GCC Mobile App Development Market Research Report By Platform (IOS, Android) and By Application (E-commerce, Banking, Entertainment)- Forecast to 2035

GCC Mobile App Development Market Overview

As per MRFR analysis, the GCC Mobile App Development Market Size was estimated at 1.04 (USD Billion) in 2023.The GCC Mobile App Development Market Industry is expected to grow from 1.35(USD Billion) in 2024 to 10.45 (USD Billion) by 2035. The GCC Mobile App Development Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 20.448% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035)

Key GCC Mobile App Development Market Trends Highlighted

Many important market factors are driving notable increases in the GCC Mobile App Development Market. Demand for creative mobile apps is driven by growing smartphone penetration and young population in nations like UAE and Saudi Arabia. Promoting digital transformation projects, governments in the area are also matching their policies with ambitions like Saudi Vision 2030 and Dubai's Smart City project. Mobile app developers find a conducive atmosphere thanks to their dedication to technical development. Particularly with the increased need for mobile solutions resulting from recent worldwide events, opportunities in industries such as e-commerce and health technology are becoming clear.

GCC companies are concentrating more and more on creating customized apps to improve consumer involvement and simplify processes. Especially remarkable is the emergence of fintech applications because established banks want to enhance their digital service offerings, and startups abound in the area. Trends include the incorporation of cutting-edge technology like artificial intelligence and machine learning in mobile apps have gained popularity recently. GCC developers are gradually using these technologies to enhance user experiences and tailor offerings. Furthermore, reflecting the varied population of the GCC, the emphasis on local languages and culture in app design is starting to take the front stage.

This progress is further driven by growing cooperation among digital firms, academic institutions, and government agencies, therefore guaranteeing the area stays on the leading edge in mobile app development.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

GCC Mobile App Development Market Drivers

Rapid Digitization Across GCC Countries

The GCC Mobile App Development Market Industry is currently experiencing unprecedented growth driven by the rapid digitization initiatives taken by various governments in the region. For instance, the UAE's government has made substantial investments in digital infrastructure, with plans to allocate 20 billion USD to enhance digital capabilities in the next five years. Such investments are expected to create a conducive environment for mobile application developers, with industries increasingly adopting mobile solutions for efficiency and customer engagement.

Furthermore, countries like Saudi Arabia are prioritizing digital transformation as part of their Vision 2030 strategy, aiming to boost digital economy contributions to GDP to 3% by 2030. This focus on digital initiatives not only enhances overall market growth but also paves the way for innovative mobile app solutions tailored to local needs, thus propelling the GCC Mobile App Development Market forward.

Increasing Smartphone Penetration

Elevating smartphone usage across the GCC region plays a significant role in driving the growth of the GCC Mobile App Development Market Industry. With smartphone penetration rates projected to reach 90% in countries like Qatar and the UAE by the end of 2023, the demand for mobile applications is set to rise sharply. Major telecommunications companies, such as Etisalat and STC, have reported significant increases in their customer bases, correlating with higher app usage.

Additionally, the engagement metrics indicate that Saudi Arabia experienced a 75% rise in mobile application downloads in the last year alone, showcasing the growing reliance on mobile technology. Such statistics underline how expanding smartphone adoption fuels increments in both consumer demand and developer opportunities in the GCC.

Growing E-commerce Sector

The booming e-commerce sector within the GCC has emerged as a key driver for the GCC Mobile App Development Market Industry. According to regional reports, the e-commerce market in the GCC is expected to surpass 40 billion USD by 2025, reflecting a significant growth trajectory. Companies like Souq.com and Noon.com have expanded their digital platforms, requiring robust mobile applications to enhance user experiences and optimize service delivery.

This trend is exemplified by a 50% increase in mobile shopping app downloads across the region since 2021. As mobile commerce becomes the preferred shopping method among consumers, app developers are increasingly motivated to create innovative solutions that meet the growing demands of e-commerce platforms, hence stimulating overall market growth.

