People have always looked for someone to talk to about their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. In today’s world, dating apps have become just as common and important as health monitoring apps. Did you know that global dating market is projected to hit $13.14 billion by 2030? Why? Because almost everyone wants to meet someone they can connect with. These dating apps have made it so simple that they could be considered the foundation of the modern dating scene.
There are many dating apps, but Raya stands out. The app is known for being extremely selective in its membership and strives to improve connections between professionals and celebrities. The Raya app has created a unique segment where users feel they need something more than the typical dating experiences offered. The number of users has been growing year after year as influencers, artists, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals join.
If you’re looking to develop dating app that will help you profit, it’s highly recommended that you understand the concept and purpose of Raya. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to develop dating app like Raya.
Market Statistics Of Dating App Development
Online dating apps have seen significant growth and popularity, with millions of people using them and downloading them worldwide. Their ease of use and simplicity have contributed to their increasing popularity. The unique features integrated into dating apps make them an ideal way for many users to make new connections. Before you learn how much it costs to develop dating app, it’s important to understand why they’re in such high demand.
Here are some key market statistics you should know before making a significant investment in dating app development:
- Did you know that most young people aged 18-29 have tried using dating sites and apps? 60% of them have given them a try at least once.
- According to studies, the majority of American couples meet online.
- For a global comparison, the majority of revenue will come from the United States that is $1.43 billion by 2025.
- More than 300 million users Worldwide use dating applications, with over 20 million of them paying for extra features.
- According to a Statista report, the number of people using online dating sites globally is estimated to reach 381 million.
What Is Raya Dating App?

Raya is an online, member-based social network that allows users to network, date, and make new acquaintances. It is a platform where people working in the creative industry can connect with each other, whether for networking or dating. Many public profiles, including high-profile executives, celebrities, athletes, and other prominent singles, are available on the Raya dating app.
Initially, Raya started as a private, membership-based app. Over time, it evolved into an all-purpose dating platform, allowing people to meet, make friendships, and network professionally. Raya app dating isn’t just for celebrities, but they do make up a significant part of the user base. To join the app, users must first register, and their profile needs to be approved by existing members before they can become part of the Raya community.
With its focus on security and reliability, the Raya app stands out as a premium dating platform. Unlike typical dating apps, it is a high-profile, exclusive community where entry is highly selective. Raya is available only as an iOS mobile application and requires a monthly subscription fee of $9.99 to maintain its functionality.
How Does The Raya Dating App Work?

If you are looking to develop dating app like Raya, you’ll need to understand the process that how it works. Let’s take a look at how to apply, create an account, and get accepted onto the platform:
1. Exclusive Membership & Application Process
Like other dating apps, Raya dating app requires applicants to pass through a rigorous screening process. The Raya dating app must be downloaded from the App Store (currently only available on iOS), and you must register using your Instagram login. The platform evaluates applications based on your Instagram profile, professional background, and social influence.
2. Profile Setup & Approval
Before gaining full access, applicants can enhance their profiles by adding pictures and a bio. The system allows users to edit their profiles before approval and encourages them to build an attractive online presence. The review process can take days or even weeks, and users will receive confirmation once they’ve been accepted.
3. Connections With Like-Minded Individuals
Once approved, you can explore the app in several ways. In addition to dating, it is also used for friendships and professional networking. When learning “How to get on Raya?”, you’ll be able to easily browse other profiles as well as send messages to people you like. The app’s algorithm suggests potential connections based on shared hobbies, professional interests, and networks, ensuring high-quality interactions.
4. Privacy & Security Features
While connecting with others, be aware that the app places a strong emphasis on security. Screenshots are strictly prohibited, and attempting to take one may result in a warning or even removal from the platform. It also offers an encrypted messaging system and integrates with Instagram, allowing users to interact without revealing personal information.
5. Subscription & Membership Fees
Once your profile is approved, you’ll still have access to basic features for free. However, you can enjoy additional benefits by making an in-app purchase. The premium options include a one-time request for $4.99 or a full subscription plan costing $113.99. Although the cost is relatively low compared to the premium features, its true value lies in the high-quality connections the service provides.
