Saudi Arabia UAE Roblox restriction policies have come into force as both nations tighten rules on the popular gaming platform. The move follows similar bans and suspensions across other Gulf states, with regulators citing mounting child safety concerns.
Saudi Arabia’s Roblox Restrictions
Saudi Arabia’s General Commission for Audiovisual Media ordered Roblox to disable both text and voice chats. According to state broadcaster Al-Ekhbariya, the suspension is temporary while authorities develop stronger regulatory tools to ensure a safe environment.
Hattan Tawaili, head of the Electronic Games Department, emphasized that these measures are part of efforts to “strengthen a safe gaming environment.” Roblox confirmed compliance and pledged to expand Arabic-language moderation and improve oversight following consultations with Saudi authorities.
A 2024 report by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission showed Roblox was the second-most downloaded mobile game in Saudi Arabia, underscoring its influence among young users.
UAE’s Precautionary Measures
The UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority also announced new amendments for the platform. In cooperation with Roblox, the UAE has temporarily disabled some in-game communication features, particularly chat, to protect younger players.
Other measures include stronger Arabic-language content moderation, improved parental control tools, and the addition of safety features designed for children. These steps highlight how the UAE is aligning with other Gulf countries to safeguard minors in digital spaces.
Broader Gulf Roblox Restrictions
Kuwait’s Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority blocked Roblox in August 2024 after parental complaints about unsafe practices, exploitation, and harmful in-game behaviors. Qatar followed shortly after, citing concerns for children and adolescents. Oman had already confirmed its full ban earlier in June.
These restrictions reflect a broader regional stance on child online safety, with regulators insisting Roblox commit to stricter oversight before any reinstatement.
Roblox Under Scrutiny
The restrictions come at a time when Roblox faces global criticism. In the United States, Louisiana filed a lawsuit alleging the company facilitated child exploitation — claims Roblox rejected as “false.” Reports highlight that more than 13,000 exploitation cases linked to the platform were recorded in the US in 2023 alone.
According to The Guardian, 40% of Roblox’s 85 million users are under 13. By August 2025, the platform reported over 111 million daily active users, generating more than 6 billion chat messages daily. This scale underscores both the platform’s popularity and its safety challenges.
Global Context
The global gaming market continues its rapid growth, with over 3.4 billion players worldwide and an estimated value nearing $200 billion. Within this expanding market, Roblox remains a dominant player, offering interactive worlds, user-generated games, and real-time global connections.
Yet, the Saudi Arabia UAE Roblox restriction decision highlights how nations are prioritizing child protection over platform expansion. Stricter regulations, enhanced moderation, and stronger parental tools may set a new standard for how governments address online gaming safety.
