, but silences any voices of dissent at home.

In this climate of stifling internet freedom, it’s in your best interests to use a VPN to navigate the web in Qatar.

Torrenting in Qatar also sits in a legal grey area. Some media providers warn against streaming content from “illegal sites” or downloading material that is copyrighted, saying that said activity can warrant legal action. However, we haven’t come across any instances where individuals were persecuted for downloading torrenting material. Having said that, it’s better to remain on the safe side and use a reliable VPN while downloading torrents in order to protect your privacy.

DISCLAIMER: Comparitech does not encourage using a VPN to stream content illegally. Please consult local laws before deciding to embark on this route. If you have any questions, then it’s best to talk to a lawyer in your country of residence.

Related: Is Torrenting Safe? Is it Illegal? Are you Likely to be Caught?

How to use a VPN in Qatar

Follow the steps below to obtain a non-Qatari IP address while currently in the country.

Here’s how to use a VPN in Qatar:

1. The first order of business is to decide on a provider. We recommend NordVPN.
2. Once you’ve decided on a VPN that works for you, then simply sign up with your credit card information. Some providers also accept PayPal, Bitcoin, and other payment methods.
3. Download the relevant apps for your device directly from the provider’s site.
4. After installation is complete, restart all devices.
5. Open your VPN app and use it to connect to a server of your choice.
6. Now your internet activity is private and secure.

Accessing Netflix libraries in Qatar

If you log into your Netflix account while in Qatar, you’ll be shown the local library of content. This holds true even if you’re visiting the country and had originally registered the account in Europe or North America. Netflix scans your IP address and uses that to determine which library of content it will show. If you want to overcome this restriction, you’ll have to connect to a VPN server to change the visible Netflix library. If you’re trying to access US Netflix, you’ll need to connect to a server in the US prior to logging in to the Netflix app.

Netflix attempts to block VPNs due to copyright restriction laws. Its library of movies and television shows involves licensing agreements with other production houses, so it can’t simply broadcast all content across the globe. If you use a VPN that doesn’t support Netflix, then you’ll probably be shown a proxy error message. Most of the VPNs we’ve recommended in this article work with Netflix, but if you run into any problems, it’s a good idea to check with your VPN customer support for help. Netflix is continuously updating its filtering mechanisms, but VPNs are aware of this and constantly finding workarounds.

Qatar VPN FAQ