Best VPNs for Egypt in 2024: Unblock WhatsApp & More

A VPN will allow the user to access restricted apps and services in Egypt. Whether you’re traveling within the region or an Egyptian national, here’s what you need to know to get started. 

Egypt has blocked hundreds of apps and websites, as the current regime aims to control public discourse by limiting online criticism of the government. It’s not ideal for anyone traveling within the country, or for anyone living in the region. However, you can bypass any blocks on content in Egypt by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). 

A VPN will hide your home IP address, replacing it with a different IP located in a country of your choice. This can be used to access blocked services as though you were abroad, including popular streaming platforms, social media, news websites, and VoIP apps.

This is ideal for expats and travelers in Egypt, as you’ll be able to access content from back home despite online censorship. We’ll discuss each of the best VPNs for Egypt in detail, but if you’d prefer a quick summary, take a look at the shortlist below.

Best VPNs for Egypt:

1. NordVPN: Our top pick for Egypt. Capable provider with speedy connections. Provides cloaking, Meshnet for secure access to devices, streaming support, and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: The best budget VPN for Egypt. Servers in 100+ countries, unlimited simultaneous connections, strong encryption, and affordable deals. 
3. ExpressVPN: Impressive VoIP and streaming access in Egypt and elsewhere. Includes an Egyptian server location, perfect for streaming and torrenting. 
4. Proton VPN: Secure Core Egyptian servers, streaming support, and offers a free plan with no bandwidth limits.
5. Mullvad: Limited free tier, anonymous sign-up available, excellent speeds, and lots of privacy features. 
6. CyberGhost: Bare metal NoSpy servers, speedy connections, dedicated streaming and torrenting servers, and a 45-day money-back guarantee.
7. IPVanish: Various features to improve security, 2,000 self-owned servers, and able to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. Can access numerous popular streaming services. 

Summary Table

Various VPNs can handle the basics, although many still manage to overpromise and underdeliver. We were able to significantly narrow the field with our inclusion criteria. Here are some of the non-negotiable characteristics we looked for:

• A capable network of servers worldwide to access blocked sites and services 
• Fast speeds and reliable performance, based on speed tests we've conducted 
• Top-of-the-line privacy and security features 
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN provider must operate a 100% diskless server network
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN provider must have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party

For more information about the criteria we used, check out the testing methodology section later in this article.

The best VPNs for Egypt

We’ve taken an in-depth look at what each VPN service has to offer. Here’s everything you need to know about the best VPNs for Egypt:

NordVPN is one of the many providers that no longer have servers in Egypt. It’s still our top pick for unblocking sites and services while in the country due to an abundance of helpful features, including obfuscated servers and Double VPN. The former can hide VPN use from your ISP, while the latter encrypts traffic twice for added security. 

Meshnet could also come in handy if you’re visiting Egypt from abroad, as it can give the user secure access to devices located back at home. You don’t have to be a Nord subscriber to use Meshnet, and anyone can download and use the service for free. 

NordVPN comes with ad and malware blocking tools, while the proprietary NordLynx protocol is a fork of WireGuard. A total of 5,900+ servers in 60+ countries translates to a large network, even if there are no locations in Egypt specifically. This does mean that you won’t be able to access local Egyptian services while the VPN is active.  

However, Nord does unblock a variety of streaming platforms and online services consistently in countries like the United States and the UK, including BBC iPlayer and Netflix. It can also be used for torrenting, or accessing many types of online content.  

The provider is based in the privacy-friendly region of Panama, it keeps minimal logs, and it has had its apps and infrastructure independently audited. RAM-only servers allow data to be wiped quickly and easily if need be. 

TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR EGYPT: NordVPN is a great pick for expats and travelers in Egypt, offering robust security features like obfuscated servers and Meshnet. Great for bypassing VoIP geo–restrictions and comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

Surfshark is a close second on this list, offering a low-cost service that is anything but no-frills. It has an impressive network of 3,200+ RAM-only servers in a total of 100+ countries, including four in Cairo. 

