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Top 50 Most Using Apps in the Middle East

The Middle East has witnessed rapid growth in the adoption and usage of mobile applications in recent years. As smartphones become increasingly accessible to a larger population, the apps in the Middle East have flourished, offering a wide range of innovative solutions and services to meet the diverse needs of users.

The region, characterized by its diverse cultures and vibrant economies, has wholeheartedly embraced digital technology and smartphone usage.

From connecting with friends and family to navigating bustling cities, shopping for essentials, or exploring the latest trends, mobile apps have transformed the way people live, work, and play in the Middle East.

This post explores the top 50 most using apps in the Middle East, shedding light on the categories that dominate the market and highlighting the apps that have gained significant popularity.

By understanding the best apps in Middle East, we can gain insights into the evolving digital behaviors and preferences of users in this dynamic region.

Understanding the Growing Apps in the Middle East

 

Understanding the Growing Apps in the Middle East

 

The Middle East has seen tremendous growth in the app market over the past decade. With a young and tech-savvy population, the region has become a hotbed for app developers and entrepreneurs.

One of the primary catalysts for the app market’s growth in the Middle East is the youthful demographic. With a large proportion of the population under the age of 30, there is a natural inclination toward embracing mobile app development company in Middle East and mobile apps as a part of daily life.

This demographic, characterized by their adaptability to digital trends, has contributed significantly to the rise of mobile app usage in the region.

Moreover, apps in the Middle East have experienced a remarkable surge in smartphone penetration over the last decade.

The combination of affordable smartphones and widespread access to high-speed mobile data networks has made it easier for people to connect, communicate, and access services on the go.

List of 50 Most Using Apps in the Middle East

 

List of 50 Most Using Apps in the Middle East

 

The Middle East is a region that has rapidly embraced digital technology and smartphones. With a growing tech-savvy population, the use of Android apps in Middle East has become an integral part of daily life.

Let’s start to explore the top 50 most-used apps in the Middle East, categorized for your convenience.

Section 1: Messaging Apps

1. WhatsApp

WhatsApp is the undisputed king of messaging apps in the Middle East. It’s used for text, voice, and video chats, making it the primary means of communication in the region. WhatsApp is known for its end-to-end encryption, ensuring user privacy.

2. Telegram

Telegram is appreciated for its security features and encrypted chats. It’s a go-to app for those who value privacy in their conversations.

3. IMO

IMO is a popular video calling app, especially among expatriates who use it to stay connected with loved ones abroad.

4. Viber

Viber is another popular messaging apps in the Middle East, known for its free messaging, voice and video calls, and the ability to create group chats. Viber also offers features like stickers and public chat communities, making it a versatile messaging platform.

5. Signal

Signal has gained traction due to its focus on privacy and secure messaging. It’s a favored choice for those who prioritize data protection.

 

Feature WhatsApp Telegram IMO

Viber

Signal
Text Messaging
Voice and Video Calls
End-to-End Encryption ✔ (Secret Chats)
Group Chats
Secret Chats ✔ (Private Chats)
File Sharing
Video and Voice Messages ✔ (Voice Messages) ✔ (Voice Messages)
Location Sharing
Multiple Devices ✖ (WhatsApp Web) ✔ (Multi-Device Support) ✖ (IMO Zones) ✖ (Snap Map) ✔ (Linked Devices)
Parental Controls
Business Features ✔ (WhatsApp Business)
Personalized Avatars ✔ (Bitmoji)
Screen Security ✔ (Screen Security)

Section 2: Social Media Apps

6. Facebook

Facebook remains a dominant force in the Middle East’s social media landscape. With features like Facebook Marketplace, it’s also used for buying and selling items locally.

7. Instagram

Instagram’s visually appealing platform is one of the popular apps in the Middle East for sharing photos and videos. It’s a favorite among influencers, businesses, and individuals looking to express themselves through visual content.

8. Twitter

Twitter serves as a news and updates hub for Middle Eastern users. It’s where people turn for real-time information and discussions on various topics.

9. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the top choice for professionals seeking to connect, network, and find job opportunities in the Middle East.

