The Cost and Key Features of Building a Government Service App Like Absher

With so many businesses operating online in today’s digital era, public sectors have adopted this business model to meet ever-evolving customer expectations. The Saudi Interior Ministry launched its popular app, Absher, in Saudi Arabia to allow residents and visitors to access government services online. Since 2010, Absher has grown into one of the leading government websites and apps, with over 23 million people using it in 2010. Although initially offering civil matters, traffic, and passport services, it now offers over 330 services that benefit private businesses and government agencies. Its popularity is drawing many business owners who hope to replicate its success by developing similar apps to Absher.

This blog explores the costs of developing apps for government services like Absher. Furthermore, this piece will discuss different facets of app development as well.

What Is Absher App?

Since its launch, Absher has become one of the world’s most popular accessed governmental sites and apps, with over 23 million registered users. It was initially a web app created to provide services related to passports, travel, and civil matters. In addition, they offer more than 350 services beneficial to government agencies and commercial enterprises.

Because of Absher’s immense success over many years, many developers have expressed a desire to create applications similar to Absher. Suppose you’re looking to create an app similar to Absher. In that case, developing a hybrid application with a company is more beneficial for achieving success.

Digitalization is a trend that has been accelerating, and the move towards e-government has become a trend across the globe as many countries seek to emulate the popularity of applications like Absher. Digital platforms aren’t only about changing how people interact with their governments and improving transparency, responsibility, accountability, and accessibility. But, as the demand for the development of these apps increases, so do the questions about how much it would cost to build a mobile app for government services similar to Absher.

Also Read – Saudi Arabia Ranks Top in Government Strategy for AI | What AI App Development Holds for the Future?

Why Should Entrepreneurs Invest In Apps Like Absher?

For entrepreneurs, government-run applications like Absher offer a variety of advantages. There are many reasons to create an online platform, such as Absher. Some of them are:

1. Enhanced Citizen Engagement

They allow the citizens to exercise more power, increasing general satisfaction with the government’s services. Access to information faster and simpler interfaces directly leads to engaged and more cooperative people.

2. Enhanced Government Efficiency

If you develop an app platform like Absher, bureaucratic work is more accessible. According to the Android and iOS mobile app development company in UAE, various services are available. Automating and centralizing the processes frees public resources and allows more efficient service delivery.

3. Reduced Costs

Apps for government service can result in substantial cost reductions, as there is less need to visit in person and obtain documents. Government funds are now distributed to other vital sectors.

4. Data-Driven Decision Making

The data collected through these applications provides insightful data on citizens’ needs and trends in service use. Authorities can now create more efficient policies by using data to inform their decisions.

5. Innovation And Economic Growth

The apps help the government build a creative culture. They also encourage citizens to participate in the digital technology economy, which boosts economic growth overall.

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Essential Features Of App Like Absher

Integrating critical aspects will be vital in creating an innovative app like Absher. Explore the features you must have to make the government experience more efficient.

1. Personal Profile Management

This function allows users to modify and view their data efficiently. In particular, they can change contact information, add family members, and manage their official documents with security. This significantly improves user experience developing apps that provide government services like Absher.

2. Digital ID And Documents

Absher’s most essential features are the Digital ID and document storage option, which lets users keep and organize authentic credentials electronically. This way, users can access their driver’s licenses, residency permits, and other essential documents from the application. Additionally, users can report missing documents within the app and request the creation of new documents. This feature will ensure security and convenience for the users.

3. Language And Accessibility Options

Language and accessibility options are essential to accommodate the diverse needs of users in an app like Absher. Users can select their preferred language, which makes the Absher App more welcoming. In particular, Absher offers language options, including Arabic and English, to ensure an uninterrupted communication experience and accessibility to all users.

4. User Authentication And Security

A government-specific application such as Absher prioritizes user security and authentication. Secure authentication methods, such as two-factor authentication, protect customers’ private information and transactions. Absher employs biometric authentication to secure access to personal users’ profiles. A commitment to user authentication and security increases trust and security among application users.

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5. Government Services Integration

A crucial feature of the app Absher is integration with government services, which allows app users to access all government services seamlessly within the same platform. For example, citizens can request passes, settle fines, and make appointments with various federal agencies using Absher’s application. This app streamlines administrative procedures and benefits millions of people.