The Egyptian servers are virtual, which means they aren’t physically located in the country. However, the servers will still give the user an Egyptian IP address, which can grant access to region-locked Egyptian sites, apps, and services.

Surfshark boasts noteworthy features including split tunneling, MultiHop, and obfuscated servers. NoBorders mode automatically detects any restrictions on your network, giving the user a list of compatible servers to choose from.

You’ll be able to connect unlimited devices with a single Surfshark account, and it’s already one of the more affordable options if you’re looking at longer deals. It works to access a large number of blocked services including 20+ Netflix catalogs, and security is watertight. 

It has a collection of usable apps for Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, and there were no DNS leaks or WebRTC leaks to speak of. 

BEST BUDGET OPTION FOR EGYPT: Whether it’s Egypt or elsewhere, Surfshark is an affordable option for improving online privacy. Servers in 100+ countries, strong security and streaming, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN has servers in Egypt, even if these are virtual, rather than physical. These can be used to get an Egyptian IP address or to access local content via ON E or ELGTV. The same is true for many streaming platforms around the world, thanks to a network of 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries. 

As well as being a viable choice for users aiming to unblock content from lots of geo-restricted streaming platforms, it also works with VoIP services like Skype and WhatsApp, and many other sites and services that are inaccessible in Egypt. 

The custom Lightway protocol ensures that connection speeds are fast enough for 4K streaming, and the kill switch is automatically enabled by default.

ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy, with RAM-only servers, obfuscation, and audited infrastructure. Desktop apps have been tested independently, with penetration tests and source code audits performed by Cure53 and F-Secure. It also comes with DNS leak protection, and various features designed to guard you from online threats. 

You’ll find a selection of beginner-friendly apps for all major operating systems, and a single account can be used with up to eight simultaneous devices. It’s a great option for streaming or accessing blocked content in Egypt, but pricing could be a bit more competitive.  

BEST VPN FOR UNBLOCKING: ExpressVPN will be able to handle almost any geo-restrictions, offering user-friendly apps for all popular operating systems. Numerous servers in 105 countries. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

Proton VPN has eight servers in Egypt, added as part of a 2021 expansion of its network. Servers are located in Cairo and can be used for streaming. They also block ads and trackers.

Privacy-conscious users might prefer Proton’s Secure Core servers, which are routed through Sweden before reaching Egypt for improved security. In total, the service offers coverage in 69+ countries. 

The provider is probably best known for a capable free tier, with servers available in three regions (Japan, the Netherlands, and the United States). Interestingly, there’s no bandwidth cap for free users, but speeds are slower, it lacks streaming or torrenting support, there’s no ad blocker, and you can’t access Tor over VPN. These features are all reserved for Plus (paid) members. 

Developed by the ProtonMail team, it has open-source apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and FireTV. It comes with a strict no-logs policy, and the Plus tier will unblock multiple international streaming platforms. 

It lacks live chat support, so it might not be the best option for beginners. 

SECURE, FREE SERVERS: Proton VPN sets the standard for free providers, with a strong premium offering that is perfect for Egypt. Open source apps, high speeds, streaming access, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Proton VPN.

Mullvad should definitely be on your radar. It allows the user to sign up without handing over any information, making it impossible to identify exactly who is using the VPN. 

Mullvad happens to be one of the fastest providers on the market, with impressive maximum connection speeds that exceed 650 Mbps. 

As with NordVPN, it doesn’t have any Egyptian locations, and it’s a smaller network overall with roughly 700+ servers in 42+ countries. 

You’ll find capable apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. It comes with a vast selection of features to improve security and privacy, including MultiHop, obfuscation, WireGuard, and split tunneling. The always-on kill switch will be helpful if you don’t have the most reliable internet connection, and it’s one of the few providers to offer IPv6 support. 

