Jahez has emerged as one of Saudi Arabia’s most successful food delivery platforms, boasting a robust digital infrastructure that serves millions of users. With the growing demand for hyperlocal delivery solutions in the Middle East and beyond, startups and enterprises alike are exploring how to replicate Jahez’s success and understand the cost to build an app like Jahez.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Jahez app development cost, including core features, monetization strategies, ongoing expenses, and different development models. Whether you’re launching a new startup or scaling an existing business, this comprehensive guide will help you align your product vision with your budget and better estimate your food delivery app development cost.
Why Build a app like jahez?
Building a Jahez-like app is a smart move in today’s digital-first food economy. Here’s why:
High Market Demand: Food delivery is booming, with billions in global revenue and growing user adoption.
Multiple Revenue Streams: Earn through delivery fees, commissions, ads, and premium plans.
Scalable Model: Easily expand to groceries, pharmacy, or parcel delivery under one platform.
Strong User Engagement: Features like real-time tracking and loyalty rewards drive retention.
Data-Driven Growth: Gain insights on user behavior to optimize marketing and operations.
Key Features in an App Like Jahez
A successful Jahez clone should cater to four key stakeholders: users, delivery partners, restaurants, and administrators. Here’s how to structure it:
A robust food delivery platform comprises four key components: the customer app, delivery agent app, restaurant partner panel, and admin dashboard. The customer app allows users to sign up via email, mobile, or social media, track orders in real time using GPS, choose from multiple payment options, and access features like order history, ratings, reviews, and an AI chatbot for instant support. The delivery agent app provides real-time order notifications, optimized GPS routes, an earnings dashboard, and status toggles to manage availability.
The restaurant partner panel enables restaurants to manage menus, accept or decline orders, view detailed business analytics, and run promotions or loyalty programs. The admin dashboard gives platform owners complete control over users and partners, access to reports and analytics, commission settings, and a notification system.
A. Customer App
- User sign-up/login (email, mobile, social)
- Real-time GPS tracking
- Multiple payment methods
- Ratings & reviews
- Order history & reorder
- AI Chatbot for support
B. Delivery Agent App
- Order push notifications
- GPS route optimization
- Earnings dashboard
- Status toggles (available/on-delivery)
C. Restaurant Partner Panel
- Menu management
- Accept/decline orders
- Business analytics
- Promotions & loyalty programs
D. Admin Dashboard
- User/partner management
- Reports & analytics
- Commission control
- Notification module
Explore More – How much does it cost to build a food delivery app like Uber Eats?
Cost Breakdown by App Complexity
Let’s break down the cost estimate for a Jahez-style app in USD based on the app’s complexity:
| Tier | Basic MVP | Mid-Level | Full-Scale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $20K – $30K | $30K – $40K | $40K – $60K+ |
| Timeline | 3–4 months | 5–8 months | 9–12 months |
| Core Features |
|
|
|
| Compliance | KYC basic (manual) |
|
|
| Integrations | 1 Payment API |
|
|
| Security | Standard encryption | Tokenization |
|
| AI/Analytics | — |
|
|
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Factors Influencing the Development Cost
The cost to build an app like Jahez is not a one-size-fits-all. It varies based on multiple factors:
App Complexity: The more features and user flows your app includes (like real-time chat, video calls, or multi-language support), the higher the development cost will be.
Development Location: Rates vary widely based on geography. For example, developers in India may charge around $20/hour, while those in the U.S. may charge up to $120/hour.
UI/UX Design: Custom, interactive, or animated interfaces increase both design time and cost, especially if you prioritize brand uniqueness.
Backend Infrastructure: Robust backends powered by scalable servers or cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure add significantly to the cost.
Third-Party Integrations: Integrating APIs like Google Maps, payment gateways (Stripe, PayPal), or AI chatbots introduces licensing and development expenses.
Platforms (iOS, Android, Web): Supporting multiple platforms increases development time, testing scope, and overall budget.
Security Requirements: If your app needs features like data encryption, GDPR compliance, or secure user authentication, expect higher costs due to extra development and auditing.
Maintenance & Updates: Post-launch support, bug fixes, OS updates, and feature improvements should be factored in as ongoing costs.
Technology Stack: Using native technologies (Swift for iOS, Kotlin for Android) generally costs more than cross-platform tools like Flutter or React Native.
Testing & QA: Rigorous manual and automated testing ensures app stability but also adds to timelines and costs.