10. Pinterest

Pinterest is a platform for discovering and sharing creative ideas, making it popular among those interested in DIY, fashion, and lifestyle.

 

Feature Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest
Social Networking
Photo and Video Sharing
News Feed
Profiles
Tweeting/Posting
Retweets/Reposts
Direct Messaging ✔ (InMail)
Hashtags
Live Streaming ✔ (Facebook Live) ✔ (Instagram Live) ✔ (Twitter Live) ✖ (Story Pins)
Stories ✔ (Fleets) ✔ (Story Pins)
Verification ✔ (Verified Pages/Profiles) ✔ (Verified Accounts) ✔ (Verified Accounts) ✔ (Verified Profiles)
Business Pages ✔ (Facebook Pages) ✔ (Company Pages)
Events ✔ (Facebook Events) ✔ (LinkedIn Events)
Marketplace ✔ (Facebook Marketplace)
Job Listings ✔ (LinkedIn Jobs)
E-commerce Features ✔ (Shops) ✔ (Shopping)
Privacy Controls
Analytics/Insights ✔ (Page/Post Insights) ✔ (Insights for Business Accounts) ✔ (Analytics) ✔ (Analytics) ✔ (Analytics)
Advertisements ✔ (Facebook Ads) ✔ (Instagram Ads) ✔ (Twitter Ads) ✔ (LinkedIn Ads) ✔ (Pinterest Ads)

Section 3: E-commerce and Shopping Apps

11. noon

noon is a fast-growing e-commerce platform that serves as a one-stop shop for Middle Eastern consumers. It provides a convenient online shopping experience.

12. Souq

The best mobile app development company Dubai focuses on building prominent apps. Souq, an Amazon company, is a prominent e-commerce platform in the Middle East. It offers a wide range of products, from electronics to fashion.

13. Mumzworld

Mumzworld caters to parents by offering an extensive range of products for babies and children. It’s a trusted source for all things parenting.

14. Carrefour

Carrefour’s app simplifies grocery shopping, offering users a convenient way to order groceries and household essentials.

15. Namshi

The Namshi app is your go-to fashion destination, offering a seamless shopping experience right at your fingertips. With a vast selection of trendy clothing, footwear, and accessories, the apps in the Middle East cater to your style needs.

 

Feature Noon Souq Mumzworld Carrefour Namshi
E-commerce Platform
Online Shopping
Wide Product Range
Electronics
Fashion ✔ (Apparel)
Home and Living ✔ (Home Essentials)
Beauty and Personal Care ✔ (Beauty)
Baby and Kids ✔ (Mumz & Kids) ✔ (Kids & Babies)
Exclusive Deals ✔ (Noon Daily) ✔ (Deals of the Day) ✔ (Special Offers) ✔ (Weekly Promotions) ✔ (Flash Sales)
Payment Options ✔ (Credit Cards, COD, Noon Credits) ✔ (Multiple Payment Options) ✔ (Multiple Payment Options) ✔ (Multiple Payment Options) ✔ (Credit Cards, COD, Online Payment)
Delivery ✔ (Various Shipping Options) ✔ (Varies by Product) ✔ (Varies by Seller) ✔ (Delivery and Pickup Options) ✔ (Varies by Product)
Same-Day Delivery ✔ (Noon Express) ✔ (Same-Day Delivery)
Customer Support ✔ (Live Chat, Email, Phone) ✔ (Customer Support) ✔ (Customer Support) ✔ (Customer Support) ✔ (Customer Support)
Marketplace ✔ (Amazon Marketplace) ✔ (Carrefour Marketplace)
Third-Party Sellers ✔ (Third-Party Sellers) ✔ (Third-Party Sellers) ✔ (Third-Party Sellers) ✔ (Third-Party Sellers)
Order Tracking
Returns and Refunds

Section 4: Ride-Hailing and Transportation Apps

16. Uber

Uber revolutionized transportation in the Middle East. It’s widely used for ride-sharing, providing a convenient and reliable way to get around cities.

17. Careem

Careem, acquired by Uber, is another popular apps in the Middle East or ride-hailing service in the region. It offers a range of ride options, including economy, business, and more.

