Cost to Build an App Like Qiwa in Saudi Arabia [2026 Guide]

Building an app like Qiwa in Saudi Arabia typically costs between SAR 100,000 and SAR 1,000,000 ($26,000–$266,000), based on feature complexity. Riyadh or Jeddah startups can launch basic HR modules for SAR 60,000–120,000, whereas enterprise apps featuring AI and government integrations surpass SAR 500,000.

More than an HR app, Qiwa serves as the digital heartbeat of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program. Connected to systems like GOSI, MOL, and Muqeem, it handles work permits and contracts effortlessly for millions.

Businesses and startups seeking to develop a similar solution require the expertise of a trusted mobile app development company in Saudi Arabia. Because developing such a platform demands a deep understanding of the digital transformation Saudi Arabia is pushing.

Our guide explains the essential features of a Qiwa-like app and outlines costs by development phase. See how factors like complexity, backend integrations, and AI drive pricing.

How Much Does it Cost to Build an App Like Qiwa in Saudi Arabia?

The cost to build an app like Qiwa varies by feature complexity and tech stack. A simple version to test the market hits SAR 60,000. But a full-scale platform linked to the government will reach the SAR 1,000,000 mark.

Below, we give a structured breakdown by app type:

Basic Features

A simple version focuses on simple workflow apps with basic dashboards and notifications. The cost remains between SAR 60,000 and SAR 120,000 because you exclude complex ministry database links. Using MVP development services can reduce costs and speed up launch.

Mid-Level Features

Medium complexity adds analytics and multilingual support for Arabic and English. These apps often include basic AI for document sorting and more robust backend development to validate market fit, which need investment of SAR 120,000 to SAR 250,000.

Advanced (Qiwa-Level)

Building at the Qiwa level requires complex integrations with government databases and predictive HR analytics. These are enterprise-grade apps designed for high scalability and strictly follow Saudi labor market regulations. The budget here starts at SAR 250,000 and scales based on the number of modules.

Generative/AI-First

The most expensive tier utilizes Large Language Models and automated workflows to handle complex legal queries. The next-gen workforce uses Generative AI solutions to provide real-time learning and support for users. Costs for these advanced platforms often exceed SAR 600,000.

Why Qiwa is the Benchmark for KSA GovTech?

The Qiwa app KSA is a unified digital workspace launched by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development to centralize labor services. It acts as a bridge between the government and the private sector, digitizing contracts and work permits.

This platform manages everything from payroll and visas to employee transfers for millions of users. Businesses use it to maintain compliance with government standards like Saudization.

Key modules include:

• Employers: Employee management, work permits, and reporting
• Employees: Personal profiles, salary slips, and work updates
• Agents: HR service providers and outsourcing management
• Government integration: Links with GOSI, MOL, MOH, and Muqeem

Qiwa also supports the National Transformation Program and Saudi labor market reforms. Its design accommodates multi-user access and large-scale HR analytics, making it a benchmark for enterprise-grade HR technology in KSA.

For startups and enterprises looking to develop a similar solution, replicating Qiwa requires more than a clean interface. The challenge lies in creating a robust system that can handle government integrations and data protection according to the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL).

Key Factors Affecting the Cost to Build an App Like Qiwa

From feature complexity to regulatory compliance, each decision can significantly impact your total cost to build an app like Qiwa in Saudi Arabia. Let’s examine the multiple factors that influence development budgets.

App Type & Features

The more modules you add, like visa processing or payroll, the higher your cost to build an app like Qiwa. Integrating with official APIs such as Absher or Muqeem requires specialized development time. Each module serves a specific part of the labor ecosystem.

Technology Stack

The technology stack also affects costs. Native Android and iOS apps built with Swift or Kotlin provide higher performance but increase development time. Whereas, cross-platform solutions like Flutter or React Native maintain near-native performance at 40–60% reduced cost. Many startups prefer to work with a cross-platform app development company to save money.

UI/UX Design

High-quality interfaces ensure employees and employers can navigate complex workflows with ease. For KSA, you need a bi-directional interface that supports right-to-left Arabic text perfectly. Good design can take up to 20% of your total budget but ensures high user adoption.

Backend & API Integrations

The backend is the most expensive part because it handles all the data processing. You must use API integration services to connect with government gateways. This ensures your app remains the single source of truth for its users.

Development Team

You should carefully consider hiring app developers in KSA versus using offshore teams. Local developers usually come with premium rates, but don’t miss any SDAIA or NCA requirements. Conversely, using offshore teams can reduce your development costs by 40% to 60%.

Testing & QA

Quality assurance in KSA is not just about bugs; it is about compliance. You need a dedicated mobile app testing & QA phase to pass government security audits. This usually adds 10-15% to the total project cost.

Maintenance and Updates

A living app requires SAR 5,000–40,000 per year to stay relevant. Most app maintenance and support services cover security patches and updates to stay compliant with new ministerial decisions. Budget for ongoing cloud hosting and feature iterations.

How to Build a Qiwa-Level App [Phase-Wise Cost Breakdown]

Structuring your project into phases helps manage the cost to build an app like Qiwa in Saudi Arabia effectively. Each phase has a specific price and a goal for your startup or enterprise.

1st Phase: Planning & Discovery (SAR 25,000 – 55,000)

The first phase focuses on market analysis and regulatory feasibility. In Saudi Arabia, this stage also includes reviewing labor law requirements, PDPL data rules, and integration readiness for platforms such as GOSI and MOL. This phase ensures your KSA app development pricing remains transparent.