Must-Have Features of a Dating App Like Raya

The functionalities and features of a dating app are the most important aspect when you ask, “What does it take to develop dating app like Raya?” The performance of the app depends on the complexity of the elements you decide to include. However, keep in mind that the total cost of creating a dating app may exceed your budget depending on the features you choose.
Here are some essential features worth incorporating into your dating app to make it more engaging:
User’s App Features
| Features | Description |
| Register and Login | Allows users to sign up for accounts and log in securely with advanced techniques. |
| Profile Verification | Verifies the user’s identity for authenticity, helping reduce fake profile creation. |
| Location-based Matching | Matches users based on their geographical area to provide better connectivity. |
| Chat and Meet Requests | Allows users to message others and request to connect with them. |
| Upload Photos and Profile Information | Lets users upload images and share personal details to create a profile. |
| Manage User Profile | Allows users to update and edit their personal details and preferences. |
| View Matches and Suggestions | Displays potential matches and suggestions based on the user’s interests and location. |
| Accept and Send Requests | Users can send and accept meeting or chat requests from others. |
| Respond to and Decline Requests | Users can respond to or decline invitations to chat or meet. |
| Customer Support | Provides assistance through a support system to address any issues users may face. |
| Report and Block Users | Allows users to report inappropriate behavior or block others for safety. |
| Reward Points | Users earn points for achievements or activities within the app. |
| Push Notifications and Alerts | Sends messages and alerts to users regarding important updates or notifications. |
Admin Panel Features
| Features | Description |
| Verify Profile Authenticity | Verifies the authenticity of customer profiles to ensure they are secure and legitimate. |
| Control Customer Invites/Rewards | Tracks and controls customer invitations and the rewards points they’ve collected. |
| Affiliate and Partnership Programs | Creates and manages affiliate programs or partnerships to bring in more users. |
| Membership Package Management | Manages and creates different membership levels and the benefits users receive. |
| Control SMS and Email Marketing | Manages email and SMS messages to reach out to users and promote special offers. |
| Multi-Currency Support and Payment Integration | Allows payments in various currencies and integrates payment options smoothly. |
| Reporting and Analytics | Tracks user behavior, app usage, and other important data to help improve the application. |
| Push Notifications and Email Alerts | Sends important reminders and updates to users via push notifications and email. |
| CMS (Content Management System) | Manages and maintains the app’s content, such as images, text, and videos. |
| Track Revenue | Monitors income, sales, and other financial indicators to assess the app’s profitability. |
| Multi-Language Support | Makes the app available in multiple languages to ensure accessibility across different regions. |
| Control Menus, Pages, and Screens | Manages the structure and navigation of the app, including its pages. |
Advanced Features Of Dating Apps Like Raya
Dating apps like Raya offer distinctive features that make online dating more personal and unique. They help users find the best matches, stay safe, and engage in meaningful relationships with one another.
1. Exclusive Membership & Invite-Only System
Many top dating apps, such as Raya, feature an invitation-only or referral-based system. This means that you must be accepted by a current user to join the platform. This creates a sense of exclusivity, making members more genuine and discerning. It’s ideal for bringing together an exclusive group of individuals, such as celebrities or professionals, to connect with others who share similar values.
2. Advanced Matchmaking Algorithms
Advanced matchmaking algorithms use AI (artificial intelligence) to provide better matches based on individual location, interests, and other preferences. These algorithms consider various factors to identify compatible users, increasing the likelihood that people will connect with others they feel a genuine bond with.
3. Private Messaging and Media Sharing
Dating apps like Raya allow private messaging, where users can send photos, videos, and audio notes. This feature helps people get to know each other before meeting in person. Some apps also offer encrypted messaging, ensuring privacy and security for users.
4. Location-Based Features
Like similar apps, Raya features location-based functions, allowing users to see potential matches nearby. This is especially helpful for those looking to connect in real-time and makes it easier to meet up with others who are in the same area.
5. Curated Content
Raya is known for curating content, including virtual events, meet-ups, and recommendations that align with users’ interests. The app is engaging and enjoyable, providing users with fun activities that go beyond just dating.