18. Yassir

Yassir is a ride-hailing app that has gained traction in the Middle East, providing an alternative to traditional taxi services.

19. Ola (Operates in some Middle Eastern countries)

Ola, the renowned ride-hailing service, has expanded its operations to select Middle Eastern countries. With a user-friendly app, Ola offers convenient and reliable transportation services to passengers in the region.

20. Dubai Metro

It is one of well-known apps in the Middle East. The official app for Dubai’s metro system, offering schedules, routes, and other important information for commuters.

 

Feature Uber Careem Yassir Ola Dubai Metro
Mobile App ✔ (iOS and Android) ✔ (iOS and Android) ✔ (iOS and Android) ✔ (iOS and Android)
Taxi Booking ✔ (In Some Regions) ✔ (Ola Cabs)
Car Type Options ✔ (Various Options) ✔ (Different Car Types) ✔ (Micro, Mini, Prime, etc.)
Ride Sharing ✔ (UberPool, UberX, etc.) ✔ (Careem GO, Careem Business, etc.) ✔ (Ola Share, Ola Prime Play, etc.)
Safety Features ✔ (Share Trip, In-App Emergency Button) ✔ (SOS Button, Share Ride Details) ✔ (Emergency Button)
Real-Time Tracking ✔ (Live Driver Location) ✔ (Train Location)
Payment Options ✔ (Credit Card, Cash, Mobile Wallet) ✔ (Cash, Credit Card, Wallet) ✔ (Cash, Credit Card) ✔ (Cash, Credit Card, Wallet) ✔ (Nol Card, Mobile Wallet)
Ratings and Reviews ✔ (Driver and Rider Ratings) ✔ (Driver and Rider Ratings) ✔ (Driver and Rider Ratings)
Ride Cancellation ✔ (Cancellation Options) ✔ (Cancellation Options) ✔ (Cancellation Options)

Section 5: Food Delivery App

21. Talabat

Talabat is a major apps in the Middle East food delivery scene, offering a wide selection of restaurants and cuisine types. Android app development company developed an amazing app that provides users with a user-friendly interface, real-time order tracking, and various payment options, ensuring a seamless and reliable food delivery experience.

22. Zomato

Zomato is a popular food discovery and delivery platform in the Middle East. It allows users to explore restaurant menus, read reviews, and order food online. Zomato often offers special deals and discounts to enhance affordability.

23. Uber Eats

Uber Eats, an extension of Uber’s ride-hailing service, offers an extensive range of restaurant options for food delivery. Users can track their orders in real-time and pay securely through the app.

24. Carriage (by Delivery Hero)

Carriage is a part of Delivery Hero, one of the world’s largest food delivery networks. It specializes in quick delivery and features a diverse range of restaurants, making it a popular apps in the Middle East.

24. Deliveroo

Deliveroo, another global giant in the food delivery industry, has made its mark in the Middle East. It provides a curated selection of restaurants, ensuring quality and variety in food choices.

 

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25. Jahez

Jahez is a popular food delivery apps in the Middle East. It provides users with access to a wide range of restaurants, offering everything from local cuisine to international dishes.

26. Otlob

Otlob, an Egyptian food delivery app, connects users with nearby restaurants and provides features like restaurant reviews and the ability to customize orders.

27. Cafu

While not a traditional food delivery app, Cafu is worth mentioning. It’s a fuel delivery service that allows users to have fuel delivered to their vehicles, ensuring they can get to their favorite restaurants or anywhere else.

28. Crave Delivery

Crave Delivery is a food delivery app operating in the United Arab Emirates. It offers a curated selection of restaurants, making it a go-to choice for those seeking diverse dining options.

