How to Develop a Discount Shopping App Like Sahseh?

In today’s eCommerce-driven world, shoppers are smarter, savvier, and constantly on the lookout for the best deals. This shift has fueled the explosive growth of discount shopping apps that help consumers save both time and money. Among the frontrunners in this space is Sahseh, a wildly popular app in the Middle East that specializes in providing real-time discount codes and cashback offers for hundreds of online stores. With its growing popularity and proven user appeal, many entrepreneurs and businesses are now exploring how to develop a shopping app like Sahseh- an app that not only delivers value to users but also opens up new revenue streams in the thriving discount and cashback economy.

With over a million downloads and high ratings across platforms, Sahseh has tapped into the GCC and Egyptian markets by offering a seamless coupon discovery and redemption experience. But what if you wanted to build a similar app tailored to your target audience?

In this blog, we’ll break down how to develop shopping app like Sahseh. From must-have features and monetization models to tech stack and cost, we’ll provide a comprehensive roadmap to bring your idea to life. Whether you’re a startup founder or a digital agency looking to expand your offerings, this guide will help you understand what it takes to launch a successful coupon app.

What is Sahseh? – App Overview & Market Positioning 

Sahseh, launched in 2019 by a Saudi-based company, is one of the leading discount shopping apps in the GCC region and Egypt. Available on both Android and iOS, it boasts over 1 million installs, a 4.4+ average rating, and supports more than 1,000 online stores.

Its mission is simple yet powerful: to help users save money effortlessly. With a constantly updated database of discount codes, cashback deals, and deep linking to online stores, Sahseh has become the go-to platform for savvy digital shoppers. The app also allows store owners to submit their own coupons, turning Sahseh into a dynamic, community-powered ecosystem.

From global brands like Amazon and Adidas to regional favorites like Noon, Mrsool, and HungerStation, Sahseh provides a wide array of options across multiple categories including fashion, electronics, beauty, delivery, and lifestyle.

What sets Sahseh apart is its localized experience, including Arabic language support, geo-targeted deals, and easy-to-use interface tailored for the Middle Eastern user base. This strategic positioning has helped it dominate a niche market where users are price-conscious but also tech-savvy.

Why Develop Shopping App Like Sahseh? 

Creating an app like Sahseh isn’t just about entering the coupon game—it’s about seizing a booming market opportunity. Here’s why now is a great time to invest in this niche:

1. Rising Online Shopping Trends

With the surge in eCommerce across the GCC and MENA regions, consumers are increasingly shopping online. From groceries to gadgets, digital platforms are now central to consumer behavior.

2. Value-Conscious Consumers

Post-pandemic consumer behavior has shifted dramatically. More users now compare prices, seek discounts, and wait for deals before making purchases.

3. Untapped Local Market

While global players like Honey and RetailMeNot dominate Western markets, localized apps like Sahseh cater specifically to regional needs, currencies, and shopping habits.

4. Monetization Potential

Affiliate commissions, sponsored deals, and data insights provide multiple income streams.

5. Low Barrier to Entry for MVP

With the right development team and affiliate integrations, you can launch a minimum viable product (MVP) relatively quickly and cost-effectively.

In essence, a discount shopping app has strong monetization potential, high user engagement, and low churn if executed well. It’s not just a tool for consumers—it’s a full-fledged business opportunity.

Essential Features to Develop a Discount Shopping App Like Sahseh

A successful discount shopping app must strike the perfect balance between user satisfaction, operational efficiency, and monetization. Below is a breakdown of essential features across users, merchants, and admin perspectives:

User Features

• Easy Registration/Login: Provide multiple sign-in options such as email, phone OTP, Google, or Apple accounts. Simplicity drives sign-ups.
• Smart Search & Filters: Allow users to filter by category (e.g., fashion, delivery, electronics), location, popularity, and store name. Implement autosuggestions.
• Copy & Redirect: One-click coupon copy with direct deep links to the target store’s promo or checkout page. Reduce friction in the user journey.
• Cashback Wallet: Users can track earned cashback, withdrawal eligibility, and redemption history. Optional gift card exchange.
• Push Notifications: Real-time alerts for trending deals, expiring coupons, cashback updates, and flash sales.
• Language Options: Bilingual or multilingual support (Arabic/English) ensures accessibility for regional users.
• User Ratings/Reviews: Let users mark coupons as “worked” or “expired” to maintain quality.
• Favorites/Bookmarking: Allow users to save coupons or stores for later.

