5 Best VPNs for Bahrain in 2024 for Privacy and Speed

Online freedom in Bahrain is limited, with the government fully controlling internet speed and availability. The country's entire internet is managed through one network — the Bahrain National Broadband Network (BNET), and ISPs use website-blocking software to restrict access. It's essential to use a powerful VPN to protect your online privacy.

After testing 87 VPNs, I've found only a few providers that are secure enough to keep you anonymous online without slowing down your connection. Additionally, the VPNs on my list have a global network of servers so that if you're visiting the country, you can still access the websites and services you need from back home (like news sites and banking apps).

ExpressVPN is my top choice for Bahrain. It has high-level security features and excellent speeds for fast and secure web browsing. You can try ExpressVPN in confidence (it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee). Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Bahrain in 2024

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Best VPNs for Country — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

Only a few VPNs are secure enough to protect your identity and online activity in Bahrain. If you're visiting the country, you'll also want a VPN with reliable servers worldwide to help you access the content you need, like e-banking services. With BNET controlling the country's internet speed, a VPN with fast servers and unlimited bandwidth is essential.

The VPNs on my list meet all these requirements and show excellent performance on my various tests. As a bonus, they're easy to use and come with money-back guarantees.

1. ExpressVPN — Powerful Security Features to Protect Your Privacy

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested November 2024

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs for privacy. Not only does it give you the option to pay for your subscription using a burner email account and Bitcoin, but it also runs its own encrypted DNS on every server. This means your data will never be seen by third parties because it never leaves the encrypted VPN tunnel. Plus, with its headquarters in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN genuinely sticks to its no-logs policy — the country doesn't adhere to any data-retention laws.

To further ensure your online safety and anonymity, ExpressVPN uses DNS/IPv6/WebRTC leak protection. On top of that, a kill switch (Network Lock) will automatically terminate your internet connection should the VPN unexpectedly drop. I didn't detect any leaks while testing ExpressVPN.

Your browsing activity and identity will be safe from spies, as ExpressVPN uses the leading standard encryption algorithm (AES 256-bit) — even the US government relies on this level of encryption to secure top-secret documentation. Moreover, with ExpressVPN's TrustedServer technology using RAM-only servers to completely wipe all traces of you with every server reboot, there's nothing for intruders to steal.

With ExpressVPN, you can choose the security protocol best suited to your VPN requirements (including OpenVPN, IPSec, and IKEv2). In addition, the VPN provides its own custom Lightway protocol, which is extremely fast and secure.

You can safely use ExpressVPN to help you access foreign news sites and e-commerce platforms with its 3,000 servers in 105 countries. I had no problems managing my US bank account while traveling in Bahrain. You'll also be able to Skype friends and family while visiting the country.

Of all the VPNs I tested, ExpressVPN is the fastest one. Just click the big power button, and the VPN's Smart Location feature will connect you to the closest available server. The VPN's impressive download speeds, plus P2P support and unlimited bandwidth, also make it ideal for torrenting.

Installing and setting up the VPN is straightforward. I was connected to a server and performed safe video calls in less than 5 minutes. Not only that, but you can use ExpressVPN on up to 8 devices simultaneously. The VPN provides dedicated apps for all major operating systems. With its Smart DNS feature (MediaStreamer), it also helps prevent ISP throttling on smart TVs and gaming consoles.

Try ExpressVPN for yourself and decide if it suits your needs. The VPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which I tested by requesting a refund after trying it out for 4 weeks. ExpressVPN's 24/7 customer support was super helpful, and I got my money back in 3 working days.

2. IPVanish — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Safeguard All Your Devices

Works With:

ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ More

Try IPVanish VPN >

www.ipvanish.com

IPVanish allows Unlimited simultaneous device connections. If you own a small business, you can protect all your company devices with one subscription. My team and I tested IPVanish on 17 devices — the VPN worked just as well when used on multiple devices as it does with 1. Plus, IPVanish is compatible with most operating systems. You can even install it on routers, Raspberry Pi, and Amazon Fire TV.

When you’re in a restrictive country like Bahrain, you can use IPVanish's OpenVPN Scramble feature. It will obfuscate your traffic, so no one will be able to tell you're using a VPN. Combined with the VPN's global network of 2,400 servers in 130 countries, this makes IPVanish great for browsing news sites when visiting Bahrain.