One caveat is that it can’t be relied upon for streaming, as the service prefers to focus on security above all else. It also lacks live chat support, although it does publish lots of online guides and tutorials.   

BEST VPN FOR ANONYMITY: Mullvad allows the user to sign up anonymously, offers a strict no-logs policy, fast speeds, and comes with plenty of features to improve privacy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Mullvad.

CyberGhost has 40+ virtual servers in Cairo, so it’s a great pick for securely accessing local content in Egypt. It’s part of an expansive network that spans 100+ countries, with over 10,000+ servers in total. 

You’ll be able to stream from regions like the US and the UK with ease. Some servers are specifically optimized for Netflix, Hulu, Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video, NBC, Channel 4, BBC iPlayer, and many other platforms. This makes it a solid solution for travelers or expats aiming to access sites and services from home. Impressive streaming speeds and top-notch encryption make it an attractive option. 

CyberGhost has capable connection speeds due to the WireGuard protocol, which is the default option for all apps. It also offers bare metal NoSpy servers that are owned, operated, and controlled by the provider. Overall it is a fantastic option for gaining privacy whether on public WiFi, at work, or at home.

The lack of obfuscation does mean that Egyptian ISPs will be able to see that you’re using a VPN, but CyberGhost passed our DNS and WebRTC leak tests with flying colors – so your actual web visits and metadata will always be protected.

PERFECT FOR STREAMING: CyberGhost has the most Egyptian servers of the providers to make this list. Reliable VPN service with user-friendly apps, a vast network, impressive speeds, streaming-optimized servers, affordable deals, and a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

IPVanish has 2,200+ self-owned servers, including coverage in 17 cities in the United States. It’s perfect if you’re hoping to stream live sports, or to access US content, but it’s another provider that has no servers in Egypt itself. 

In fact, the service has noted that the domain ‘ipvanish.com’ is blocked within Egypt. As such, you might not be able to sign up with the provider in the country, so it’s best to download the app and make an account before entering the region. 

The fast WireGuard protocol makes it great for VoIP calls. Obfuscation (Scramble) is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and FireTV devices. It offers speedy VPN connections, and it won't leak your real IP address in the process.

You’ll be able to connect to an unlimited number of devices with a single account, and beginner-friendly apps are suitable for streaming, gaming, or torrenting.

GREAT FOR USA SERVICES: IPVanish allows for unlimited connections, and is perfect for travelers in Egypt who want to access US sites and services like online banking. Obfuscation, WireGuard, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for Egypt

Rather than picking out providers at random, we’ve compiled a comprehensive VPN testing methodology. We test and compare the best VPNs in the business. 

Our strict criteria mean that only providers dedicated to digital privacy, with excellent usability and optimal performance make it onto our list. Below, you can see the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for Egypt:

• Servers: The provider must have a large selection of servers to choose from in multiple locations worldwide. Ideally, servers will allow for streaming and torrenting, while it must be able to access blocked VoIP services in Egypt. Given the political climate, virtual servers are acceptable. 
• Speeds and performance: Top speeds and performance are a must, especially if you connect to physical servers in a faraway location. 
• Privacy and security: Advanced privacy and security features, including a kill switch and leak protection. Ideally the service will also offer obfuscation, which makes VPN traffic look like normal web traffic.
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. You are essentially placing more faith in your VPN provider than you are in your ISP. Almost every provider says they are a ‘no logs' VPN. The only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. We will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. While this isn't foolproof, it's the closest the industry has to a verification process for logging policies.
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions on BleepingComputer. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers and it is wiped on shutdown. It can also easily be wiped as a part of regular security procedures.

