Qatar blocks Roblox: Why parents everywhere should pay attention to kids’ online safety
While Roblox is meant to be a game for children, it's not always a safe space for them.
Image: Ron Lach / Pexels
As a mom of a 12-year-old myself, I know the struggle is real when it comes to balancing screen time with safety.
My daughter loves Roblox and usually sticks to games like “Dress to Impress”, but even with our regular conversations about online safety, I still worry.
Predators online can be sly, and sometimes it feels like no amount of caution is enough.
That’s why the recent news from Qatar, where the government has blocked access to the wildly popular platform, struck such a chord.
On August 13, 2025, a “No Network” error became a familiar sight for millions of young players in Qatar.
The reason? A government block on the platform, reportedly spurred by an uproar from parents and online safety activists.
This action came after a wave of social media campaigns highlighting the risks of a platform where kids can be exposed to inappropriate content, interact with strangers, and face the threat of online predators.
The concerns voiced by Qatari authorities are not unique.
Roblox has faced similar scrutiny in countries like China, Turkey, and Oman.
At the heart of the issue is Roblox’s mix of user-generated content and social interaction.
While it fuels creativity and connection, it also opens the door to harmful experiences.
TikTok has further amplified these concerns, with viral videos from parents sharing unsettling encounters their children have had on the platform.
How to help keep kids safe on Roblox
So what can parents do? While you can’t monitor everything 24/7, here are a few simple steps that make a difference:
- Set parental controls: Use Roblox’s built-in safety settings to manage chat, filter content, and control spending.
- Play together: Sit with your child and explore their favourite games so you know what they’re engaging with.
- Teach online awareness: Keep reminding them never to share personal information, and to block or report anyone who makes them uncomfortable.
- Check activity: Review recent games, chat history, and friend lists to spot red flags early.
Qatar’s decision to block Roblox may seem extreme, but it’s also a wake-up call.
For parents everywhere, the takeaway is clear: staying involved, using available tools, and keeping open conversations going are the best ways to help our kids enjoy the digital playground safely.
IOL Lifestyle