If you think launching a food delivery app like Jahez is just about hiring developers and getting restaurants on board, let’s pause for a second. The truth is, the food delivery industry in 2025 is more competitive than ever. Customers expect faster deliveries, a smooth app experience, and AI-powered recommendations. At the same time, many apps struggle to stand out and make a profit.
With the food delivery market expected to reach $1.40 trillion in revenue in 2025, the opportunity is huge, but so are the challenges.
According to statista
Whether you’re a startup or an established business looking to add AI to your platform, you need the right plan to succeed.
So, how much does it cost to develop a food delivery app like Jahez? What features will make your app successful? How can AI help you beat the competition?
This guide breaks it all down costs, features, AI integration, and expert insights, so you can build a food delivery app solution the right way.
The Rapid Growth of the Food Delivery App Market
The food delivery industry is evolving fast, driven by AI-powered innovations and shifting consumer preferences. If you’re considering food delivery app development like Jahez, the numbers prove it’s a profitable move.
Market Insights:
- The global online food delivery market was valued at $221.65 billion in 2022 and is set to grow at a CAGR of 10.3% until 2030. Source: grand view research
- By 2029, the market will reach $1.89 trillion, growing at 7.79% CAGR from 2025 to 2029.
With 51% of people preferring to order food online over dining out, businesses that invest in a food delivery app development service can tap into this high-growth industry. However, building a food delivery app like Jahez requires a well-planned strategy, the right features, and a scalable technology stack.
Why Businesses Need to Develop a Food Delivery App Like Jahez
Consumer habits have changed, and food delivery apps are now an essential part of the restaurant industry. Platforms like Jahez have transformed how people order food, providing fast service, real-time tracking, and AI-driven recommendations. For businesses, investing in food delivery app development like Jahez is a strategic move to stay competitive and grow.
Key Reasons to Build a Food Delivery App Like Jahez
1. Expanding Business Reach and Customer Base
Restaurants that rely only on dine-in customers are missing out on a large market. More people prefer the convenience of ordering food from their smartphones rather than visiting a restaurant. A food delivery app like Jahez allows restaurants to:
- Reach a wider audience beyond their physical location.
- Increase sales with online orders and takeout options.
- Improve operations with AI-powered order management.
2. Higher Profits with a Direct-to-Customer Model
Many restaurants depend on third-party aggregators like Uber Eats or Talabat, which charge high commission fees. Creating a food delivery app like Jahez allows businesses to:
- Avoid third-party commissions and keep more profits.
- Offer discounts and loyalty programs directly to customers.
- Strengthen customer relationships by providing a personalized experience.
3. AI and Automation Are Changing Food Delivery
Technology plays a key role in modern food delivery services. Many food delivery app development services now integrate AI-driven solutions, such as:
- Smart order recommendations based on customer preferences.
- Predictive analytics to forecast demand and manage pricing.
- Automated delivery logistics to reduce wait times and improve efficiency.
4. Staying Competitive in a Growing Market
The food delivery industry is constantly evolving, and businesses that fail to innovate risk falling behind. Investing in food delivery app development like Jahez helps businesses:
- Offer a better user experience than competitors.
- Use AI and automation to improve efficiency.
- Adapt to market trends and consumer expectations.
Developing a food delivery app like Jahez is no longer just about convenience—it’s a necessity for restaurants and food businesses to grow, stay competitive, and increase profits. Whether you own a restaurant, a cloud kitchen, or a food delivery startup, investing in a food delivery app development service ensures long-term success.
How to Monetize Your On-Demand Food Delivery App Like Jahez
Building a food delivery app like Jahez is only the first step. To make it successful, you need a solid monetization strategy that ensures long-term profitability. Leading platforms like Jahez, Uber Eats, and Talabat use multiple revenue streams to maximize earnings while keeping their services attractive to customers and restaurant partners.
The best food delivery app platforms use multiple revenue streams to maximize earnings while maintaining customer satisfaction. Here’s how you can monetize your food delivery app effectively.
Below is a breakdown of the best ways to monetize your food delivery app and create a sustainable business model.
1. Commission-Based Model
This is the most common revenue model used by food delivery platforms. Apps like Jahez charge restaurants a commission fee for every order placed through the platform.
How it works:
- Restaurants partner with your platform and list their menu.
- A fixed or percentage-based commission is charged on each order.
- The commission rate can vary based on factors like restaurant popularity and delivery service usage.
