First, thanks to advanced technology, mobile apps have become the superior form of digital communication. As we know that technology plays the most crucial role in a business’s overall success, it can provide the resources of access on-demand to information and solutions.
Building a mobile app can be a significant investment. The cost to build a mobile app in UAE can differ depending on factors like the app’s complexity, the development team’s experience and location, and the platform on which the app is developed.
The mobile app development cost in Dubai can be divided into two parts:
- Front end
- Back end
The front end includes the user interface and the app’s design; on the other hand, the back end includes the server, database, and other technical aspects. The cost of developing the front and back end can differ, depending on the app’s functionality and features.
For a basic mobile app with a simple design and limited features, the development cost in the UAE can range from $5,000 to $10,000. However, if the app is more complex and requires advanced features like artificial intelligence, machine learning, or virtual reality, the development cost can exceed $100,000.
Did you know that more people are downloading mobile apps? A report says that in 2022, there was a 23% increase in app downloads. It is only going to keep going up in the next few years. The UAE, a really big economy, is expected to have over 221 million app downloads by 2027.
If you are considering starting your own business, this is a great chance to make an app that people will love. In this post, we will discuss the cost of mobile app development in the UAE, including the factors that impact the cost and the types of mobile apps available.
Table of Contents
Understanding How Much Does it Cost to Build a Basic Mobile App?
Mobile apps have become an important part of modern-day businesses in the UAE, performing as a powerful tool for customer engagement and business growth. However, creating a mobile app can be a significant investment for businesses in terms of time and money.
Before moving into the mobile app development cost, let’s highlight why it matters to UAE businesses. Businesses need to stay competitive, and a well-designed mobile app can significantly increase customer retention and acquisition.
Moreover, mobile app development companies are increasingly focused on internal business operations, like logistics management, employee management, and sales tracking. Investing in mobile app development can help businesses streamline their operations, reduce costs, and increase profits.
Types of Mobile Apps and Their Associated Costs
There are various types of mobile apps, each with advantages and disadvantages. The type of app chosen will significantly impact the development cost.
1. Native Mobile Apps
It is built specifically for a single operating system like iOS or Android. These apps are designed to take advantage of the platform’s full functionality and provide better performance. Developing a native app is typically more expensive than developing other types of apps.
2. Hybrid Mobile Apps
It uses web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These apps run within a native container, allowing them to access the device’s functionality. Hybrid apps are less expensive to develop than native apps but may have performance issues.
3. Web Apps
Web apps are built using web technologies and run on web browsers. These apps are less expensive to develop than both native and hybrid apps. However, they lack some of the functionality native and hybrid apps offer.
Determine the Cost to Build a Mobile App in UAE
Mobile applications have revolutionized the digital world recently, and UAE is no exception. With a growing number of smartphone users in the country, businesses are investing heavily in developing mobile apps that offer unique customer experiences. Mobile app development services in UAE can give businesses an edge over their competitors and help them stay connected with their customers anytime, anywhere.
Let’s explore the approx. cost to build a mobile app in UAE.
| Type of Application | App Development cost | Timeline |
| Basic App | > AED 15,000 | 1 month |
| Data-driven App | AED 15,000+ | 1 – 1.5 months |
| Authentication App | AED 60,000+ | 3 – 6 months |
| Social Networking App | AED 60,000 – AED 3000,000+ | 3 – 6 up to 9+ months |
| E-commerce App | AED 60,000 – AED 300,000+ | 3 – 6 up to 9+ months |
| On-demand App | AED 70,000 – AED 100,000+ (basic, per platform) | 5 – 7+ months |
| Marketplace App (multilevel web platform) | AED 300,000+ | 9+ months |
| IoT & Hardware App | AED 60,000+ | 3 – 6 months |
| AR/VR App | AED 165,262.50+ | 9+ months |
Factors Affecting the Cost to Build a Mobile App in UAE
The cost to build a mobile app in UAE depends on various factors, such as platform and technology selection, features and functionality, user interface, design, integration, and security.
Let’s understand the one by one!
