Table of Contents

Building an app like Yaqoot, which is a digital-first telecom and lifestyle app, requires a clear blend of telecom integration, seamless UX, automation, and scalable backend architecture. Yaqoot stands out by offering eSIM-based onboarding, instant mobile number activation, flexible data plans, and a fully self-service user experience without physical store visits.

To create a Yaqoot clone app, businesses must focus on simplifying complex telecom operations into an intuitive mobile experience while ensuring security, performance, and regulatory compliance.

From user registration and identity verification to plan selection, payments, and real-time usage tracking, every feature must work smoothly in the background while feeling effortless to the user.

This guide on how to build an app like Yaqoot will walk you through the essential steps, core features, the technology stack best suited to make an eSim app like Yaqoot, the development process, and more. So buckle up for an informative ride into the Yaqoot app development. 

 

Global eSim App Market Analysis 2026

 

Yaqoot Market stats

 

  • The global eSIM market size was estimated at USD 10.32 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 11.87 billion in 2025.
  • The eSIM market size is projected to reach USD 17.67 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2025 to 2033.
  • North America dominated the eSIM industry, accounting for 42.8% of the overall market in 2024.
  • The connectivity services segment dominated the market in 2024, accounting for 87.5%.

 

What is Yaqoot App? 

Yaqoot is a fully digital mobile service from Zain KSA (Saudi Arabia) that offers SIM cards, data, calls, and smart devices entirely through its app, targeting younger, tech-savvy users with an app-only, no-physical-stores approach.

It is the best eSIM app in UAE that provides customizable plans, instant eSIM/digital SIM delivery, and unique features like gifting data/minutes to friends, all managed within a fun, simple, and transparent digital environment.

 

What are the Business Benefits of Investing in eSIM App Development Like Yaqoot?

Businesses should invest in building an app like Yaqoot, as it offers many lucrative benefits. But what are these benefits? From market growth to improved customer experience, let’s discuss the major benefits of Yaqoot Android app development in detail in this section.

 

What are the Business Benefits of Investing in eSIM App Development Like Yaqoot

1. Lower Operational & Distribution Costs

Invest to build an app like Yaqoot that eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, packaging, inventory management, and retail distribution. This significantly reduces logistics, staffing, and store maintenance expenses while enabling a fully digital onboarding process.

 

2. Faster Customer Acquisition & Activation

With eSIM technology, users can activate a mobile number within minutes directly from the Yaqoot alternative. Businesses should develop an eSIM app like Yaqoot that offers Instant onboarding to remove friction, shortens the sales cycle, and helps them acquire customers faster than traditional SIM-based models.

 

3. Improved Customer Experience & Retention

A self-service B2C travel portal development like Expedia is beneficial for businesses because it allows users to manage plans, track data usage, recharge, and receive support without visiting stores or calling customer care. This convenience leads to higher customer satisfaction, stronger brand loyalty, and reduced churn.

 

4. Scalable & Future-Ready Telecom Model

ESIM apps in Middle East are highly scalable, making it easier to add new plans, services, and regions without infrastructure expansion. As eSIM app development and adoption grow globally, businesses stay future-ready and aligned with next-generation mobile ecosystems.

 

5. Higher Revenue Through Digital Monetization

Top eSIM apps in Dubai support multiple revenue streams such as subscription plans, data add-ons, roaming packs, OTT bundles, and in-app promotions. Yaqoot clone app includes personalized offers and dynamic pricing, further increasing ARPU (Average Revenue Per User).

 

6. Data-Driven Business Decisions

Digital eSIM platforms provide real-time insights into user behavior, usage patterns, and preferences. These analytics help businesses optimize pricing strategies, improve services, and launch targeted marketing campaigns.

 

What are the Top 10 Yaqoot Alternatives to Explore in 2026? 

Here are th top 10 Yaqoot alternatives that you can explore in 2026. All the top eSIM apps in Dubai mentioned in the list below offer high-end services and amazing features, making things easier for customers. 