This model works best for marketplace-based food delivery platforms where multiple restaurants operate under a single platform.
2. Delivery & Convenience Fees
Many food delivery businesses charge customers a delivery fee based on distance, demand, or order size.
How it works:
- Customers pay a delivery fee, which is either fixed or dynamic based on location and restaurant distance.
- Some platforms introduce higher charges during peak hours or bad weather to optimize revenue.
- Additional convenience fees may be applied for small orders to maintain profitability.
This model ensures that even if a restaurant doesn’t pay a commission, the platform can still generate revenue from deliveries.
3. Subscription or Membership Plans
Offering a premium membership plan allows customers to enjoy benefits such as zero delivery fees, exclusive discounts, and priority service.
How it works:
- Customers pay a monthly or yearly fee for premium benefits.
- Membership perks can include faster deliveries, lower service fees, and special deals from partner restaurants.
- This model helps create loyal customers who consistently use your platform.
Jahez, for example, has successfully implemented subscription-based loyalty programs to retain users and increase repeat orders.
4. Advertising & Promotional Listings
Restaurants are willing to pay to increase their visibility on your app. You can offer paid promotion features that allow businesses to get more orders.
How it works:
- Sponsored listings: Restaurants can pay to appear at the top of search results or homepage recommendations.
- Featured deals: Restaurants can promote discounts or special offers for a fee.
- In-app banner ads: Brands can advertise food items, grocery products, or restaurant chains directly within the app.
This model not only benefits the food delivery platform but also helps restaurants attract more customers.
5. Surge Pricing & Peak-Time Charges
During high-demand periods, such as weekends, holidays, or bad weather, you can implement dynamic pricing strategies to boost revenue.
How it works:
- Delivery fees increase during peak hours due to high demand.
- Restaurants may pay extra to maintain fast delivery times during busy periods.
- AI-driven pricing models help adjust rates automatically based on real-time demand.
This strategy ensures profitability while maintaining fast service and availability for customers.
6. White-Label & B2B Solutions
Selling your food delivery technology as a white-label solution is another revenue stream.
How it works:
- Businesses pay to use your platform under their own brand.
- Subscription-based fees or licensing models generate steady income.
This is ideal for restaurant chains, cloud kitchens, and grocery stores looking to create their own delivery network.
7. Monetizing Unique Features for Food Delivery App
The success of food delivery app development like Jahez depends on offering features for food delivery app that enhance user experience and maximize revenue. Features such as AI-based order recommendations, route optimization for delivery drivers, and multi-payment options help create a customer-friendly and profitable platform.
A well-designed food delivery app like Jahez needs a strong monetization strategy to ensure long-term success. Combining commission-based earnings, subscriptions, advertising, and premium features can make your platform profitable and scalable.
If you want to build a food delivery app like Jahez, working with an expert food delivery app development service can help implement the best revenue strategies tailored to your business model.
Regulatory and Compliance Challenges for Food Delivery Apps in the UAE, UK, and USA
Launching a food delivery app like Jahez requires strict compliance with food safety, data privacy, and employment regulations, which vary by region. Failing to meet these standards can result in fines or operational restrictions.
1. Compliance Challenges in the UAE
- Food Safety & Licensing: Businesses must follow Dubai Municipality’s Food Code and obtain an e-commerce license from the Department of Economic Development (DED).
- Data Protection: The UAE Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) regulates customer data collection and security.
- Third-Party Delivery: Only registered food vendors and licensed delivery personnel can operate legally.
2. Compliance Challenges in the UK
- Food Hygiene: Restaurants must comply with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) regulations.
- Data Privacy: GDPR laws require secure handling of user data.
- Gig Worker Rights: Delivery platforms must meet UK labor laws to ensure fair compensation.
3. Compliance Challenges in the USA
- Food Safety: The FDA mandates strict food handling and labeling regulations.
- Data Protection: Apps must comply with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).
- Employment Laws: Some states require gig workers to be classified as employees, impacting delivery operations.
How to Ensure Compliance
- Obtain licenses and food safety certifications before launching.
- Implement secure data storage to comply with GDPR and CCPA.
- Follow local labor laws for fair treatment of delivery workers.
- Stay updated on regulatory changes to avoid legal risks.
Overcoming the challenges in food delivery app compliance is essential for legal operation and long-term success. Understanding and adhering to UAE, UK, and USA regulations helps businesses build trust and avoid penalties in competitive markets.