1. Platform Selection
Mobile app development company in Dubai can choose to develop their mobile app for different platforms such as iOS, Android, or both. However, developing an application for a single platform is typically less expensive than developing one for both platforms. However, businesses need to consider their target audience and the platform’s market share before deciding.
| Platform Type | Development time | Global Market share | Publishing charges |
| Android | More development time because of higher device complexity | 87% | One-time payment of $25 for publishing the app |
| iOS | 40% less complex as compared to Android apps thus, require less time for development | 13% | $99 annual payment for publishing apps on the App Store |
2. App Features and Complexity
The more interesting features and functionalities an app has, the more expensive it tends to be. Features like in-app purchases, push notifications, and third-party integrations can add to development costs. App developers may also charge more for custom features not readily available in standard app development frameworks.
| Mobile App Type | The estimated average cost of mobile app development | Time Frame |
| Simple App | $40,000 to $60,000 | 3 to 6 months |
| Moderately Complex App | $60,000 to $100,000 | 6 to 8 months |
| Highly Complex App | $100,000 to $300,000 | 9+ months |
3. Design and User Experience
An app’s design and user experience are essential factors in its success. A well-designed app with an intuitive user interface can help retain and attract new users. While a poorly designed app may drive users away. Investing in design and user experience can be expensive, but it can significantly impact an app’s success.
Essential factors that affect the cost of the UI/UX design of the app include:
- Visual elements
- Color psychology
- Typography
- Content writing
- Branding
- Button placements
- UI optimization
- Portrait or landscape mode
4. Development Team Size
You can hire mobile app developers (a freelancer), a whole team that works for the app company (in-house), or a different company altogether (outsourcing). Each one has good things and bad things about it. Let’s take a closer look!
| Team Type | Pros | Cons |
| In-House Team | ● Better communication
● Complete transparency |
Higher rate of development
● Full stack developer = Approx $100,000 per year. ● Designer = $90,000 per year ● iOS or Android Developer = $80,000 per year. |
| Freelancers | ● Cheapest method for app development
● Power to dictate prices |
● No accountability
● Less expertise ● Less transparency |
| Outsourcing | ● Optimized costs of development
● Break-Free communication process ● Timely delivery ● Adherence to guidelines ● Easy Accountability |
● Loss of direct control over a project
● Communication barriers ● Risk of intellectual property theft or data breaches |
5. Location of the App
The location of the Android app development company also affects the cost to build a mobile app in UAE. For instance, the hourly rate of development in areas like Asia is comparatively less than in the UAE, UK, or US. Look at the approximation rate of development as per different regions:
| Region | Hourly Rate of Development |
| UAE | $60-$65 |
| US | $95-$100 |
| Eastern Europe | $50-$55 |
| Australia | $70-$90 |
| Asia | $25-$40 |
| Western Europe | $80-$90 |
6. Maintenance
Maintaining a mobile app is crucial in ensuring its success and continued usage among its target audience. This process involves regular updates to fix bugs, remove glitches, and improve overall functionality to maintain user satisfaction and engagement.
In addition, if you want to add new specialties to your app or improve it, that costs money too. So, ensure you take good care of your app and keep it up to date with the latest technology.
7. Tech Stack
The tech stack of a mobile app is a crucial aspect of its development. It typically comprises the programming languages, frameworks, libraries, and tools used to create the app’s front and backend architecture.
Have a quick look at the below
| Type | Programming Language | Tools | Framework |
| Android Apps | ● Java
● Kotlin |
Android Studio | ● Jetpack compose
● Android UI |
| iOS Apps | ● Objective-C
● Swift |
Xcode
App code |
● UI kit
● SwiftUI |
8. Feature List & Functionality
One of the most essential factors that can help you determine the cost to build a mobile app in UAE is the features of the app. If you add more features associated with the app, the cost will increase. A well-defined feature set that can set it apart from the rest is necessary to ensure that an app achieves traction in the market.
| App Type | Common Features |
| Simple app | ● Sign up
● User login ● Dashboard ● Profile editing ● Search bar ● Notifications ● Chat |
| Medium complexity mobile app | ● Social media integration
● In-app purchases ● Location ● Payment gateway ● Security protocol implementation |
| High complexity mobile app | ● All the native features
● Data synchronization ● Multiple payment gateways ● In-app calls ● Video calls ● Streaming capabilities ● 24×7 customer service |
How Much Does it Cost to Pay Someone to Build an App?
The average cost to build mobile app in UAE depends on different factors like the type of app and the development team’s skills and experience.
1. Integration with Third-Party Services
Integrating an app with third-party services, including social media platforms, payment gateways, or location-based services, can be costly. However, third-party integrations can improve the app’s functionality and user experience. Many on-demand app development company offer excellent services for your business growth.
- Push notifications
- Geolocation
- Payment gateways
- Google Analytics
- Google Maps
2. Marketing Costs
These costs are the total money needed to promote the application on various platforms. The app marketing budget includes the charges for the following:
- App store optimization
- Google reviews
- Ad promotion with ads
- Social platform
3. Backend Server Costs
To ensure all the information you put into an app is saved and can be accessed from different devices, you need a backend server. This is like the brain of the app that keeps everything organized. But, setting up this server can cost more money and time for the people making the app.
