Online privacy is a big topic everywhere. But in the Middle East, it’s more than just a tech issue. It’s personal, social, and sometimes even legal.
People in the region use the internet for everything — shopping, chatting, studying, streaming. But many still feel uneasy about how their data is used, who sees what, and what risks they’re taking just by being online.
Why privacy feels different in MENA
In many Middle Eastern countries, online activity is more closely watched. Some governments have strict rules. Some platforms store more user data than people expect. And social norms add another layer — what’s seen online can affect real life: family, work, even safety.
For example, sharing certain opinions, visiting restricted websites, or using platforms with adult content can cause real trouble, depending on the country.
That’s why privacy matters. Not just for protecting passwords, but for protecting reputations, relationships, and rights.
What users are doing about it
Many users are getting smarter. They turn off location tracking. Use private browsers. Switch to encrypted messaging apps like Signal or Telegram. Some even use VPNs daily — not just to watch content, but to feel safe.
A 2023 report by Surfshark found that VPN usage in the Middle East grew by over 50% in just one year. In countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, millions use VPNs every month.
People are also more careful about what they share. They avoid public Wi-Fi. They double-check app permissions. And they prefer platforms that take privacy seriously.
Platforms under pressure
For online platforms, this shift is huge. Users now expect more control over their data and more transparency. They want to know:
- What’s being collected
- Who it’s shared with
- How it’s protected
- Whether the company follows local rules
This applies to every industry — from banking to education. But it’s especially true for sensitive sectors.
Take Arab casinos, for example. These platforms must go the extra mile to earn trust. Users want discreet payment options, anonymous registration, and strong encryption. If a site feels risky or careless, they’ll avoid it — even if the games are great.
In online casinos in Bahrain, privacy is a top priority. Since gambling is culturally and legally sensitive, players expect full discretion. That means secure logins, low-profile branding, and no spam emails that could raise questions. Even the language used on the site matters — it needs to be respectful and local.
Governments and laws
Some countries are trying to keep up. The UAE has updated its data protection laws. Saudi Arabia is working on its Personal Data Protection Law. Bahrain was actually the first GCC country to pass a full data protection law, modeled on Europe’s GDPR.
But the rules still vary a lot. What’s legal in one country can be a problem in another. That’s why platforms operating across borders need smart compliance strategies — and why users often rely on their own tools to stay safe.
What matters most to users
In short, people want:
- Control over their data
- Clear privacy settings
- No surprises
- Secure payments
- No unnecessary exposure
They want to feel that their choices, identities, and habits are respected — not tracked, sold, or leaked.
Privacy isn’t a luxury in the Middle East. It’s a basic expectation. Platforms that understand this — and build for it — are more likely to succeed. Whether it’s an app, a store, or a gaming site, trust starts with how you handle privacy.