 

What are the Top 10 Yaqoot Alternatives to Explore in 2026

 

App Name

Launch Year

Ratings

Platform Availability

mystc KSA 2016 4.0 iOS, Android
Mobily App 2014 4.0 iOS, Android
Zain KSA 2015 4.0 iOS, Android
Jawwy (by STC) 2018 4.2 iOS, Android
Virgin Mobile KSA 2020 4.5 iOS, Android
Red Bull MOBILE KSA 2021 4.1 iOS, Android
mySalam 2022 4.4 iOS, Android
SPL Online (Saudi Post) 2020 4.0 iOS, Android
NAFATH 2016 4.1 iOS, Android
Tygo 2021 4.0 iOS, Android

 

What are the Steps to Build an eSim App Like Yaqoot?

In this section, we will discuss how to develop an eSim app like Yaqoot. From conceptualization to deployment, we will discuss the crucial steps you need to follow in order  to develop an app like Yaqoot. Let’s take a look: 

 

What are the Steps to Build an eSim App Like Yaqoot

1. Define Objectives and Target Audience

According to a top mobile app development company, the first step in developing your eSIM app is to define your business objectives and clearly identify your target audience. Determine whether your app will cater to local users, frequent travelers, enterprises, students, or tourists.

This step also involves deciding your business model: prepaid, postpaid, subscription-based, or hybrid. Your objectives will directly influence feature prioritization, pricing strategies, onboarding flows, and marketing efforts. A well-defined vision helps align technical development with commercial goals.

 

2. Conduct Market Research and Competitor Analysis

Before proceeding to build an app like Yaqoot, conduct in-depth market research to understand user expectations and industry trends.  To build an eSim app like Yaqoot, Analyze competitors such as Jawwy, Virgin Mobile KSA, and mystc, and evaluate their strengths, weaknesses, features, and pricing models. This analysis helps identify market gaps, user pain points, and opportunities for differentiation.

 

3. Ensure Regulatory Compliance and Legal Readiness

The telecom sector is one of the most regulated industries. Your eSIM app must comply with local telecom regulations, data privacy laws, and international standards.

In regions like Saudi Arabia, identity verification through platforms such as Nafath is mandatory for SIM activation. Engaging legal and compliance experts from a top iOS app development company early in the process helps avoid costly delays, penalties, or rework during launch.

 

4. Design a Scalable and Secure Backend Infrastructure

A robust backend infrastructure is the backbone of an eSIM app. To build an app like Yaqoot, you ned need a highly scalable architecture capable of handling user accounts, eSIM lifecycle management, plan provisioning, billing, payments, and real-time usage tracking.

The infrastructure should support cloud-based deployment, load balancing, and disaster recovery, while ensuring end-to-end data encryption and secure authentication. A well-designed backend ensures consistent performance even during peak traffic and future expansion.

 

5. Partner with a GSMA-Certified eSIM Provider (SM-DP+)

To enable eSIM functionality, you must collaborate with a GSMA-certified Subscription Manager Data Preparation provider. This partner is responsible for creating, storing, and securely delivering eSIM profiles to user devices via over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Hire mobile app developers in Middle East to ensures seamless activation, device compatibility, and compliance with global standards. This partnership is critical because it directly affects service reliability and customer trust.

 

6. Develop the Mobile App with User-Centric UI/UX

The success of an app like Yaqoot depends heavily on its user experience. Design and develop intuitive iOS and Android applications that allow users to browse plans, purchase eSIMs, activate them instantly, track usage in real time, manage billing, and access support.

The UI should be clean, fast, and minimalistic, with a frictionless onboarding process. Features such as instant activation, in-app notifications, and simple navigation enhance usability and encourage long-term retention.

 

Ready to launch your app like Yaqoot

7. Integrate APIs and Third-Party Services

APIs serve as the connective layer between your app and external systems. To build an app like Yaqoot, you must integrate APIs for telecom carriers, payment gateways, identity verification platforms, analytics tools, CRM systems, and customer support solutions.

According to hybrid app development service providers, a secure and well-documented APIs enable seamless data exchange, faster updates, and easy scalability. Proper API management also ensures smooth interoperability across platforms and services.

