Total number of users with smartphones is significantly growing in the Arab world, particularly in the
UAE, which leads the world in smartphone penetration, with 74% of mobile subscribers carrying a
smartphone. Therefore, there is a pressing need more than ever to start developing Arab apps that can
compete with global popular apps.
Though there is already a decent number of Arab apps on the market, none was able to make it to the
top charts on Google Play and App Store.
Through this survey, mGov attempts to investigate why Arab apps are out of the spotlight.
Survey on Arab Apps
scan here
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q5
Q6
Q7
Q8
Q9
Q10
Q11
Q12
Q13
Why aren’t there any Arab apps on the top charts?
What is major reason behind lack of success and penetration of Arab apps in comparison to
global apps?
Does the Arabic language play a role in reduced downloads and popularity of Arab apps?
Are there certain criteria that successful apps comply with?
Who decides these criteria?
It is noted that a significant number of smartphone users do not trust Arab apps, even good
ones, why?
Do government and public sector initiatives and efforts sufficiently encourage developing
professional mobile apps? How can we improve these initiatives?
Do academic institutions and universities provide the necessary efforts to encourage devel-
oping mobile apps? How can we improve these efforts?
Does the private sector adequately invest in developing mobile software specifically for Arab
users? How can we improve this investment?
Is there a real need for developing apps targeting Arab users in particular? If you answered
no, please tell us why. If you answered yes, please give us an example.
What is the required infrastructure for Arab apps to reach high penetration and global suc-
cess levels?
What is one Arab app worth adding to the top charts?
What are the apps you use most?
17
October
2014