6. Visa Services

Suppose you are considering developing a federal service application such as Absher. In that case, you need to concentrate on adding essential features to improve the user experience. One of the most critical features is Visa Services, which facilitates a seamless process for visa applications and processing. 

Using the user-friendly interface, customers can apply for an entry visa and work permit or extend their stay. This essential feature improves the overall user experience and caters to the requirements of foreign travelers and expatriates.

7. Service Status Tracking

Including service status tracking is crucial when creating an application such as Absher. In particular, they can monitor their passport status or renew their visas, giving them transparency and a sense of ease. Tracking statuses improves satisfaction and improves the functionality of the app.

8. Electronic Crime Reporting

A custom-designed government service application like Absher electronic crime report allows users to report illegal acts quickly. In particular, they can file reports of cyberbullying, theft, or fraud to ensure a safer environment. This feature is crucial to its role in helping to promote security and safety for the public in cyberspace.

9. Resident Permit Services

A mobile app development company in Saudi Arabia contributes to making platforms as successful as Absher efficient. Permits for residents are an essential element. The feature lets residents easily apply for, renew, or verify their permit status. Foreigners can manage their residence and status by reducing bureaucratic hassles and ensuring they comply with the regulations. By incorporating resident permit services, you increase the value of the application and the user’s satisfaction.

10. Offline Access

When creating an application like Absher and making it available, you must add an essential offline access feature. This ensures that the service is available regardless of the internet connection. Users can, for instance, access previously seen information, including digital files or appointments, even offline. This can increase customer satisfaction and ease of use, particularly in locations with limited connectivity, making it more user-friendly and stable.

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11. Job Services

Apps such as Absher have job search features that help connect applicants to job possibilities. The app lets users search for jobs, apply for positions, and monitor their progress through the application. For example, people looking to apply for employment with the federal government may look at various job opportunities and submit their applications seamlessly, streamlining the job search process and contributing to the growth of their economy.

12. Analytics And Reporting

Analytics and reporting are essential components in creating a platform similar to Absher. It should provide valuable information about user behavior and application performance, allowing administrators to spot trends and enhance services. For example, thorough data on usage patterns helps users make informed decisions, improving the overall experience and efficiency.

Cost To Build An App Like Absher

The Cost To Develop a Mobile App for government agencies can vary greatly based on the app’s complexity level, features, and the developer team’s platform and place. Developing a basic app with a few extra options ranging from $8,000 to $20,000 is possible. The price could increase to over $30,000 for more advanced software, including cutting-edge technologies such as biometric verification, live data processing, interaction with existing government databases, and other services. 

It’s essential to consider the ongoing upkeep, upgrade, and compliance with government security standards and requirements, which all add to the overall cost of developing an Absher app.

Basic Application (Minimal Features): $8,000 – $15,000

Intermediate Application (Moderate Features): $15,000 – $22,000

Complex Application (Advanced Features): $30,000+

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Factors Influencing Development Costs Of App Like Absher 

The creation and maintenance of Absher is a significant expense and is subsidized by the federal government. A few factors that could affect these expenses include technological advancements, user demands, and security procedures.

1. Technology Stack

Technology is evolving rapidly, meaning Absher’s maintenance and development should also change to keep pace with the most recent technological developments. These constant changes could necessitate the introduction of new programming languages that provide advanced capabilities, contemporary frameworks to facilitate faster development processes and innovative infrastructure solutions that assure reliability and flexibility. 

Each update improves the system’s performance and user experience but increases costs. This can result from the necessity for special training on the development team and investments in the latest equipment or software. There is a possibility of a longer time for development as the latest technologies are integrated into and improved.

2. Design And User Experience

Nowadays, people expect an effortless and intuitive experience when using every application. That is the case with Absher, as individuals and governments require an intuitive platform tailored to their needs. In this way, the look and experience of Absher users will have to adapt to evolving demands from users. 

This could involve regular studies to learn about the requirements and preferences of the users, applying the principles of user-centered design, and continually making adjustments based on users’ feedback. These efforts could create additional costs due to hiring UX designers, conducting usability tests, and making software adjustments.