 

8. Implement Strong Security Measures

Security is non-negotiable in eSIM app development. Implement multi-factor authentication, encrypted data transmission, secure payment processing, and role-based access controls.

Regular security audits, penetration testing, and compliance checks help protect sensitive user data and maintain regulatory standards. Hire dedicated developer to incorporate strong security frameworks that builds user confidence and safeguards your brand reputation.

 

9. Perform Rigorous Testing and Quality Assurance

After the process to build an app like Yaqoot is completed, it will be sent for comprehensive testing to ensure app stability and reliability.  Testing is an essential step to build an eSim app like Yaqoot which includes functional, performance, security, and usability testing, as well as device compatibility checks.

Testing across multiple devices, operating systems, and network conditions ensures a smooth experience for all users. Identifying and resolving issues early reduces post-launch risks and customer dissatisfaction.

 

10. Launch, Monitor, and Continuously Improve

Once the app passes all testing phases, your mobile app development company in UAE will submit it to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store along with required documentation and compliance approvals. After launch, monitor app performance, user behavior, and feedback using analytics tools.

Continuous updates, feature enhancements, security patches, and performance optimizations are essential to remain competitive. A strong post-launch strategy ensures long-term growth and customer loyalty.

 

What are the Essential Features Required to Build an App Like Yaqoot?

To make an eSim app like Yaqoot with digital-first technology, it is crucial to incorporate features that simplify complex telecom operations while delivering a smooth, secure, and user-friendly experience. Let’s explore these Yaqoot app development features:

 

What are the Essential Features Required to Build an App Like Yaqoot

1. Digital SIM / eSIM Management

Digital SIM or eSIM management is needed to build an eSim app like Yaqoot. The app must enable users to activate, deactivate, suspend, or replace eSIMs instantly without visiting a physical store. Instant provisioning significantly improves user convenience and reduces operational overhead.

 

2. Real-Time Usage Tracking

Users expect complete transparency over their telecom usage. develop an eSim app like Yaqoot

That displays real-time data consumption, call minutes, and SMS usage, along with remaining balance and validity. Visual dashboards, alerts, and usage notifications increase trust and engagement.

 

3. Secure Authentication and Data Protection

Given the sensitive nature of telecom and personal data, strong security is essential. The app should support two-factor authentication (2FA), biometric login (fingerprint or Face ID), and end-to-end encryption.

Secure authentication protects user accounts from unauthorized access and ensures compliance with data privacy regulations.

 

4. Personalized User Profile and Settings

A personalized profile section allows users to manage personal information, communication preferences, notification settings, and plan configurations.

Features to create an eSim app like Yaqoot such as auto-renewal, preferred payment methods, and language selection, enhance user control and create a more tailored experience.

 

5. Seamless Payment Integration

Create an eSim app like Yaqoot that supports multiple payment methods, including credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and local installment or wallet solutions.

According to experts at travel app development services, secure checkout flows and instant invoices make purchasing plans and add-ons effortless.

 

6. Order and Delivery Tracking

For telecom apps offering physical products like smartphones, routers, or physical SIMs, real-time order and delivery tracking is essential. Users should be able to view order status, shipment updates and confirmation notifications directly within the app, ensuring transparency and reliability.

 

7. In-App Marketplace

An in-app marketplace used to make an eSim app like Yaqoot allows users to browse and purchase compatible smartphones, accessories, and smart home bundles. This feature opens additional revenue streams while offering users a one-stop digital telecom ecosystem.

 

chat with our experts on whatsapp

8. In-App Customer Support

Efficient customer support is critical for user satisfaction. The app should provide multiple support channels, such as live chat, AI chatbots, FAQs, ticket submission, and contact details. Quick issue resolution and self-service support reduce churn and lower customer service costs.

 

What is the Cost to Develop an eSim App Like Yaqoot?

The cost to develop an app like Yaqoot typically ranges from $8,000 to $25,000. The Cost to develop an eSim app like Yaqoot with basic features and functionalities can reach up to $12,000.

