Designing an App Like Haraj

In the world of smart applications, the idea of designing an app like Haraj stands out as one of the most profitable and in-demand ventures. Think for a moment: how many times have you opened your phone looking for a used car? Or furniture for sale? Or even a property for rent? Imagine if you had an app that meets these daily needs and provides a continuous source of income!

In this article, we’ll take you on a comprehensive journey on how to design an app like Haraj—from concept development and essential features to the programming and marketing phases. This guide is intended for entrepreneurs, business owners, investors, and even developers interested in building high-performance apps.

What Is the Haraj App and Why Is It So Successful?

Haraj is a Saudi online marketplace specializing in classified ads. It covers a wide range of categories, including cars, real estate, electronics, jobs, and general services. The idea is simple: someone has something to sell, someone else is looking to buy it—Haraj connects them seamlessly and either for free or at a low cost.

Reasons for Its Success:

• Simple, user-friendly interface
• High user trust in the platform
• Full Arabic language support
• Efficient rating system
• Direct communication between buyer and seller

First Step: Is Designing an App Like Haraj Right for You?

Before you start planning or programming, ask yourself:

• Does your target market need a classified ads app?
• Do you have the financial and technical resources to launch the app?
• Can you offer added value that differentiates your app from Haraj?

If your answer is yes to these questions, you’re on the right track. The goal isn’t to clone Haraj, but to create an improved version tailored to a specific niche or region with innovative features.

Core Features of an App Like Haraj

To build a powerful Haraj-style app, you need to incorporate the key features that form the backbone of any successful online marketplace:

• Registration & Login (via email, phone, or social media)
• Easy ad posting with image uploads, descriptions, and pricing
• Advanced search by category, location, price, or posting date
• Direct messaging system between users
• User rating system (for credibility)
• Full admin dashboard to manage users and listings
• Instant notifications for messages and offers
• Online payment support for premium listings or paid services
• Interactive map for accurate location sharing
• Real-time customer support

User Interface Design: Simplicity First

In apps like Haraj, simplicity equals professionalism. The interface should be easy to navigate, even for non-tech-savvy users.

Design Tips:

• Use calm, clear color schemes
• Keep menus concise and straightforward
• Minimize steps when posting an ad
• Ensure a smooth and fast user experience (UX)

Artificial Intelligence to Enhance User Experience

Yes, you can make your app smarter than Haraj! Here’s how:

• Use AI to recommend similar ads to users
• Automatically categorize ads based on images or descriptions
• Monitor and filter inappropriate content using AI tools
• Accurately detect locations using geospatial intelligence

Monetization Strategies for an App Like Haraj

Building a successful Haraj-style app isn’t just about offering a great service—it’s also about implementing a solid business model that generates ROI. Here are the most common monetization methods:

Featured Ads

Let users promote their listings in prominent positions for a fee, increasing visibility and sales potential.

Subscriptions (Monthly/Yearly)

Offer premium plans with exclusive features like ad-free browsing, faster performance, or additional tools.

Sales Commissions

If your app facilitates sales or bookings, you can charge a commission per transaction, especially in high-ticket categories like real estate and cars.

Data & Analytics (Legally & Securely)

Provide anonymized consumer behavior reports to interested businesses, fully adhering to privacy regulations.

Google AdSense Ads

Integrate Google AdMob to display auto-ads that generate revenue per impression or interaction—without compromising the user experience.

All these methods can be customized to fit your app and its target audience, turning a great idea into a profitable and sustainable business.

Marketing Plan: Don't Rely on the Idea Alone

One of the biggest mistakes is assuming that the app will go viral on its own. Even Haraj started small and relied on well-planned marketing.

Suggested Marketing Steps:

• Create an appealing landing page for the app
• Run ads on Google, Facebook, and Instagram
• Collaborate with influencers in relevant niches
• Offer promotions to the first 1,000 users
• Optimize your app for app store search results (ASO)
• Launch email marketing campaigns

How Much Does It Cost to Build an App Like Haraj?

The common question: How much will this project cost?

The answer depends on several factors, such as the number of features, the type of app (hybrid or native), the design complexity, and the development scope.

Estimated Costs:

• MVP (Minimum Viable Product): SAR 30,000 to SAR 60,000
• Full-feature version with AI and marketing integration: SAR 100,000 or more

At Al-Manzuma Al-Ibda'iya, we believe that building a strong app doesn’t have to break the bank. We help our clients build smart MVPs that are scalable and expandable without having to start from scratch later.

App Security & User Protection

In the digital app world, security isn’t optional—it’s essential for building long-term trust with users.

That’s why at Al-Manzuma Al-Ibda'iya, we implement the highest security standards to protect user data and ensure a safe experience. Our protocols include:

• Data Encryption
• We use strong encryption methods to keep user data private and secure.
• Identity Verification
• We activate multiple verification methods like OTP or 2FA to ensure real user authenticity.
• Abuse Reporting System
• A simple and quick tool for users to report inappropriate content or behavior.
• AI Content Moderation
• Automated tools to detect and remove violating content, ensuring a safe community.
• Regular Data Backups
• We back up all data frequently to prevent loss and ensure app continuity in any situation.

A secure app not only protects users—it protects your brand reputation, reduces legal risks, and earns long-term user loyalty.

Final Thoughts

Designing an app like Haraj is not about copying—it’s about creating a scalable project that can evolve into a successful tech company. The key is not just replicating features, but innovating the user experience, delivering greater value, and marketing smartly.

If you’re serious about entering this market, the Al-Manzuma Al-Ibda'iya team is ready to support you from concept to launch. We don’t just code—we become a strategic partner in your success.

Are you ready to start? Let’s build your next app together!