3. Integration With Government Systems

Absher has a vital role in connecting people and public organizations, which makes it essential to be integrated with other governments’ systems. It could be a financial system and databases for healthcare, education documents, and many more. However, every integration needs carefully planned development and ongoing app maintenance to ensure seamless communications between the various systems. In addition, this adds more complexity to the development process; however, it also adds costs to the federal government.

4. Data Privacy and Security 

Data privacy and security is paramount given the sensitive nature of the personal data stored on Absher security. Implementing robust security measures that guard against cyber attacks and comply with strict privacy laws is essential. Costs associated with maintaining adequate security levels can be substantial, ranging from investing in the latest technologies to hiring cybersecurity experts. In addition, keeping abreast of privacy and data protection regulations could mean regular audits and updates, which can add to the expense of maintaining Absher.

5. Platform Compatibility

Absher must be widely accessible to all people regardless of the platform or device that they are using. This requires a substantial expenditure to create a flexible and adaptable platform that provides seamless access to various devices. To achieve such flexibility, allocating more resources to tests on multiple devices is necessary to pinpoint and correct any compatibility issues. 

Additionally, it requires meticulously changing the layout and functions to support various screen sizes and resolutions. This ensures a smooth and easy-to-use experience for everybody. Committing to inclusiveness and accessibility is crucial to improving user satisfaction and engagement.

6. Testing And Quality Assurance

Each software application requires careful and stringent testing to confirm its functionality, stability, and dependability. This is even more important for Absher as thousands of users depend on it to deliver essential services. In addition to the compatibility tests mentioned previously, thorough tests are needed to find and remove all bugs and glitches that may occur during routine use. 

Furthermore, quality assurance inspections are required to protect the integrity and security of data used by users and to cybersecurity against cyber-attacks. This includes periodic vulnerability assessments, penetration tests, and code reviews to discover weaknesses affecting a platform’s security. These measures are crucial in ensuring users’ trust and protecting sensitive data.

7. Maintenance And Updates

The technologies keep changing, which means the necessity for regular upgrades and the maintenance of software platforms like Absher. This includes fixing the reported issues or bugs or issues, adding enhancements and new features, and ensuring that the platform is compatible with the latest technology. Regular system maintenance is vital to ensure the platform operates smoothly, preventing possible interruptions or downtimes to the service. 

Furthermore, regularly maintaining up-to-date and current security protocols with the most recent cybersecurity threats is crucial to protecting users’ personal information and ensuring Absher’s security. Thus, a committed group of support and maintenance experts must ensure that Absher is reliable, effective, and safe. 

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Tech-Stack To Develop App Like Absher

Absher is a federal government service app that uses a mix of backend and frontend technology to offer a secure and efficient platform. Here is a brief overview of the technology stack.

1. Frameworks For Native Development

Frameworks like Kotlin for Android and Swift for iOS are good choices for providing a native experience for both platforms. They offer a smooth, personalized user experience specific to each platform.

2. Cross-Platform Frameworks

Frameworks like React Native or Flutter can be utilized to build one codebase that can be used for both platforms. This could speed up the development process; however, some platform-specific modifications may be required to ensure optimal functionality.

3. Backend

Server-side languages like Node, Python, Java, and JavaScript are commonly utilized to control database interactions and construct the program’s logic.

4. Databases

Applications, users, and data from government agencies will likely be stored in secure, scalable database systems, such as PostgreSQL, Oracle, and MySQL.

Absher Like App Development Process

When you begin developing an online platform like Absher, understanding the design process and development procedure for an app for government services is vital. From conception to launch, every step requires meticulous preparation and implementation. It is time to dive deeper into the procedure.

1. Project Initiation

Proper planning and analysis done by mobile app development company in Dubai can significantly affect the total government service application development costs. The scope of the project, setting out the goals, and conducting market analyses are crucial stages. In the case of healthcare, for instance, an app development initiative could include elements like telemedicine that need significant integration and security measures that can impact the cost.

If you can define clear goals and an appropriate scope, you will prevent scope creep and costly expenditures. The careful assessment of customer and market needs at the beginning will ensure a clearly defined strategy for development that ultimately leads to an efficient and cost-effective online platform such as Absher.