If you wish to add advanced features like Network Status & Coverage Map or Real-time Usage Tracking, then the cost to develop an app like Yaqoot will be much higher.

Adding advanced functionality and multi-platform support can increase the Cost to create an app like Yaqoot to $25,000 or more. Here, we have presented a table highlighting the Cost to build an app like Yaqoot by app type. Let’s check it out:

 

App Type

Cost (USD)

Timeline

Basic eSIM App (MVP) $8,000 – $12,000 2–3 months
Standard eSIM App $12,000 – $18,000 3–4 months
Advanced eSIM App $18,000 – $25,000 4–5 months

 

What Factors Can Affect The Cost to Build an App Like Yaqoot?

The Cost to make an app like Yaqoot can differ depending on various factors. It can include features, platform choice, design level, and more. So, let’s take a moment and discuss the Yaqoot app development cost in detail. 

 

What Factors Can Affect The Cost to Build an App Like Yaqoot

1. App Complexity and Feature Depth

The scope and complexity of features have the greatest impact on development cost. A basic app with user registration, eSIM activation, and plan purchases is relatively affordable.

However, advanced functionalities such as real-time usage analytics, automated renewals, loyalty programs, AI-powered support, and in-app marketplaces require additional development effort, testing, and maintenance, driving up the cost.

 

App Complexity Level

Included Features

Estimated Cost (USD)

Basic (MVP) User login, eSIM activation, plan listing, basic payments $3,000 – $6,000
Medium Real-time usage tracking, renewals, notifications $6,000 – $10,000
Advanced Analytics, loyalty programs, AI support, marketplace $10,000 – $15,000

 

2. UI/UX Design and User Experience Quality

A well-designed user interface is essential for user adoption and retention. Custom UI/UX designs with brand-specific visuals, smooth animations, multilingual support, and accessibility features increase both design and development costs.

In contrast, template-based or minimal designs reduce the final cost to develop an app like Yaqoot, but may impact user engagement.

 

Design Level

Design Scope

Estimated Cost (USD)

Basic UI Template-based screens, minimal branding $800 – $1,500
Custom UI/UX Brand-specific layouts, smooth navigation $1,500 – $3,000
Premium UX Animations, multilingual support, accessibility $3,000 – $5,000

 

3. Platform Choice (iOS, Android, or Cross-Platform)

The choice of platform significantly affects the cost to make an app like Yaqoot. Developing the app for both iOS and Android increases time and budget, especially if native technologies are used. Cross-platform frameworks like Flutter or React Native can reduce costs, but complex telecom features may still require native optimizations.

 

Platform Type

Development Scope

Estimated Cost (USD)

Single Platform iOS or Android $3,000 – $5,000
Cross-Platform Flutter / React Native (iOS + Android) $4,500 – $7,000
Native (Both) Separate iOS + Android codebases $6,000 – $10,000

4. eSIM Provisioning and SM-DP+ Integration

One of the most critical factor affecting the cost to develop an app integration with a GSMA-certified SM-DP+ provider. This includes licensing fees, provisioning setup, secure OTA delivery, testing, and ongoing support. The choice of eSIM partner and geographic coverage directly impacts overall cost to make an app like Yaqoot.

 

Integration Level

Scope

Estimated Cost (USD)

Basic Integration Single SM-DP+ provider, limited regions $1,500 – $3,000
Standard Integration Secure OTA delivery, multi-device support $3,000 – $5,000
Advanced Integration Multi-region coverage, scalability $5,000 – $7,000

 

5. Testing, Maintenance, and Post-Launch Support

Extensive QA testing across multiple devices, operating systems, and network conditions is essential for telecom apps, but it can increase the cost to build an app like Yaqoot.

Post-launch maintenance, security updates, compliance updates, and feature enhancements add ongoing costs that must be planned in advance. Take a look at the table showcasing the mobile app maintenance cost based on maintenance support. 