2nd Phase: MVP Development (SAR 85,000 – 160,000)

MVP development focuses on launching core functionality to get an initial Qiwa app install base and gather user feedback. At this stage, there are no advanced government integrations, but the architecture is designed to support them later.

3rd Phase: Full Feature Development (SAR 250,000 – 550,000)

Here, you add the high-value modules like Visa Management and GOSI integration. This stage requires high-level web portal development services to support desktop users. Your app becomes a comprehensive HR solution during this phase.

4th Phase: AI & Compliance Automation (SAR 150,000 – 350,000)

Integrating predictive analytics helps companies anticipate their staffing needs or Saudization gaps. Use AI to automate repetitive tasks like document verification. It adds the “smart” layer that separates your app from basic HR tools.

5th Phase: Testing & Compliance QA (SAR 40,000 – 70,000)

Your app must undergo penetration testing to meet SDAIA and NCA standards. This ensures that user data is protected according to the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL). This is a non-negotiable step for any app in the Kingdom.

6th Phase: Launch & Deployment (SAR 20,000 – 40,000)

Deploying to the Qiwa app on iOS and Android stores requires meeting strict technical guidelines.  You also need local cloud application services to keep the app online 24/7. A coordinated launch ensures high visibility from day one.

Breakdown of Cost to Build an App Like Qiwa As Per the Features’ Complexity

The following table provides a clear look at where your money goes when developing specific modules. Use this to prioritize features based on your current budget.

Employer Dashboard

The dashboard is the heart of the Qiwa App KSA experience for business owners. A basic version provides basic reporting, while an advanced one offers real-time Nitaqat tracking and risk alerts. High-level reporting tools drive the cost up in this module.

Employee Transfer Module

This module handles user profiles and contract signatures under Saudi law. It must sync with Muqeem and GOSI to update residency and insurance records instantly. The technical depth here requires expertise from seasoned mobile app development companies in Saudi Arabia.

Visa & Payroll Integration

Linking with MOL, GOSI, and Absher is the most technical part of the build. These integrations require secure handshakes between your app and government servers. This feature is what makes a Qiwa clone truly functional.

AI Features

Adding an AI-powered features layer helps automate contract drafting and legal advice. Automation is becoming a standard for government apps. It provides instant value by reducing the need for human consultants.

Technical & Regulatory Considerations in App like Qiwa

App development in Saudi Arabia requires following specific rules that differ from those in other global markets. Your technical excellence must prioritize data residency and local hosting to avoid legal issues.

Cloud Hosting and Infrastructure

Saudi Arabia enforces strict data location rules. You must host employee and payroll data inside the Kingdom. If you store sensitive data in foreign cloud regions, regulators may reject the platform. Approved options include Oracle Riyadh and Google Cloud Dammam.

Government System Integrations

Qiwa-like apps connect with government platforms such as GOSI, MOL, MOH, and Absher. These systems require secure data exchange and accurate records. Poor integration causes payroll delays and visa issues. Experienced mobile app developers in Saudi Arabia can complete these integrations faster and with fewer risks.

Cybersecurity (NCA Standards)

The National Cybersecurity Authority sets strict controls for all digital platforms. You must implement the Essential Cybersecurity Controls (ECC) to protect against threats. This includes regular security audits and robust incident response plans.

SDAIA Compliance

The Saudi Data & AI Authority oversees how personal data is handled. Your app must follow the PDPL, which gives users rights over their own information. Compliance involves clear privacy policies and secure data processing methods.

Monetization Strategies For a Qiwa-like App

Investing in a Qiwa-like platform can be highly profitable if you choose the right business model. Most successful apps use a mix of subscriptions and enterprise partnerships.

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Subscription Models

You can charge businesses a monthly fee based on the number of employees they manage. This provides a steady stream of revenue while keeping the app accessible for SMEs. Tiered pricing allows you to serve both small shops and large corporations.

Enterprise Partnerships

Partnering with government entities or large recruiters can provide significant funding. These organizations often pay for custom features that help them manage their workforce more efficiently. It also adds a layer of credibility to your platform.

Value from Automation

The real ROI comes from the time saved through automation. Reducing the manual work needed for visa renewals or contract filing saves businesses thousands of Riyals. This efficiency makes your app an essential tool for any HR department in the Kingdom.

Tips to Optimize Your Cost to Build An App Like Qiwa

Developing a large platform does not mean you have to overspend. You can use several strategies to keep your costs to build an app like Qiwa under control while maintaining quality.

Phased Development

Build your app in stages by starting with an MVP.  This reduces your initial app development timeline and helps you focus on the most important features first. It also lets you generate revenue earlier to fund future updates.

Use Staff Augmentation

Instead of hiring a full team, use IT staff augmentation to fill specific gaps. This gives you access to senior developers for the critical integration phases without long-term overhead. It is a flexible way to manage your costs to build an app like Qiwa.

Reuse Existing Modules

Do not reinvent the wheel for standard features like login or payment gateways. Using proven app development frameworks for KSA and pre-built modules speeds up the process. This allows you to focus on the unique parts of your app, like the regulatory logic.

Simplify the Design

While high-end design is important, you should focus on usability over fancy animations. A clean and simple interface is often more effective for government apps. This approach reduces design hours and makes the app easier to maintain.

Conclusion

The cost to build an app like Qiwa is a significant but strategic investment for any business looking to lead in the Saudi HR tech space. By budgeting between SAR 200,000 and SAR 1,000,000, you can create a platform that rivals government-grade systems.

Success depends on balancing high-end features with strict compliance and local data hosting. Consider professional website development services to complement your mobile presence in Saudi Arabia. A specialized team like TekRevol ensures your project meets the highest standards of the National Cybersecurity Authority.