- Storing the data online
- Allowing communication with other users
- Syncing the data with the cloud
- Upload images, videos, and more
Infrastructure, support, data security, hosting, development license, and management are other factors to consider to building mobile app development.
Choosing the Right Mobile App Development Company in UAE
If you plan to build a mobile app in UAE, choosing the right app development company is essential. However, with so many companies in the market, it can be challenging to find the right one.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a mobile app development company in UAE:
- Experience: Look for a company that has prior experience in developing apps similar to yours. Check their portfolio to see the variety of apps they have developed, their quality and their success rate.
- Expertise: Ensure that the company’s developers are skilled in the technologies and platforms you want to use for your app. Check if they have expertise in both iOS and Android platforms.
- Communication: Choose a company with good communication skills that keeps you informed of every step of the development process.
- Cost: While cost is essential, it shouldn’t be the only factor. Choose a company that provides excellent value for money and delivers high-quality results.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Mobile App Development Company
Before hiring a mobile app development company, one must ask some questions to ensure they have the essential skills, experience, and tools needed for your specific project.
- Can you offer references or case studies of previous app development projects?
- What is your app development process, and how do you handle changes in requirements?
- Can you provide a cost breakdown, including development, testing, and ongoing maintenance costs?
- What is your timeline for developing and launching the app?
- Can you provide post-launch support and maintenance services?
Strategies to Reduce the Cost to Build Mobile App in UAE
Mobile app development can be expensive, but there are some approaches to reduce the costs without compromising the app’s quality. Here are a few cost-saving strategies:
- Hybrid App Development
- Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
- Outsourcing and Offshoring Mobile App Development
1. Hybrid App Development
It allows you to develop an app that can run on numerous platforms, such as iOS and Android, using a single codebase. This can significantly reduce development costs, as you don’t need to develop separate apps for each platform.
2. Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
Developing an MVP allows you to introduce an app with basic features and functionalities that can be further improved in later versions. This method helps you test the market and get user feedback before investing in developing more advanced features, which can significantly reduce development costs.
3. Outsourcing and Offshoring Mobile App Development
Outsourcing and offshoring mobile app development to countries such as India, the Philippines, or Eastern Europe can significantly reduce development costs. However, it is essential to select a reliable and experienced outsourcing company to ensure the quality and timely delivery of the app
Future Trends in Mobile App Development and Costs in UAE
Modern technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning are transforming the mobile app development landscape and will likely impact the costs associated with app development. Modern technologies like Chatbots, AR/VR, and Blockchain are becoming famous in the app development industry. These technologies can improve user experiences, but they can also increase the cost of app development.
AI and Machine Learning can help developers automate certain tasks like testing and quality assurance, significantly reducing app development costs. However, developing apps incorporating AI and Machine Learning can be complex and require specialized skills, increasing costs.
Final Words
Choosing the right app development company and implementing cost-saving strategies can help reduce the costs associated with mobile app development in UAE. Additionally, staying up to date with emerging technologies and trends can help businesses to plan and budget for future app development costs.
The cost to build a mobile app in UAE is influenced by several factors, including platform, features, user interface, and design. While cost is an important consideration, businesses should also focus on developing quality apps that meet the needs of their target audience.
By carefully selecting a mobile app development company, considering cost-saving strategies, and keeping up with emerging trends in mobile app development, businesses in the UAE can create successful mobile apps that drive growth and increase revenue.
FAQ: Cost to Build a Mobile App in UAE
1. How much does it cost to build a basic mobile app?
The average cost of building a mobile app in the UAE ranges from AED 50,000 to AED 500,000. However, the cost could vary depending on several factors, such as the app’s complexity, the platform used, and the mobile app development company hired.
2. How do I choose the right mobile app development company in the UAE?
Choosing the right mobile app development company in the UAE involves several factors, such as experience, reputation, portfolio, and pricing. Business owners should research different companies, read reviews, and ask for references before deciding.
3. What are some cost-saving strategies for mobile app development in the UAE?
Businesses can use several strategies to reduce the cost of mobile app development in the UAE. These strategies include using hybrid app development, building a minimum viable product (MVP), and outsourcing or offshoring mobile app development.
4. What are some emerging trends in mobile app development in the UAE?
Some emerging trends in mobile app development in the UAE include the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, the integration of augmented reality and virtual reality, and the adoption of blockchain technology. By keeping up with these latest trends, businesses can develop efficient, engaging, and relevant apps.