 

Support Level

Coverage

Estimated Cost (USD)

Basic QA Functional & device testing $800 – $1,500
Advanced QA Performance & security testing $1,500 – $3,000
Post-Launch Support Updates, bug fixes (3–6 months) $2,000 – $4,000

 

How Does App Like Yaqoot Make Money?

Apps like Yaqoot operate on a digital-first telecom business model, leveraging the power of mobile technology to deliver services without relying heavily on physical stores. Let’s see how these apps make money: 

 

How Does App Like Yaqoot Make Money

1. Mobile Plan Subscriptions

The primary and most consistent source of revenue for an app like Yaqoot comes from mobile plan subscriptions. Users pay either monthly or prepaid fees for packages that bundle essential telecom services, including data, voice calls, and SMS messaging.

These subscriptions are designed to cater to different user segments, such as casual users, heavy data consumers, frequent travelers, or enterprise clients.

 

2. Data Add-Ons and Top-Ups

Beyond standard subscription plans, users frequently require additional services to meet their specific needs. Telecom apps generate extra revenue by offering data add-ons, additional call minutes, SMS bundles, and validity extensions.

These small, incremental purchases, also known as micro-transactions, allow users to tailor their service to real-time usage, preventing overage charges or service interruptions. 

 

3. Auto-Renewal and Recurring Billing

Automatic plan renewal is a critical feature that ensures consistent and predictable cash flow for digital telecom apps. By enabling recurring billing, users are automatically charged at the end of each billing cycle for their active subscription plan without manual intervention.

This reduces the likelihood of service interruptions due to missed payments, thereby improving user experience and retention. 

 

4. eSIM Activation and Setup Fees

Another important revenue stream comes from one-time activation or setup fees, particularly for users who subscribe to premium plans or international roaming services.

These fees are charged at the point of onboarding and cover the costs associated with provisioning, identity verification, and compliance with telecom regulations.

By combining activation fees with subscription plans, apps like Yaqoot can maximize revenue per user while ensuring a smooth, compliant, and secure activation experience.

 

Want a cost estimate for an app like Yaqoot

4. Device and Hardware Sales

Many telecom apps expand their revenue streams by offering an in-app marketplace for compatible devices and accessories. Users can purchase smartphones, tablets, routers, wearables, and other connected devices directly through the app.

Revenue is generated through direct sales, promotional bundles, or installment-based financing options linked to telecom plans.

 

Conclusion

Building an app like Yaqoot requires a strategic approach that combines technological innovation, regulatory compliance, and a user-centric design.

From the initial planning and market research to backend development, eSIM provisioning integration, and UI/UX design, each step plays a critical role in ensuring the app’s success If you are a business looking for a top travel app development company to develop an app like Yaqoot, then contact Dev Technosys, and stay tuned for more details. 

 

FAQS

 

Q1: What Is The Average Cost To Build An App Like Yaqoot?

The cost depends on features, complexity, and the chosen platform. A basic app costs $8,000 to $12,000; a standard app costs $12,000 to $18,000; and an advanced app with full features costs $18,000 to $25,000, including design, development, and integrations.

 

Q2: How Long Does It Take To Develop An App Like Yaqoot?

Development timelines depend on app complexity and team size. Typically, it takes 3 to 5 months, covering planning, UI/UX design, backend development, eSIM integration, testing, and deployment to iOS and Android app stores.

 

Q3: What Are The Essential Features Of A Yaqoot-like app?

Key features include eSIM management, real-time usage tracking, secure authentication, personalized profiles, seamless payments, order tracking, in-app marketplace, push notifications, and integrated customer support for an efficient, user-friendly telecom experience.

 

Q4: How Can An App Like Yaqoot Generate Revenue?

Revenue streams include mobile plan subscriptions, data add-ons, auto-renewals, eSIM activation fees, device sales, international roaming, upselling, affiliate partnerships, in-app promotions, and enterprise plans, providing diversified and sustainable income for the app.

 

Q5: Which Platforms Should I Target For Development?

Apps should target both iOS and Android for maximum reach. Cross-platform frameworks like Flutter or React Native reduce development time and cost, enabling feature-rich apps with smooth UI/UX and secure eSIM integration across devices.