 

Feature Talabat Zomato Uber Eats Carriage Deliveroo Jahez Otlob Crave Delivery
Food Delivery ✖ (Taxis and Ride-Hailing)
Restaurant Options ✔ (Multiple Restaurants) ✔ (Various Cuisines) ✔ (Local and Chain Restaurants) ✔ (Local and Chain Restaurants) ✔ (Various Cuisines) ✔ (Multiple Restaurants) ✔ (Multiple Restaurants) ✔ (Multiple Restaurants)
Menu Selection ✔ (Browse Menus) ✔ (View Menus) ✔ (Browse Menus) ✔ (View Menus) ✔ (View Menus) ✔ (Browse Menus) ✔ (Browse Menus) ✔ (Browse Menus)
Food Ratings and Reviews ✔ (Restaurant Ratings and Reviews) ✔ (Restaurant Ratings and Reviews) ✔ (Restaurant Ratings and Reviews) ✔ (Restaurant Ratings and Reviews) ✔ (Restaurant Ratings and Reviews) ✔ (Restaurant Ratings and Reviews) ✔ (Restaurant Ratings and Reviews) ✔ (Restaurant Ratings and Reviews)
Delivery Tracking ✔ (Real-Time Tracking) ✔ (Order Tracking) ✔ (Real-Time Tracking) ✔ (Real-Time Tracking) ✔ (Order Tracking) ✔ (Real-Time Tracking) ✔ (Real-Time Tracking) ✔ (Real-Time Tracking)
Payment Options ✔ (Credit Card, Cash) ✔ (Multiple Payment Options) ✔ (Credit Card, Wallet) ✔ (Credit Card, Cash) ✔ (Credit Card, Cash) ✔ (Multiple Payment Options) ✔ (Credit Card, Cash) ✔ (Credit Card, Cash)
Promotions and Discounts ✔ (Promo Codes, Discounts) ✔ (Offers, Promo Codes) ✔ (Promo Codes, Offers) ✔ (Promo Codes, Discounts) ✔ (Promo Codes, Discounts) ✔ (Promo Codes, Discounts) ✔ (Promo Codes, Discounts) ✔ (Promo Codes, Discounts)
Order History ✔ (Order History) ✔ (Order History) ✔ (Order History) ✔ (Order History) ✔ (Order History) ✔ (Order History) ✔ (Order History) ✔ (Order History)

Section 6: Real Estate App

29. Bayut 

Bayut is a leading real estate apps in the Middle East and a trusted platform for property buyers, sellers, and renters. The app provides an extensive database of properties, including residential and commercial listings. Users can search for properties based on their preferences, whether it’s for buying or renting, and explore options from various real estate agencies.

30. Dubizzle

Dubizzle is a classifieds and real estate platform in the UAE that connects buyers, sellers, and renters. In addition to real estate listings, it also covers automotive, jobs, and various other categories. The real estate section is a valuable resource for individuals and businesses looking for properties in the UAE

31. Property Finder 

Property Finder is a popular real estate apps in the Middle East and other parts of the Middle East. It serves as a comprehensive property search platform, catering to various property types and budgets. The app is known for its user-friendly interface and detailed property listings.

32. Baitk Jannaty (Saudi Arabia)

Baitk Jannaty is a prominent real estate app in Saudi Arabia, offering a variety of property listings, including residential, commercial, and land. It’s a go-to platform for Saudi residents and those interested in real estate investment opportunities in the country.

33. Property Monitor 

Property Monitor focuses on property data and analytics in the UAE. It’s designed for users interested in property market research, investment, and monitoring property values over time. While it primarily caters to professionals and investors, it offers valuable insights to all users.

 

Feature Bayut Dubizzle Property Finder Baitk Jannaty Property Monitor
Real Estate Listings
Property Search
Buy, Rent, Sell
Property Alerts ✔ (Email Alerts) ✔ (Alerts and Reports)
New Developments ✔ (New Projects) ✔ (New Projects)
Mortgage Calculator ✔ (Mortgage Calculator) ✔ (Mortgage Calculator)
Property Reviews ✔ (User Reviews) ✔ (User Reviews)
Real-Time Market Data ✔ (Market Data and Trends)
Agent and Seller Info ✔ (Agent and Seller Contact Information) ✔ (Agent and Seller Contact Info)
Commercial Listings ✔ (Commercial Listings)
Property Shortlists ✔ (My Shortlists) ✔ (Shortlist Properties)
Neighborhood Guides ✔ (Community Guides) ✔ (Neighborhood Guides)
Virtual Tours ✔ (Virtual Tours) ✔ (Virtual Tours)

Section 7: Entertainment and Streaming Apps

34. Shahid

Shahid, operated by MBC Group, is one of the most popular streaming apps in the Middle East. It offers a vast library of Arabic and international content, including TV series, movies, and original productions. The app is known for its user-friendly interface and the latest Arabic dramas and shows.

