Saudi Arabia has reportedly blocked access to UpScrolled, the fast-growing social media platform widely known for its pro-Palestinian stance. Technical reports and user complaints emerging over the past hours point to the restriction, though authorities have not issued an official confirmation.
The reported block has drawn quick attention across tech and digital rights communities. The interest stems largely from the platform’s rapid rise as an alternative to mainstream social networks. UpScrolled has positioned itself as a free-speech-forward space, attracting users frustrated by content moderation on major platforms.
UpScrolled launched in July 2025, less than a year ago. Since then, it has attracted more than five million users globally. That growth makes it one of the fastest-rising alternative social platforms in the digital space. The app supports text posts, photos, short-form videos, stories, and direct messaging, blending features familiar from TikTok and Instagram.
Palestinian-Jordanian-Australian entrepreneur Issam Hijazi founded the platform through his company. He received early support from Tech For Palestine, an incubator that funds technology initiatives backing the Palestinian cause. Hijazi has said he launched UpScrolled in response to what he described as overwhelming pro-Israel content on established platforms following the war in Gaza.
The platform markets itself as a network with no shadowbans, no algorithmic games, and no pay-to-play favoritism. According to Hijazi, UpScrolled removes only clearly illegal content, while treating political speech with transparency and equal treatment. That approach has resonated with activists, journalists, and users who accuse mainstream platforms of suppressing Palestinian voices.
UpScrolled saw explosive growth in early 2026. User numbers surged after an American investor group finalized a deal to buy TikTok’s US operations, triggering censorship fears among many users. The platform briefly ranked among the top free apps on Apple’s App Store, jumping from 40,000 users to over a million in a matter of days. That momentum carried it past the five million mark.
Saudi Arabia has a long history of internet restrictions. The kingdom has previously blocked apps and websites it deems noncompliant with local laws or harmful to national security. Authorities there also tightly monitor online and social media content. If confirmed, a block on UpScrolled would fit that broader pattern of state control over digital platforms.