Merchant Features

• Merchant Dashboard: Let verified stores log in and manage their offers.
• Bulk Coupon Upload: Excel/CSV import for stores with hundreds of codes.
• Analytics: View coupon performance, CTR, redemptions, and ROI.
• Featured Promo Tools: Paid boosts for higher visibility within the app.
• Auto Expiry Tools: Merchants can set start and end dates for campaigns.

Admin Panel Features

• User Management: Control access levels, permissions, and user data.
• Coupon Moderation: Approve, decline, or auto-verify coupons.
• Real-Time Analytics: Monitor coupon usage, store performance, and peak activity times.
• Support Center Integration: Chatbots or support ticketing system for issue resolution.
• Payout Controls: Manage affiliate payouts, cashback releases, and merchant billing cycles.

These features ensure the app delivers a seamless and scalable experience.

Advanced Features to Stay Competitive 

While basic coupon delivery is essential, incorporating advanced technologies and engagement tools will help your app stand out in a crowded market. Here are some enhancements to consider:

• AI-Powered Deal Recommendations: Use machine learning to personalize coupons based on browsing behavior, redemption history, and preferences.
• Geo-Fencing for Local Deals: Trigger localized push notifications or exclusive coupons when users enter specific regions, malls, or store vicinities.
• Gamified Engagement:
  • Spin-the-wheel for random deals
  • Scratch-and-reveal rewards
  • Streak bonuses for daily app usage
• QR Code & NFC Support: Allow users to redeem in-store coupons by scanning a QR code or tapping via NFC.
• Referral Engine: Create viral growth loops with trackable, incentivized referrals (e.g., get 10% extra cashback for every friend you invite).
• Offline Access: Allow users to view recently saved or downloaded coupons without needing an internet connection.
• Coupon Expiry Reminders: Send automated alerts for coupons nearing their end date.
• Voice Search: Let users find coupons by speaking store names or categories.

These innovations increase user retention, conversion rates, and app shareability.

Monetization Strategies

The true power of a discount shopping app lies in its ability to generate revenue while helping users save. Here’s a deeper look at various monetization methods:

1. Affiliate Marketing

Earn commissions when users shop via your referral links. Most brands and marketplaces like Amazon, Noon, and Shein support affiliate partnerships via platforms like Rakuten, Admitad, and CJ.

2. Sponsored Listings and Promotions

Merchants pay to get their offers featured in priority spots (home page, banners, category tops). Dynamic pricing can be applied based on store popularity or time slots.

3. In-App Advertisements

Integrate platforms like AdMob or Facebook Audience Network for non-intrusive ad placements. Opt for native ads that blend into the app layout.

4. Freemium Model

Offer a premium membership with benefits like ad-free experience, exclusive coupons, and early access to flash deals.

5. Cashback Margins

Earn from the margin between the affiliate commission received and cashback paid to the user. Smart cashback systems often yield profit margins.

6. Analytics-as-a-Service

Package anonymous user behavior and category trends into insights that brands can subscribe to for a fee.

A combination of these streams will future-proof your revenue strategy.

Step-by-Step Process Develop Shopping App Like Sahseh

1. Market Research

Analyze your target demographic, competitors (like Sahseh, Honey, and Picodi), user pain points, and preferred features. Use surveys, app reviews, and social media insights to build your app strategy.

2. Feature Planning

Outline must-have and advanced features, and map them to user stories. Categorize them into MVP and post-launch priorities.

3. UI/UX Design

Design a simple, clean interface focusing on Arabic and English usability. Wireframes and clickable prototypes help validate your approach.

4. Tech Stack Selection

• Frontend: Flutter or React Native
• Backend: Node.js or Django
• Database: PostgreSQL or MongoDB
• Affiliate Integration: Rakuten, CJ, Admitad APIs
• Analytics & Notifications: Firebase, Mixpanel, OneSignal

5. App Development

Use Agile methodology. Break the build into 2–3 sprints for MVP, followed by additional releases based on feedback.