2. Design The Frontend

A well-thought-out design can speed up the development process and avoid costly revisions in the future. For example, a government service application with an easy-to-use and intuitive design will likely require less customer support staff, reducing operating costs.

Furthermore, prototyping lets users test the app and provide feedback. It also helps identify issues before launching the entire development process, saving time and money. Prototyping and design should be prioritized to ensure an effective, well-designed app that improves user experience and reduces development expenses. Prototyping and design are the two most essential elements that impact the price of developing an app similar to Absher.

3. Backend Development

• The backend system is accountable for managing user information, processing request requests, and supporting various features. The app for government services includes features that can be selected to determine the cost of running the application. The backend system met the requirements of 2.6 million active users and accessed over 1,900 public services in a single click. This achievement improved government efficiency by providing residents and citizens an easy and convenient way to access essential government services.

When the application grows as more functions and features are added, the backend scales to accommodate the new features, which could result in more costs. A well-structured, scalable, and flexible backend is a robust and effective platform that optimizes overall development costs over the long term.

4. Deployment And Launch

The costs of deployment and launch significantly affect the app’s government services and development costs. A well-planned and executed plan during this stage is essential. Launching a platform such as Absher will initially require server configuration, data migration, and integration of various systems, which can result in expenses. A service for the government that runs using cloud servers can provide scalability. Still, it comes with monthly subscription costs. 

In addition, promotional and marketing strategies to connect with the intended users contribute to the overall expense. However, an effective launch is essential to encourage early user adoption and provide comments, which could result in future enhancements and cost reductions. Executing a well-planned deployment guarantees that the launch goes smoothly and helps ensure longevity and success.

Ways To Reduce App Development Costs

Creating an app like Absher is difficult, especially if you must learn how to use it frugally and efficiently. What you should accomplish to cut costs low while keeping the top quality of your app:

Make Sure You Plan And Define Your Product’s Specifications Before You Are Ready To Begin

Most entrepreneurs stick to their vision of the final product they envision in the back of their minds. As your project grows, your vision of the final product could shift, and you might be able to increase your development timeline and expenses. Planning the development of your application with the Product Requirements Document (PRD) is crucial for keeping everyone on the same page and defining your budget and expectations from the beginning. The PRD is essential to the success of your app, no matter if you’re outsourcing the requirements for development or building the product yourself.

1. Create Prototype

Preparing a clickable model of your mobile application can be an excellent way to lower expenses. Our team’s design can quickly create a clickable model by using tools like Adobe XD or Figma to show the user functionality of your application. You can use it to refine your user interface and determine when you’re ready to develop.

2. Outsource Your App Development

If you have an in-house team of developers, your job is complete. You must submit your PRD to them, obtain estimates, and then begin turning your concept into a product. But suppose you don’t have a group or do not have the technology skills. In that case, it’s recommended that you delegate your project to a well-known third-party On-Demand App Development Company.

3. Create An MVP

Creating an MVP will help you test the app before launching an actual product. An MVP is a simplified version of your software with limited attributes that will meet your target audience’s needs. The MVP can help you start on time, collect user feedback, and enhance your product.

4. Use Existing Platforms

It’s best to work with an existing stable platform or technology rather than developing your own. Third-party libraries are available for almost all the functions you could imagine. For example, utilizing an external messaging platform or integrating an existing order software can dramatically cut development time and costs.

5. Automate Manual And Repetitive Tasks

Automate repetitive tasks that are susceptible to mistakes. Examples include testing applications before launch, sending milestone email messages, and changing notifications. These small and easily automated jobs will help reduce expenses and save you time.

Conclusion

Technology constantly evolves, and the government must remain aware of this. Partnering with a reliable and experienced mobile app development company in Saudi Arabia for app development offers numerous advantages. It includes tailored solutions, scalable structures and expertise for the public sector, price effectiveness, continuous support, and improved quality of service.

There’s plenty that goes into developing apps. It’s a big undertaking in Saudi Arabia; app development is on the rise, with various firms offering different solutions at affordable costs. Anything from essential utility apps to more complex enterprise-level solutions is readily available. 

Although many variables influence the price of creating apps for Saudi Arabia, there are ways to cut costs without sacrificing the quality. If you partner with the best firm for app development, a successful app will satisfy your business needs and boost your brand’s visibility online.