IPVanish owns and operates its entire server network and uses the unbreakable AES 256-bit encryption to guard your online activity against snoopers and hackers. Although the VPN is based in the US (which is part of the 5 Eyes Alliance), IPVanish adheres to a strict no-logs policy that clearly states it does not record any connection, traffic, or activity data. To further ensure your data won't accidentally get exposed, IPVanish provides a kill switch and DNS/IPv6 leak protection.

IPVanish servers are super fast for buffer-free streaming, regardless of the distance from your actual location. When you open the app, you'll immediately notice the Quick Connect screen with the Best Server option, which automatically connects to the fastest server.

Installing IPVanish is quick and easy. Its apps are intuitive enough for beginners, and it works with minimal configuration. If you need any assistance, the VPN's website offers step-by-step visual installation guides and 24/7 customer support.

Use IPVanish's 30-day money-back guarantee and try the VPN free for 30 days. I received a no-questions-asked refund within 5 working days.

3. CyberGhost — Beginner-Friendly VPN With Optimized Servers for Various Online Activities

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost is my top choice for beginners because of its clean and simple interface. After logging in and clicking the big power button, you'll automatically be connected to the fastest server for your location. You can also easily pick a server optimized for a specific online activity — streaming, gaming, or torrenting — in the left-hand menu. Customer support is available 24/7 via live chat and email if you get stuck.

I tested CyberGhost's torrent-optimized servers, and they delivered excellent speeds. Besides its optimized servers, CyberGhost has 11,690 servers in 100 countries, making it a great option to freely browse the web and open your local news sites and e-commerce platforms abroad.

Even though CyberGhost is easy to use, the VPN is packed full of high-end security features, like AES 256-bit encryption and automatic WiFi protection — the VPN launches as soon as your device detects a new public hotspot. Located in privacy-friendly Romania and following a zero-logs policy, CyberGhost won’t collect or share your personally identifiable information.

CyberGhost also includes an automatic kill switch and DNS/IPv6 leak protection. You can even block ads, trackers, and malware by activating CyberGhost's "block content" option. For added security, upgrade to the VPN's specialized NoSpy servers — only accessible to the VPN team to eliminate third-party interference.

With one subscription, you can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously. CyberGhost is even compatible with Amazon Fire TV and Android TV.

While CyberGhost's 1-month plans are a bit expensive, its long-term subscriptions are much more affordable and come with a lengthy 45-day money-back guarantee. Put CyberGhost's performance to the test and try it out during the guarantee period. I didn't experience any problems getting my money back.

4. Private Internet Access — Adjustable Security Settings for a Customized VPN Experience

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

Private Internet Access (PIA) lets you customize your security settings according to your needs. You can choose between AES 128-bit encryption (faster but less secure) or AES 256-bit encryption (slightly slower but more secure). The VPN also supports various security protocols — PPTP, OpenVPN, L2TP, IPsec, and WireGuard.

Your actual IP address remains hidden with PIA's proven no-logs policy, DNS/IP leak protection, and kill switch. While testing PIA, I was also pleased to see that its MACE feature blocks annoying ads and malware. As P2P sharing is allowed on all its servers and the VPN offers decent downloading speeds, PIA is also an excellent choice for remaining anonymous while torrenting.

The VPN’s extensive network of 29,650 servers in 91 countries makes e-banking safe and easy. You don't have to worry about being locked out of your bank account while visiting Bahrain. Sadly, the VPN doesn't work well with some streaming platforms — my UK team reported it didn't work with BBC iPlayer. But if you’re in a supported location, PIA works with other streaming services, like Netflix and Amazon Prime.

Even though PIA offers various security options, first-time users can start straight away with its preconfigured settings. The VPN can also be used on up to Unlimited devices at the same time and works with all popular operating systems, including Firestick devices. So, you can secure all your devices at home with only 1 subscription.

You can try PIA using it's 30-day money-back guarantee and claim a refund if you're not satisfied.