6. QA Testing

Conduct manual and automated testing for functional bugs, UI issues, performance bottlenecks, and security vulnerabilities.

7. Deployment

Publish on Play Store and App Store. Focus on ASO with local keywords. Use social media, press releases, and influencer campaigns to drive installs.

Estimated Development Cost

Component	Estimated Cost (USD)
Design (UI/UX)	$3,000–5,000
Mobile App Development	$12,000–20,000
Backend Development	$5,000–8,000
Affiliate Integrations	$2,000–4,000
Testing & QA	$2,000–3,000
Admin Panel	$3,000–5,000
Marketing & Launch	$2,000–5,000
Total	$30,000–50,000

This range depends on the complexity, team location, and feature scope.

Ideal Tech Stack

To ensure fast, scalable, and cost-efficient development, consider this stack:

• Frontend: Flutter or React Native (cross-platform)
• Backend: Node.js (event-driven) or Django (secure and fast)
• Database: PostgreSQL for structured data or MongoDB for flexibility
• APIs: Affiliate networks (Admitad, CJ, Rakuten)
• Cloud: AWS or Firebase for scalability
• Push Notifications: Firebase Cloud Messaging or OneSignal
• Analytics: Google Analytics, Mixpanel
• Admin Panel: React + Firebase/Auth0 + Chart.js

Challenges in Building a Coupon App 

Building and maintaining a discount shopping app isn’t all smooth sailing. Below are key challenges to prepare for:

1. Coupon Freshness & Validity

Outdated or expired coupons frustrate users. You’ll need automated systems and active merchant communication to maintain accuracy.

2. Affiliate Integration Complexity

Different affiliate networks come with varying APIs, policies, and reporting formats. Standardizing them into a uniform backend is resource-intensive.

3. Brand Partnership Onboarding

Convincing merchants to join your platform—especially early on—requires a strong pitch, case studies, or trial incentives.

4. Fraud & Abuse

Users may try to game referral systems or cashback rules. Implement anti-fraud logic like device fingerprinting, transaction validation, and usage caps.

5. User Data Security

Handling personal data and financial transactions means adhering to global standards (GDPR, CCPA) and ensuring encryption and secure storage.

6. Scaling Infrastructure

If your app experiences sudden spikes (e.g., during a holiday sale), your servers and APIs must scale without crashing or lagging.

Solving these problems requires both strong tech and strategic foresight.

Tips for Scaling & Retaining Users 

Growth is only half the battle—keeping users engaged and active is where long-term success lies. Here are battle-tested tips:

1. Hyper-Localization

Curate region-specific deals (e.g., Dubai delivery discounts, Riyadh fashion brands). Tailor notifications based on city or user language.

2. Gamification-Driven Loyalty Programs

Turn savings into rewards. For example, each coupon used earns XP points, and users unlock badges or tiers like “Saver Pro.”

3. Push Notification Strategy

Send personalized, non-intrusive alerts like:

• “You have unredeemed cashback!”
• “Flash deal ending in 2 hours!”
• “Top 3 coupons used in your area today.”

4. Community Engagement

Launch social sharing features so users can share coupons on WhatsApp, Telegram, or Instagram Stories. Add a blog or coupon tips section.

5. Email + SMS Funnels

Automate drip campaigns for:

• New user onboarding
• Re-engagement after inactivity
• Big deal announcements

6. Influencer Marketing & Partnerships

Work with local influencers, deal bloggers, and YouTube reviewers. Offer affiliate links or exclusive promo codes.

User retention thrives when you combine useful content, smart incentives, and timely communication.

Conclusion

Develop shopping app like Sahseh is more than replicating features—it’s about understanding your target market, delivering value consistently, and scaling smartly. With growing digital retail in MENA and other emerging markets, the demand for coupon-driven apps will only rise.

Whether you’re targeting a niche category (like food delivery) or a broader multi-category platform, focus on personalization, freshness of offers, and ease of redemption. Combine affiliate monetization with data analytics and community building to create a sustainable business.

If you’re planning to launch your own discount app, now is the perfect time. With the right tech, team, and timing—you could become the next Sahseh.

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