6. In-App Events & Social Gatherings
To help members connect outside of the usual chatting and swiping, apps like Raya organize real-world events and occasions. These can be virtual gatherings or special events. This helps build a stronger community where members can meet like-minded individuals in a more structured setting.
How Much Does It Cost To Develop Dating App Like Raya?
The cost to develop a dating app is around $27,000. However, the total dating app development cost can range from as low as $18,000 to over $50,000, depending on the app features you decide to implement and the options you wish to incorporate.
If you are a startup, creating a dating app with fewer features is a more affordable alternative compared to developing an app with all advanced functionalities.
The most important question to ask is: How much does it cost to develop dating app like Raya?
Let’s take a look at the estimated costs of creating a dating app based on various complexities:
Cost to develop dating app with minimal complexity: Between $15,000 and $20,000.
Cost to develop dating app with moderate complexity: Between $22,000 and $27,000.
Average cost to develop dating app with advanced functionalities: Between $40,000 and $50,000+.
If you’re unsure about these estimates, you might wonder why there’s such a large difference in the prices. It’s important to understand the factors that affect the development costs of dating apps and how each factor can impact the total cost. We’ll cover this in the next section.
Factors Affecting The Cost To Develop Dating App Like Raya

Due to the rapid growth in mobile phone usage, dating apps have become one of the most popular options for individuals to spend their time. While the market is already dominated by some of the most popular dating sites, such as Raya, there is still significant growth potential for startups. However, entering this market requires a substantial investment.
This is why hiring dating app development company with expertise in dating app development is crucial to ensuring the success you desire. Ultimately, the end cost will depend on the scope of the dating app development.
1. Features
To build a successful and effective dating app, it is essential to include both common and unique features. Basic features, such as messaging and user profiles, are important, but adding unique features can help your app stand out from the crowd. While different features may attract more attention, keep in mind that adding these features will increase development costs, as they require more time and effort to implement.
2. Platform
The platform you select for your app (Android, iOS, or cross-platform) will affect the development cost. Developing apps for Android or iOS tends to be more expensive because each platform requires its own version of the application. The cross-platform development approach could help save costs by developing a single app that works on both platforms, but it may not provide the same performance as well as user experience as native apps for each platform.
3. UI/UX Design
In today’s digital age, an appealing design is crucial. It’s not enough for your app to just work; it must also look attractive. A well-designed user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) make the app user-friendly and help retain customers. Designing custom interfaces can be costly, but they create a unique app that stands out from the competition and attracts new users.
4. Technology Stack
The technology stack consists of a range of technologies as well as tools used to build an app. Choosing the right technology stack is important as it will impact both the time required to build the app and its cost. Different platforms come with varying license fees, system integrations, and ongoing maintenance costs. Selecting the right technology stack can help you save money in the long run.
5. Post-Deployment Service
Once the app is launched, you’ll need to provide ongoing support to solve any issues, update the app, and improve its features. This is known as post-deployment service. Hiring experts to maintain and support the app after launch will incur additional costs, but it is important to ensure that the app runs smoothly for customers.
Steps To Develop Dating App Like Raya

Do you wish to develop a dating app like Raya? If so, you must understand how to proceed with your app’s development:
1. Conceptualization
The first and most vital step is to plan every phase of the process, from conception to release. It is essential to decide on the target market, budget, technology stack, features to incorporate, and other options. Having a clear understanding of how the development process will unfold is crucial.
2. Hire a Dating App Development Company
Once you’ve made your final decision and are ready to move forward, the next step is selecting a dating app development company. Make sure the developer you choose is professional and experienced. Opt for top-tier developers who can create an app that stands out in the industry.
3. Build The Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
When you hire a mobile app development company, ask them to first create the MVP. The MVP should include the fundamental and essential features needed to launch. The goal of the MVP is to test whether it resonates with users. If it’s well-received, you can move forward; if not, you’ll know that adjustments are needed before proceeding further.