5. PrivateVPN — Reliably Fast Servers to Avoid Speed Throttling

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try PrivateVPN >

www.privatevpn.com

Use PrivateVPN's unlimited bandwidth and fast servers to bypass ISPs throttling your speed. Because the VPN buys its Internet capacity directly from the IP transit provider, you get the fastest connection speeds possible. When I tested PrivateVPN servers far away in North America, I barely noticed a speed reduction. Even after connecting a maximum of 10 devices, I had no delays browsing websites and playing online games.

Although the VPN only has 200 servers, its network is spread across 63 countries, and I have never encountered overcrowded servers. Additionally, PrivateVPN's Stealth Mode masks your VPN traffic as regular web traffic, which is beneficial for restrictive networks.

PrivateVPN safeguards your online activity with AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch (available for Windows, Android, and Mac), and DNS/IPv6/WebRTC leak protection. You also have the option to choose which security protocol you want to implement — OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, IKEv2, and IPSec.

To prevent hackers from accessing your past or future browsing activities, PrivateVPN uses Perfect Forward Secrecy. This feature provides you with a unique encryption key for every new online session.

While the VPN's headquarters are located in Sweden, which falls under the jurisdiction of the 14-Eyes Alliance, there is no need to be concerned about your privacy. This is because PrivateVPN adheres to a stringent no-logs policy, meaning they do not store any personal information, except for your email address that is collected during the sign-up process.

PrivateVPN's live chat support is available 22 hours a day and consists of a team of developers who can help you with any issue. Feel free to try all PrivateVPN features for 30 days using its money-back guarantee.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Bahrain

Use my below testing criteria to help you find the best VPN for your situation:

• Strong security and privacy features. To keep your online data protected, choose a VPN with a strict no-logs policy and AES 256-bit encryption. Also prevent accidental data exposure with a VPN that has a kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection.
• Global server coverage. Some websites and services are blocked in Bahrain. When you visit the country and want to unblock services and apps you usually access at home, like VoIP, you need a VPN with a global network.
• Fast connections. Using any VPN will slightly slow down your internet connection due to the encryption. However, if your ISP is intentionally throttling your speed, a VPN (like the ones on my list) can overcome this, and you can stream, game, and browse without interruption.
• Great user experience. Although VPNs use advanced technology and some complex methods for guarding your data and identity, using them shouldn't be rocket science. All the VPNs on this list are easy to install and use.
• Proven money-back guarantee. Finding the right VPN can be complicated. Choosing a VPN with a money-back guarantee gives you confidence that you can return it for a full refund if you're not 100% happy.

FAQs on VPNs in Bahrain

Are VPNs legal in Bahrain?

Yes, you can legally use a VPN in Bahrain and will need it for secure web browsing. You might want to download a VPN before entering Bahrain, as I found that some VPN websites are blocked in the country. I recommend ExpressVPN, as it's highly reliable for safe online activity and offers the most advanced security features to help keep your identity and data private.

However, some countries (like Russia and China) restrict or ban VPN use. So make sure you're up to date on the latest rules and regulations about VPNs in your location, as they often change.

Why do you need a VPN for security in Bahrain?

A VPN allows you to stay anonymous online and freely access the internet. Many websites and services are blocked, including messaging apps, social media platforms, and news sites (like Telegram, Skype, Viber, and Al Jazeera). The government is known to use spyware to monitor its citizens, and there have been cases of citizens getting fined or even arrested for something they've posted online. If you want your online activity to remain private while in Bahrain, using a VPN is a must. I suggest using a VPN with a strict no-logs policy and AES 256-bit encryption.

Can you use a free VPN for Bahrain?

I would strongly advise against using a free VPN for Bahrain. Some free VPNs put your data at risk by selling it to third-party advertisers. Also, most free VPNs limit features (like server availability and security) so that you are forced to subscribe to their paid versions. If you're looking for an affordable VPN, you might want to choose a VPN with a money-back guarantee so you can try all its features risk-free.

The Bottom Line

To protect your data from prying eyes in Bahrain, you need a VPN with robust security features that won’t collect or share personally identifiable information. Plus, If you want fast, unrestricted access to the internet while visiting Bahrain, you need a VPN with many servers worldwide.

I recommend ExpressVPN, as it’s the fastest and most secure VPN I’ve tested. You can try ExpressVPN with confidence (it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee).

To summarize, here are the best VPNs for Bahrain

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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