Social Media Platform UpScrolled Allegedly Blocked in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has reportedly restricted access to the rapidly emerging social media platform UpScrolled, a network widely recognized for its pro-Palestinian positioning and open-content philosophy. Although no official statement has been released by Saudi authorities so far, multiple user reports and technical monitoring services indicate that the platform has become inaccessible across parts of the kingdom. The alleged move has sparked immediate debate within global digital rights and technology communities, especially given UpScrolled’s positioning as an alternative to mainstream social media ecosystems. Launched in July 2025, the platform has experienced explosive global growth, surpassing five million users in under a year by offering features such as posts, reels, stories, messaging, and short-form video sharing. Founded by Palestinian-Jordanian-Australian entrepreneur Issam Hijazi, UpScrolled was developed with early backing from Tech For Palestine and promotes itself as a transparency-focused network free from shadowbanning, algorithmic bias, or monetized visibility systems. Hijazi has previously stated that the platform was created in response to concerns over content visibility during the Gaza conflict. Following rapid expansion in early 2026 and heightened user migration from mainstream apps, UpScrolled gained significant traction worldwide. If confirmed, the restriction would align with Saudi Arabia’s established approach to regulating digital platforms under its cyber laws and national security framework.