Tech Stack Required for an App Like Jahez
The right technology stack ensures your app is scalable, secure, and high-performing.
1. Frontend Technologies
Flutter
React Native (Ideal for cross-platform mobile app development)
2. Backend Technologies
Node.js
Python (Powerful for handling business logic and API integrations)
3. Database Options
MongoDB
PostgreSQL (Support for both structured and flexible data storage)
4. Payment Gateways & APIs
Stripe
Razorpay
Tabby API (Facilitate seamless checkout and split payments)
5. KYC/AML Verification Tools
Onfido
ShuftiPro (Used for automated identity checks and compliance requirements)
Monetization Strategy for a Jahez App
Make your Klarna clone app a profitable venture by implementing a diverse Klarna revenue model. Here are the key ways to generate consistent BNPL app income
1. Commission from Restaurants (15–30% per order)
Apps like Jahez charge partner restaurants a commission on every order placed through the platform. This becomes a major revenue stream and is often structured as a percentage of the total bill. The better visibility and user base the app has, the higher the commission that can be negotiated.
2. Delivery Charges (Fixed or Distance-Based)
Users are charged a delivery fee that can be either a flat rate or calculated based on the distance between the restaurant and the user. This model also allows for surge pricing during peak hours, which further increases revenue.
3. Subscription Plans (Premium Offers for Users)
Premium plans can be offered to users that unlock benefits like zero delivery fees, exclusive discounts, or priority support. This ensures recurring revenue and boosts user retention.
4. Ad Listings (Featured Restaurants on Top)
Restaurants can pay to be listed at the top of search results or to appear in a featured carousel. This provides them with greater visibility, especially during high-traffic times like lunch and dinner.
5. In-App Ads (Google AdMob or Native Banner Ads)
In-app advertising through platforms like Google AdMob can be integrated to show relevant food or delivery-related ads. Native banner ads can also be displayed in non-intrusive areas of the app.
How to Choose the Right Development Partner
Selecting the right app development partner is one of the most critical decisions that will determine the success of your Jahez-like app. Here’s what you should evaluate:
Relevant Experience: Select a team with a proven track record in food delivery or on-demand app development.
End-to-End Services: Go for an agency that handles everything — design, development, testing, and maintenance.
Modern Tech Stack: Ensure they use scalable technologies like Flutter, Node.js, Firebase, and AWS.
Clear Communication: Look for partners offering regular updates, timelines, and access to tools like Jira or Trello.
Post-Launch Support: Ensure ongoing support for bug fixes, updates, and OS compatibility.
Client Feedback: Check reviews on Clutch or GoodFirms and speak to past clients.
Legal Safety: Demand proper NDAs and full IP rights for your project.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Building a Jahez-like food delivery app is a lucrative venture if executed with careful planning and scalability in mind. While the upfront investment may seem high, the market opportunity and multiple monetization models can offer exceptional ROI. To ensure success:
- Choose the right development team
- Prioritize user experience
- Start with an MVP and scale
Want to build a Jahez-like app? Contact SDLC Corp today to get a free quote.
FAQ'S
How Much Does It Cost to Build an App Like Jahez?
Typically, the cost ranges from $20,000 to $60,000+, depending on your app’s complexity, feature set, and desired platform scalability
What Tech Stack Is Best for Food Delivery Apps?
A reliable stack includes React Native or Flutter for cross-platform UI, Node.js for the backend, Firebase for real-time updates and notifications, and AWS for scalable cloud hosting.
How Long Does It Take to Develop a Jahez Clone?
A fully functional food delivery app may take 5 to 12 months, covering planning, UI/UX, development, testing, and deployment phases.
Is It Better to Outsource Development?
Yes, outsourcing can reduce costs by 30–50% and gives you access to a wide pool of experienced global developers and specialized agencies.
Can I Launch Only in One City First?
Absolutely. Launching in one city with an MVP allows you to test user response, iterate based on feedback, and fine-tune before wider expansion.
How Can I Reduce App Development Cost?
Build an MVP, use third-party APIs, and hire offshore fintech developers to cut costs.
How Can I Monetize the App From Day One?
Start earning from day one through commission on orders, delivery fees, and even subscription models or promotional slots for partner restaurants.
What Is the Best Way to Retain Users?
Offer personalized deals, loyalty rewards, and referral bonuses to keep users engaged and build long-term app loyalty.