Supportive Government Regulations

Supportive regulations and initiatives set forth by GCC governments have further propelled the GCC Mobile App Development Market Industry. With countries like Bahrain implementing favorable policies for technology startups, such as tax exemptions and funding opportunities, the environment for mobile app innovation has significantly improved. The introduction of regulations encouraging foreign direct investment (FDI) in tech, seen in Saudi Arabia's new foreign investment law, allows for increased collaboration and knowledge transfer among local developers and international tech firms.

Additionally, according to the Digital Economy Report, regulatory frameworks in 2022 were found to enhance the overall business climate for mobile app developers by up to 20%. These pro-innovation policies not only attract investment but also foster a vibrant ecosystem for app development, indicating a robust framework for future market expansion.

GCC Mobile App Development Market Segment Insights

Mobile App Development Market Platform Insights

The Platform segment of the GCC Mobile App Development Market serves as a critical avenue for growth and innovation, particularly within the rapidly evolving digital landscape of the region. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in mobile device penetration rates across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This rise reflects the growing consumer preference for mobile applications as essential tools for communication, commerce, and entertainment. The market is shaped significantly by two dominant platforms: iOS and Android, each contributing uniquely to the mobile app ecosystem.

Android has emerged as a key player, capturing a substantial user base due to its affordability, wide-ranging device options, and customization capabilities, making it particularly appealing in a diverse market such as the GCC, where users seek personalized digital experiences. Conversely, iOS platforms tend to excel in terms of user engagement and spending, as they attract consumers with higher disposable incomes who are willing to invest in premium applications and services. This dichotomy highlights the varying strategies developers may employ; while some may focus on extensive reach via Android, others may capitalize on the lucrative opportunities presented by the affluent iOS user base.

Furthermore, the GCC region's increasing investment in digital infrastructure and government initiatives aimed at fostering a tech-savvy society create favorable conditions for app developers. Such investments can enable developers to harness advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, for more sophisticated app functionalities. This dynamic has led to an environment ripe for innovation, as businesses strive to cater to the diverse preferences of consumers across the GCC. As the market matures, challenges such as ensuring data security and navigating regulatory frameworks will demand strategic attention from developers.

Nonetheless, the accelerating shift towards mobile-first strategies among businesses across sectors presents significant opportunities for growth within the Platform segment of the GCC Mobile App Development Market. As digital adoption continues to penetrate traditional industries, the importance of both iOS and Android apps in building customer loyalty and enhancing user experiences will remain paramount, underscoring their vital roles in shaping the future trajectory of the market.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Mobile App Development Market Application Insights

The Application segment of the GCC Mobile App Development Market has shown notable potential, reflecting the increasing reliance on mobile applications in daily life. This segment is critical as it encompasses various industries including E-commerce, Banking, and Entertainment, each contributing significantly to the market's growth. E-commerce has emerged as a dominant force, driven by consumer demand for seamless shopping experiences and the rise of digital payment systems within the region. Similarly, the Banking sector is rapidly adopting mobile technology, improving customer engagement and transaction efficiency through innovative banking apps that enhance user convenience and security.

The Entertainment sector leverages mobile applications to deliver streaming services, games, and interactive content, appealing to the region's youthful demographic and their inclination toward digital entertainment platforms. These industries not only showcase the versatility of mobile applications but also highlight their impact on the GCC economy, as evidenced by the ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting digital transformation within various sectors. The sub-segments collectively demonstrate a growing trend toward personalization and user-centric features, indicating strong future growth opportunities driven by evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements.

GCC Mobile App Development Market Key Players and Competitive Insights

The GCC Mobile App Development Market has seen a significant evolution, characterized by an increasing demand for innovative and user-friendly applications. The competitive landscape is dominated by several players who are striving to leverage cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance the mobile experience for users. In this dynamic marketplace, various service providers showcase their capabilities in designing, developing, and deploying mobile applications tailored to diverse client needs across industries such as healthcare, finance, and retail. The growth of digital transformation initiatives and rising smartphone penetration have further intensified the competition, enabling new entrants to emerge alongside established companies.