Essential Features for Food Delivery App Development like Jahez & Uber Eats
To develop a food delivery app like Uber Eats or Jahez, your platform must offer a seamless user experience, efficient order management, and advanced technology integrations. The right set of features ensures customer satisfaction, smooth restaurant operations, and effective delivery management. Below are the must-have features for a successful food delivery app.
1. User App Features
These features enhance the customer experience and make ordering food quick and convenient.
- Easy Sign-Up & Login – Social media, email, and phone number authentication.
- Smart Search & Filters – Find restaurants based on cuisine, location, ratings, and price.
- Real-Time Order Tracking – Live updates on order status and estimated delivery time.
- Multiple Payment Options – Support for credit/debit cards, mobile wallets, and cash on delivery.
- AI-Based Recommendations – Personalized food suggestions based on past orders and preferences.
- Schedule Orders – Allow users to place orders for later delivery.
- Ratings & Reviews – Customers can share feedback on food quality and delivery service.
- Loyalty Programs & Discounts – Reward users with coupons, offers, and membership perks.
2. Restaurant Panel Features
These features help restaurant owners manage orders, track performance, and optimize service.
- Restaurant Dashboard – View order history, revenue insights, and customer feedback.
- Menu Management – Add, update, or remove food items and pricing.
- Order Management System – Accept, prepare, and dispatch orders in real-time.
- Earnings & Commission Reports – Track revenue, payments, and commissions.
- Marketing & Promotions – Run targeted ads and offer exclusive deals.
3. Delivery Partner Features
Delivery personnel need efficient tools to complete orders quickly and accurately.
- Profile & Registration – Sign up, verify documents, and manage availability.
- Route Optimization & Navigation – AI-powered GPS for the fastest delivery routes.
- Earnings & Payouts – Track earnings and receive weekly or daily payments.
- Order Alerts & Status Updates – Accept or decline orders based on availability.
- Customer Communication – In-app chat or call options to resolve delivery issues.
4. Admin Panel Features
A robust admin panel ensures smooth app operation and business growth.
- User & Restaurant Management – Onboard, approve, and monitor restaurants and users.
- Commission & Revenue Tracking – Set commission rates and analyze earnings.
- Order & Delivery Monitoring – View and manage real-time order processing.
- Reports & Analytics – Insights into sales, user engagement, and market trends.
- Marketing & Push Notifications – Send offers, promotions, and important updates.
5. Advanced Features to Stay Ahead of Trends in Food Delivery App Development
With increasing competition, integrating advanced features is crucial to stay ahead of trends in food delivery app development like Jahez.
- AI-Powered Chatbots – Automate customer support and order inquiries.
- Voice Search – Let users search for restaurants and dishes using voice commands.
- Smart Inventory Management – Automate stock tracking for restaurants.
- Blockchain-Based Payments – Enhance security and transparency in transactions.
- Drone & Robot Deliveries – Future-ready automation for faster deliveries.
To develop a food delivery app like Uber Eats or Jahez, integrating these essential features is key to success. A well-designed platform with user-friendly interfaces, efficient delivery management, and AI-driven insights can enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and maximize profits.
If you are looking to build a scalable and feature-rich food delivery app, partnering with an experienced food delivery app development service can help you implement the best solutions for your business.
Step-by-Step Process to Develop a Food Delivery App Like Jahez
Creating a food delivery app like Jahez requires strategic planning, the right technology stack, and a well-defined execution process. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, following a structured approach ensures a scalable, profitable, and high-performing app.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to develop a food delivery app successfully.
Step 1: Market Research & Business Model Selection
Before starting development, conducting thorough market research is crucial. This helps you understand customer behavior, competitors, pricing models, and industry trends.
Key Considerations:
- Identify target audience (regional preferences, spending habits, order frequency).
- Analyze competitors like Jahez, Uber Eats, and Talabat to find gaps and opportunities.
- Decide on a business model—whether you want to operate as:
- Aggregator Model: Connect users with restaurants and charge a commission.
- Cloud Kitchen Model: Operate delivery-only restaurants with no dine-in service.
- Logistics Support Model: Provide delivery services for restaurant partners.
Step 2: Define Core Features & Technology Stack
Your app’s success depends on the features and functionalities that make ordering food seamless. At this stage, defining the features for customers, restaurants, and delivery partners is essential.
Must-Have Features:
- User App: Search restaurants, place orders, track deliveries, and make payments.