35. OSN Streaming

OSN Streaming, offered by the leading entertainment network in the Middle East, OSN, provides access to a vast selection of international and regional content. It includes movies, TV series, and live sports, as well as channels like Disney+, HBO, and more.

36. Starzplay

Starzplay is a streaming app in the Middle East that delivers a vast library of international and Arabic content, including movies, TV series, and original productions. It caters to diverse tastes and provides a user-friendly experience.

37. MBC Shahid OTT

MBC Shahid OTT is an extension of the MBC Group’s streaming services. It offers a wide variety of Arabic content, including series, shows, and exclusive releases, making it a popular choice among Middle Eastern viewers.

38. YouTube

YouTube is a global video-sharing platform that has a significant presence in the Middle East. It offers a vast library of user-generated content, as well as professional content from various channels. Users in the Middle East turn to YouTube for everything from entertainment and education to news and vlogs.

 

Feature Shahid OSN Streaming Starzplay MBC Shahid OTT YouTube
Streaming Content ✔ (Arabic Content) ✔ (Movies, Series, Shows) ✔ (Movies, TV Series) ✔ (Arabic Content) ✔ (User-Generated Content)
Arabic Language Support ✖ (Mainly English) ✖ (Mainly English) ✔ (Multiple Languages)
Live TV Streaming ✔ (Live TV Channels) ✔ (Live TV Channels)
On-Demand Content ✔ (On-Demand Videos)
Offline Downloading ✔ (YouTube Premium)
Parental Controls ✔ (Parental Control PIN) ✔ (Parental Controls) ✔ (Parental Controls) ✔ (Restricted Mode)
High-Quality Streaming ✔ (HD and 4K) ✔ (HD and 4K) ✔ (HD and 4K) ✔ (HD and 4K) ✔ (Various Quality Options)
Live Sports Streaming ✔ (OSN Sports) ✔ (Sports Livestreams)

Section 8: Health and Fitness Apps

39. MyFitnessPal

MyFitnessPal is a leading health and fitness apps in the Middle East that helps users track their diet, exercise, and overall wellness. With a vast database of food items and the ability to log workouts, it’s a comprehensive tool for managing one’s health.

40. Lose It

Lose It! is a weight loss app that offers personalized plans for healthier living. It focuses on calorie counting and creating a sustainable, balanced diet to achieve weight and health goals.

41. Fitbod

Fitbod is a workout apps in the Middle East designed to create personalized fitness plans based on individual goals, equipment availability, and fitness levels. It offers a variety of exercises for strength training and workouts.

42. Calm

Calm is a meditation and sleep apps in the Middle East that promotes mental well-being through guided meditation, relaxation exercises, and sleep stories. It aims to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall mental health.

43. Medisafe

Medisafe is a medication management app that helps users organize and keep track of their medications, prescriptions, and health-related appointments. It’s a valuable tool for improving medication adherence and overall health management.

 

Feature MyFitnessPal Lose It Fitbod Calm Medisafe
Calorie Tracking
Macronutrient Tracking
Exercise Tracking
Workout Plans
Meal Planning
Water Tracking
Weight Tracking
Social Features ✔ (Community, Friend Sharing) ✔ (Community, Friend Sharing) ✔ (Community) ✔ (Community, Group Sessions) ✔ (Care Circle)
Sleep Tracking ✔ (Sleep Stories)
Subscription Plans ✔ (Premium Features) ✔ (Premium Features) ✔ (Fitbod Plus) ✔ (Calm Premium) ✔ (Medisafe Premium)
Challenges and Goals ✔ (Challenges and Goals) ✔ (Health Challenges)
Health Insights ✔ (Health Insights) ✔ (Health Insights) ✔ (Insights and Analysis) ✔ (Health Insights)
Integration with Wearables ✔ (e.g., Fitbit, Garmin) ✔ (e.g., Fitbit, Garmin) ✔ (e.g., Apple Watch) ✔ (Apple Health) ✔ (e.g., Apple Health)

Section 9: Education and Learning Apps 

44. Duolingo

Duolingo is a highly regarded language learning app that provides an interactive and engaging platform for users to learn a variety of languages. It offers courses in Arabic, English, and other languages, making it a valuable resource for language learners in the Middle East.