Cappasity offers a unique strength within the GCC Mobile App Development Market by providing innovative solutions that focus on enhancing the customer experience through immersive technologies. Their expertise in 3D visualization and augmented reality sets them apart from other developers, positioning Cappasity as an ideal partner for businesses looking to engage users in more interactive ways. With a focus on delivering high-quality and visually appealing apps, the company has carved a niche for itself, particularly in sectors like e-commerce and real estate, where visual content significantly influences purchasing decisions. Cappasity's ability to integrate advanced technology into user-friendly applications has contributed to its competitive edge in the GCC region, appealing to a growing base of enterprises keen on utilizing cutting-edge solutions to attract and retain customers.

Gaditek has established a robust presence in the GCC Mobile App Development Market by focusing on creating scalable and performance-driven applications that cater to various business needs. The company offers a range of services, including app design, development, and digital marketing, enabling businesses to expand their reach and enhance user engagement across multiple platforms. Gaditek’s strengths lie in its agile development methodologies, which allow for rapid deployment and adaptation to market trends. Additionally, their commitment to quality and security has garnered trust among clients, highlighting their reliability in the competitive mobile application landscape. Recent strategic partnerships and the potential for mergers and acquisitions further indicate Gaditek's ambition to strengthen its market position in the region, thereby fostering innovation and delivering value-added services tailored to GCC market demands.

Key Companies in the GCC Mobile App Development Market Include

• Cappasity


• Gaditek


• Izdihar


• Nabta Health


• MRSOOL


• AppLabs


• Softech


• Yamsafer


• Jeddah Apps


• O4Networks


• Dahab


• MobiDev


• Fahim


• Akhbarak


• NourTech

GCC Mobile App Development Market Industry Developments

In October 2023, the GCC Mobile App Development Market continues to expand rapidly with significant investments and innovative advancements emerging from various companies. Nabta Health has reported the launch of a new health management mobile application aimed at improving women's health within the region, indicative of a growing focus on health-tech solutions. Meanwhile, MRSOOL, a prominent delivery app, has expanded its services to enhance user experience, highlighting the competitive environment. In September 2023, Gaditek completed a strategic acquisition of a smaller tech company to enhance its app development capabilities, signaling a trend of consolidation in the market. 

Additionally, for instance, Yamsafer is strengthening its operations by integrating state-of-the-art technological tools to optimize travel and accommodation services within its application, marking a pivotal shift in the tourism sector. The market valuation for mobile app development companies, including those like Softech and MobiDev, is witnessing a surge, reflecting increased demand for customized solutions. Over the past 2-3 years, a consistent upward trajectory in investments has been observed, leading to the introduction of numerous applications catering to various sectors including health, travel, and logistics in the GCC region.

GCC Mobile App Development Market Segmentation Insights

Mobile App Development Market Platform Outlook

• IOS


• Android

Mobile App Development Market Application Outlook

• E-commerce


• Banking


• Entertainment

 

Report Attribute/Metric Source:	Details
MARKET SIZE 2023	1.04(USD Billion)
MARKET SIZE 2024	1.35(USD Billion)
MARKET SIZE 2035	10.45(USD Billion)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)	20.448% (2025 - 2035)
REPORT COVERAGE	Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
BASE YEAR	2024
MARKET FORECAST PERIOD	2025 - 2035
HISTORICAL DATA	2019 - 2024
MARKET FORECAST UNITS	USD Billion
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED	Cappasity, Gaditek, Izdihar, Nabta Health, MRSOOL, AppLabs, Softech, Yamsafer, Jeddah Apps, O4Networks, Dahab, MobiDev, Fahim, Akhbarak, NourTech
SEGMENTS COVERED	Platform, Application
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES	Growing demand for e-commerce apps, Increased adoption of mobile banking, Rising focus on health and fitness, Expansion of educational technology, Enhanced user experience through AI integrations
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS	increased smartphone penetration, growing e-commerce adoption, demand for customized solutions, enhanced user experience expectations, support for emerging technologies
COUNTRIES COVERED	GCC