- Restaurant Panel: Manage menus, process orders, and analyze sales.
- Delivery Partner App: Accept deliveries, track routes, and update status.
- Admin Panel: Oversee platform operations, analyze revenue, and manage users.
Technology Stack:
- Frontend: React Native, Flutter (for cross-platform development).
- Backend: Node.js, Django, or Laravel for scalability.
- Database: PostgreSQL, Firebase, or MongoDB for efficient data handling.
- Payments: Stripe, PayPal, Razorpay for secure transactions.
- AI Integration: AI in food delivery app helps with personalized recommendations, demand forecasting, and automated customer support.
Step 3: UI/UX Design – Creating a Seamless User Experience
A well-designed UI/UX plays a major role in user retention and engagement. The app must be:
- Simple & Intuitive – Easy navigation for faster order placement.
- Visually Appealing – Use high-quality images, clear CTAs, and modern design elements.
- Optimized for Speed – Users should be able to browse, add items to cart, and checkout quickly.
Wireframing and prototyping help visualize how users interact with the app before development begins.
Step 4: Development – Building the App’s Architecture
Once the design is finalized, the development phase begins. It involves front-end and back-end development, ensuring smooth functionality across all platforms.
Key Development Stages:
- Frontend Development: Coding the app’s interface for iOS, Android, and web.
- Backend Development: Creating databases, APIs, and payment integrations.
- Integration of AI & Automation: AI-powered order recommendations, chatbot support, and route optimization.
- Security & Compliance: Implement secure payment gateways, data encryption, and GDPR compliance for user data protection.
Step 5: Testing & Quality Assurance
Before launching, the app must go through rigorous testing to eliminate bugs and performance issues.
Types of Testing:
- Functional Testing: Ensuring all features work correctly (ordering, payments, tracking).
- Usability Testing: Checking how user-friendly the app is.
- Performance Testing: Measuring speed, loading time, and server response.
- Security Testing: Protecting customer data, payment details, and transaction safety.
Testing ensures a bug-free, smooth user experience before launching the app.
Step 6: Deployment & Launch
Once the app is fully tested and optimized, it is deployed to the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android).
Key Considerations for a Successful Launch:
- App Store Optimization (ASO) – Optimize app title, description, and keywords for visibility.
- Marketing & Promotion – Use social media, paid ads, and influencer partnerships to increase downloads.
- User Onboarding & Support – Provide a quick tutorial for new users and offer customer support for issue resolution.
Step 7: Post-Launch Monitoring & Future Enhancements
After launch, continuous monitoring and updates are necessary to improve user engagement.
Post-Launch Activities:
- User Feedback Analysis: Implement changes based on customer reviews.
- Performance Optimization: Fix bugs, improve speed, and update UI elements.
- Feature Enhancements: Add advanced features like AI-driven chatbots, voice ordering, and drone deliveries to stay competitive.
By consistently updating the app, businesses can ensure growth, scalability, and long-term success in the food delivery industry.
Developing a food delivery app like Jahez requires careful planning, development, and continuous improvement. From defining features and integrating AI to optimizing user experience and post-launch monitoring, every step plays a crucial role in building a successful platform.
By following this structured approach, businesses can create a high-performing, scalable, and competitive food delivery app that meets the needs of modern consumers.
How Much it Does Cost to Develop a Food Delivery App Like Jahez
The cost to develop a food delivery app like Jahez depends on multiple factors, including features, technology stack, development team location, and app complexity. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, understanding the cost breakdown is essential for planning your budget effectively.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in food delivery app development.
1. Key Factors That Affect the Cost of a Food Delivery App
Several factors influence the overall cost of building a food delivery app, including:
1.1 App Complexity & Features
The more advanced features you integrate, the higher the cost. Basic apps with essential functions will be more affordable, while feature-rich platforms with AI, analytics, and custom integrations require a larger budget.
- Basic App: Simple UI, restaurant listing, order placement, and payment integration.
- Medium-Complexity App: Real-time tracking, push notifications, loyalty programs, and chat support.
- Advanced App: AI-powered recommendations, automated dispatch, analytics dashboard, and machine learning-based pricing.
1.2 Development Platform (Android, iOS, or Both)
Building a food delivery app for both iOS and Android requires separate development efforts unless you use cross-platform frameworks like Flutter or React Native.
- Native app development (iOS + Android): Higher cost but better performance.
- Cross-platform development: More cost-effective, but may have minor performance trade-offs.