4. Design and Development
Once your MVP has gained traction in the market and received positive feedback, you can ask the development company to proceed with the full design and development. As the development process continues, the developers will focus on designing the product and building both the front-end and back-end using more advanced features to make the app appealing to customers.
5. Test and Launch The App
After the app has been developed and designed, quality analysts (QAs) will test it to ensure that everything functions correctly. They will address any technical issues, fix glitches, and refine the app to make it more appealing and user-friendly.
How Do You Make Money via Dating Apps Like Raya?

In the business world, investments become beneficial once they start generating revenue. With the costs involved in developing and maintaining dating apps, it’s crucial to know how to generate revenue for your business.
There are several monetization strategies you can use to earn money from dating apps:
1. Google Ads
Google ads appear within the app and are widely seen by users across the globe. These ads help the app generate revenue every time they are viewed. Google Ads are a major source of income for Raya.
2. Membership
Raya charges $7.99 for customers to access premium features. Membership provides users with additional benefits, such as enhanced matchmaking. Membership fees are the primary way Raya generates revenue.
3. Paid Subscription
This is one of the most effective and popular methods of earning money from dating apps. With a paid subscription, users can access exclusive features, such as video or voice chats, and other premium options. You can offer different subscription tiers based on monthly, quarterly, or annual fees.
4. Third-Party Services
Dating apps focus on creating relationships, which opens up opportunities for partnerships with third-party service providers. By collaborating with these platforms, you can offer gift cards, flowers, chocolates, books, taxis, movie tickets, and more to users. You can make a profit or earn referral fees when partnering with third-party services.
5. Sponsored Profiles
Another way Raya makes money is by sponsoring profiles. If a user wants to increase the visibility of their profile, they can contact Raya to have their profile sponsored for a small fee.
How EmizenTech Can Help You Develop a Dating App Like Raya
At EmizenTech, we are backed by a top-tier technology team with years of experience creating and refining high-quality dating applications that have thousands of downloads. To ensure the success of your app, our tech experts use scalable technology to ensure that your dating application can easily grow as your user base expands.
Instead of using standard app design and development methods, we analyze our clients’ needs and work closely with them to understand their goals. Our approach is focused on lean development, allowing us to build additional features as the platform evolves.
Our specialists are dedicated to delivering competitive and engaging dating apps that are both attractive and enjoyable for users. We can help you transform your app idea into a successful business with a cost-effective investment.
Conclusion
Dating apps have become very popular nowadays, with apps like Raya being particularly loved by many, especially famous individuals. Creating a dating application like Raya could be both a thrilling and challenging experience.
Raya’s strength lies in its exclusivity, providing a secure, specialized, and exclusive space for its users. Developing a similar app requires meticulous planning, a clear understanding of the unique features that make Raya distinct, and skilled technical support from experienced developers.
Although it may seem complicated, with the right strategy and guidance, it is possible to turn your dream into reality. Engaging a reputable dating app development firm can help you navigate the development process smoothly and assist you in making the best decisions at every stage. By utilizing the right options and implementing a well-planned strategy, you’ll be able to create a dating application that not only meets the needs of users but also makes a strong mark in the market.
FAQs
What's the prerequisite for the development of a dating app?
Creating a dating application requires an effective plan that includes choosing the right target market and incorporating key features like profile management, matching capabilities, chat functions, and measures to protect personal data. It's essential to ensure the app complies with privacy regulations and offers an easy-to-use user interface.
What development team would be ideal to develop dating app?
An ideal team for developing a dating app should consist of skilled mobile developers, designers, UI/UX experts, quality assurance testers, and a project coordinator. The team must be proficient in cross-platform development tools to ensure the app is accessible on all platforms. They should also have a portfolio of successful social or dating applications.
What will it take to create an app similar to Raya?
Developing an app similar to Raya is expected to take around 3 months. The timeline may extend depending on the features you want to incorporate or additional customizations needed for the app.
Are there additional expenses beyond the initial dating app development costs?
Beyond the initial development phase, additional expenses may include hosting, marketing, maintenance, content moderation, and customer support. After launch, the app may require regular updates to introduce new features and comply with app store guidelines.