How to unblock websites in Egypt with a VPN

In 2023, the majority of popular commercial VPNs are reasonably easy to set up and use with most devices. Since you’ll be attempting to bypass blocks in Egypt to access apps or content via international servers, we’ve put together a relevant guide below:

1. Sign up with a VPN that offers secure coverage for users in Egypt (NordVPN is our recommendation).
2. Download the VPN app to any devices you want to use.  
3. Open the app and sign in.
4. Select a server in a country you’d like to connect to. For example, American travelers might want to pick a server located in the United States. 
5. Once connected, your data will be encrypted by the VPN. You’ll also have a new IP address that can be used to access any blocked sites or apps.

Egypt VPN: FAQs

Why use a VPN in Egypt?

Freedom House paints a stark picture when looking at Egypt’s level of freedom. It notes that:

“Meaningful political opposition is virtually nonexistent, as expressions of dissent can draw criminal prosecution and imprisonment. Civil liberties, including press freedom and freedom of assembly, are tightly restricted. Security forces engage in human rights abuses and extrajudicial killing with impunity. Discrimination against women, LGBT+ people, and other groups remain serious problems, as do high rates of sexual and gender-based violence.”

Egypt has blocked voice and video calls made over VoIP and messaging apps for years, limiting the ability to communicate over secure channels in the country. For example, Skype has been blocked since 2010. 

A crackdown has seen ISPs ordered to block hundreds of blogs and news sites, limiting the amount of information made available online. A 2018 social media law “prohibits the establishment of websites without obtaining a license from the Supreme Council and allows it to suspend or block existing websites, or impose fines on editors.”

A VPN will allow the user to connect to a server in a different country, accessing everything from blocked news sites to VoIP services.

Can I use a free VPN for Egypt instead?

Given the current climate in Egypt, it’s inadvisable to use a free VPN service. It’s not unheard of for a free provider to leak user data, even if it’s due to negligence, rather than malice. In any case, a significant number of free VPNs contain malware or are prone to DNS leaks. 

Even the freemium services offered by Proton and Mullvad are limited to some degree. Each VPN will keep your data safe and secure with its free plan, but both block access to streaming sites, and the latter enforces a bandwidth cap.

Are VPNs legal in Egypt?

VPNs are legal in Egypt, but VPN websites might be unavailable in the country. IPVanish has reported that it is blocked by ISPs in the region, so you’ll have to download the app from abroad.

Can I get an Egyptian IP address?

Yes, as long as the provider has a relevant server location in Egypt. An Egyptian IP address can be used to access local services safely. Surfshark and ExpressVPN have virtual servers in Cairo, but these are actually located elsewhere for improved security.

Can I use a VPN to unblock WhatsApp calls in Egypt?

Yes. You’ll need to select a VPN server location in a country where WhatsApp isn’t blocked. We’d suggest using a nearby location, and Greece is a European country that isn’t too far from Cairo.

Is it safe to use a VPN in Egypt?

It’s safe to use a no-logs VPN, and it will help expats to access content from home while in Egypt. 

You could face a fine or a jail sentence if you’re caught accessing banned content in the country. A VPN is a great tool for improving online privacy, but it’s a good idea to be aware of local laws, while avoiding any illegal activities in the process. 

Does the Egyptain government engage in online surveillance?

Yes. The Egyptian government engages in high levels of online surveillance. The government has passed laws that let it monitor and control internet activities in the country. This includes the ability to track communications, monitor social media users, and block websites considered incompatible with local laws, cultures, and traditions.

The government body tasked with tracking citizens online is the National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (NTRA). This body is known to abuse its power to block dissenting online speech. According to Freedom House, for example, the NTRA has a history of enforced blocks without proper justification. The NTRA also uses its power to monitor VoIP calls, which are technically illegal in the country. 

In terms of legislation, Egypt's 2018 cybercrime law has been widely criticized due to its potential for abuse. This law allows the government to intercept online communications en masse. The vague language in these regulations increases the potential for authorities to block content and propagandize citizens – by preventing access to content critical of the government.

It is also worth noting that the Egyptian government uses deep packet inspection. This allows the government to monitor internet traffic and increases the need for citizens to protect themselves with VPN encryption, preferably with added obfuscation.