1.3 UI/UX Design Complexity
A well-designed app with intuitive navigation is crucial for user retention. The cost increases with custom animations, interactive elements, and premium visuals.
1.4 Development Team Location
The cost of hiring developers varies by region:
- USA & Canada: $80 – $150 per hour
- UK & Europe: $60 – $120 per hour
- UAE & Middle East: $50 – $100 per hour
- India & Southeast Asia: $25 – $60 per hour
Outsourcing to reliable food delivery app development services in regions like India can significantly reduce costs while maintaining quality.
1.5 Technology Stack & Third-Party Integrations
Choosing the right tech stack impacts development costs:
- Frontend: React Native, Flutter, Swift, Kotlin
- Backend: Node.js, Django, Laravel
- Database: PostgreSQL, Firebase, MongoDB
- Payment Gateways: Stripe, PayPal, Razorpay
- AI & Machine Learning: TensorFlow, Google AI APIs (if using AI-powered features)
Additionally, integrating Google Maps for real-time tracking, Twilio for SMS notifications, and cloud services like AWS or Firebase can add to the development cost.
2. Estimated Cost Breakdown for a Food Delivery App Like Jahez
The following is an approximate cost breakdown based on app complexity:
| Feature/Stage | Basic App ($15K – $30K) | Medium App ($30K – $60K) | Advanced App ($60K – $150K) |
| UI/UX Design | $3K – $6K | $6K – $12K | $12K – $25K |
| Frontend & Backend Dev | $6K – $12K | $15K – $30K | $30K – $70K |
| Payment Integration | $2K – $5K | $5K – $10K | $10K – $20K |
| Real-Time Tracking | $3K – $7K | $7K – $12K | $12K – $25K |
| AI & Automation | Not included | $10K – $20K | $25K – $50K |
| Testing & QA | $2K – $4K | $5K – $8K | $8K – $15K |
| Deployment & Maintenance | $2K – $3K | $4K – $6K | $6K – $12K |
Total Estimated Cost:
- Basic App: $15,000 – $30,000
- Medium-Complexity App: $30,000 – $60,000
- Advanced App: $60,000 – $150,000
3. Hidden Costs to Consider
Aside from development, there are ongoing costs that businesses need to account for:
- App Maintenance & Updates: 15%–20% of the initial development cost per year.
- Cloud Hosting & Servers: $500 – $3,000 per month (AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure).
- Marketing & Promotions: $5,000 – $50,000 (based on ad campaigns and outreach strategies).
- Customer Support & Operations: Ongoing expenses for chatbots, help desks, and human support teams.
4. Cost Optimization Tips for Food Delivery App Development
If you want to develop a food delivery app like Jahez while keeping costs under control, consider these strategies:
- Start with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product): Focus on essential features first, then scale.
- Use Cross-Platform Development: Frameworks like Flutter or React Native reduce development costs.
- Outsource Development: Hiring experienced food delivery app development services from cost-effective regions like India or Eastern Europe can lower costs without compromising quality.
- Leverage Third-Party APIs: Instead of building complex features from scratch, use APIs for payments, maps, and analytics.
Developing a food delivery app like Jahez requires careful financial planning. The total cost depends on the app’s complexity, features, technology stack, and development approach. By prioritizing core functionalities and cost-effective development solutions, businesses can build a scalable and profitable food delivery app while staying within budget.
Partnering with an experienced food delivery app development company can help optimize costs and ensure high-quality results. Carefully assessing requirements, starting with an MVP, and leveraging cost-effective technologies can make food delivery app development more efficient and profitable.
Conclusion
The food delivery industry is evolving rapidly, and businesses must embrace digital solutions to stay competitive. Whether you’re a restaurant owner, startup, or enterprise, investing in food delivery app development like Jahez ensures higher revenue, better customer reach, and operational efficiency.
This guide covered:
- Why businesses need a food delivery app and the benefits of digital transformation.
- Monetization strategies like commissions, subscriptions, and advertising for long-term profitability.
- Essential features such as real-time tracking, AI-based recommendations, and multiple payment options.
- A structured step-by-step development process, from research to deployment.
- A cost breakdown with factors affecting budget and cost-saving strategies.
At Kody Technolab Limited, we specialize in custom food delivery app development, offering AI-powered, scalable, and cost-efficient solutions. Our team ensures seamless UI/UX, advanced automation, and ongoing support to help you develop a food delivery app like Jahez that drives growth.