45. Udemy

Udemy is a global e-learning platform that offers a wide range of online courses on various subjects. Middle Eastern users can access courses in areas like technology, business, and personal development, among others.

46. edX

edX is a renowned online learning platform that offers courses from top universities and institutions worldwide. Middle Eastern users can access courses on subjects ranging from science and engineering to humanities and business.

47. Coursera

Coursera is a popular online learning platform offering courses, specializations, and degrees from top universities and institutions. It covers a wide range of subjects, making it a valuable resource for personal and professional growth.

48. Khan Academy

Khan Academy is an educational platform that offers free video lessons, practice exercises, and instructional content on a wide range of subjects. It’s a valuable resource for students and lifelong learners in the Middle East.

49. Memrise

Memrise is a language learning app that focuses on vocabulary and language comprehension. Users can access courses in various languages, including Arabic, English, and others, enhancing their language skills.

50. Quizlet

Quizlet is a versatile learning app in the Middle East that allows users to create and access flashcards, study sets, and interactive quizzes. It’s an excellent resource for students and lifelong learners looking to enhance their knowledge and retention of information.

 

Feature Duolingo Udemy edX Coursera Khan Academy Memrise Quizlet
Language Learning ✔ (Multiple Languages) ✖ (General Topics) ✖ (Some Language Courses) ✖ (Some Language Courses) ✖ (Language Courses) ✔ (Language Courses) ✔ (Language Courses)
Video Lectures ✔ (Video-Based Courses) ✔ (Video Lectures) ✔ (Video Lectures) ✔ (Video Lessons)
Interactive Exercises ✔ (Interactive Lessons) ✔ (Exercises and Quizzes) ✔ (Interactive Activities) ✔ (Interactive Activities) ✔ (Interactive Learning) ✔ (Interactive Lessons) ✔ (Interactive Quizzes)
Certificates ✔ (Certificates of Completion) ✔ (Completion Certificates) ✔ (Verified Certificates) ✔ (Verified Certificates) ✔ (Certificates of Completion)
Self-Paced Learning
Live Q&A Sessions ✔ (Live Office Hours) ✔ (Live Office Hours)
Price ✔ (Freemium Model) Varies (Paid Courses) Varies (Paid Certificates) Varies (Paid Certificates) Free Varies (Paid Pro Plan) Varies (Paid Plans)
Offline Learning ✔ (Duolingo Plus) ✔ (Offline Viewing) ✔ (Mobile App) ✔ (Mobile App) ✔ (Offline Content) ✔ (Offline Learning) ✔ (Offline Learning)

Trends and Future of App Usage in the Middle East

The app market in the Middle East is thriving, with a diverse range of apps catering to various needs and preferences of users. From social media and entertainment to e-commerce and education, the Middle East has seen a significant surge in app adoption.

As technology continues to advance and smartphone penetration increases, it is expected that app usage will continue to grow in the region.

App developers and businesses should closely monitor the emerging trends and preferences of Middle Eastern users to capitalize on the vast opportunities presented by this rapidly expanding market.

FAQ: Top 50 Most Using Apps in the Middle East

1. Which social media apps are most popular in the Middle East?

Popular social media apps in the Middle East include Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and Twitter. However, regional platforms such as TikTok and Telegram also have significant user bases in the region.

2. What are the top e-commerce platforms in the Middle East?

Some of the leading e-commerce platforms in the Middle East are Souq.com (now Amazon. ae), Noon, and Namshi. Local platforms such as Jumia and Wadi also have a strong presence in the region.

3. Are there any specific trends in app usage in the Middle East?

Yes, a notable trend in the Middle East is the increasing popularity of food delivery apps. With the convenience they offer, apps like Talabat, Zomato, and Deliveroo have gained immense traction in the region.