Everything delivery apps are no longer the new norm. Today, people love apps like Gojek and Careem as they help them get anything delivered at their doorsteps. From hot meals to healthcare services, users want quick access to everything. The growing use of a multi-service app has encouraged businesses to turn towards a digital model. Entrepreneurs in the MENA also need to choose the right multi-service model to ensure continuous business.
Selecting a multi-service model means finding answers to different questions, like:
- Which approach works best in MENA?
- Whether to invest in a Careem clone or a Gojek clone?
- Which model to choose for business?
If you're also juggling all these questions, this blog is for you. Here, we break down the Careem business model and the Gojek revenue model to help you select the best for your on-demand multi-services app.
Quick Snapshot of Each Model
Looking for MENA super app development? If yes, then your first step must be choosing the right strategy for your multi-service app. Your selection can make or break your business in the competitive MENA market.
No matter whether you want to follow the successful path of Gojek (a Southeast Asian super-app) or Careem (Dubai-based everything delivery app), understanding its core philosophy makes all the difference. The growth strategy of both market giants is different. Gojek is a multi-service ecosystem, while Careem scales outward from mobility. Let's understand more about each model for a successful Super App MENA launch.
Careem Model (Mobility-First Super App)
The foundation of the Careem business model is mobility. The company started as a ride-hailing platform in the Middle East, competing with Uber. Mobility core helped the company win massive users' trust and expand into a full-scale multi-service app. Careem's continuous evolution helped the digital platform to win the title of influential super app.
Telecom giant e& acquired a majority stake in Careem. This approach of a $400 million investment helped Careem accelerate its expansion in different areas, including:
- Payments
- Home services
Although Uber sells a 400 million stake in Careem, the Careem Rides will be owned by an American multinational transportation company. Uber acquired Careem for approximately $3 billion. This move helped the platform to be at the top of customers' minds in the Middle East & North Africa market.
Operating in more than ten countries, Careem holds approximately 80% share. Major cities of operation are Dubai & Riyadh. The platform's continuous success proves that a mobility-first approach works well.
Careem Business Model success gives a clear map that starting with a single service like taxi-booking and later expanding to multiple services is a worthwhile option. It facilitates brands like yours to expand into a multi-service ecosystem in a competitive market.
Build the Right Super App from Day One
We help you map the right Careem- or Gojek-style architecture tailored to MENA regulations, local payments, and multi-service scalability.
Gojek Model (Ecosystem-First Super App)
A multi-sided platform model of Gojek is completely different from Careem. Gojek, known as a super of today, begins with a multi-service ecosystem from the start. This ecosystem-first strategy makes Gojek's diversified revenue engines in the global on-demand economy. A Gojek business model focuses on:
- Building an all-in-one service marketplace
- Increase user frequency by integrating micro-services
- Creating a strong supply ecosystem
Gojek operates in four major countries:
- Indonesia
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Philippines
Gojek offers multiple services, including:
- GoRide
- GoCar
- GoFood
- GoSend
- GoMart
- GoPay
On-demand multi-services offering helped the company to win the most comprehensive super apps title globally. A Gojek revenue model helped the company to gain a 29% year-on-year increase in Financial-Technology Monthly Transacting Users. An Indonesian on-demand multi-service platform has more than 190 million downloads globally.
Careem Clone Vs. Gojek Clone: Which Multi-Service App Model for Your Business?
The MENA region is catching up quickly with the growing super app usage. The MENA super app market in 2023 generated around 5 million in revenue. The market is expected to jump high by 28% CAGR and show no sign of slowing down between 2024 and 2032. This clearly shows that opportunities are open for entrepreneurs who are seeking to invest in MENA super app development.
Source: (Grand View Research)
But success depends on which model you choose. Whether you go for the Careem business model or the Gojek revenue model, both have proven records. What changes everything is how the market reacts and how user behaviour in MENA. To help you make money-making decisions, we help you select a model that aligns with your goals.
Careem Clone– Mobility-First Model
The Careem business model begins with a strong foundation in transportation. After establishing a successful user base with ride-hailing services, Careem entered into other verticals. This approach decreases risk and allows you to target the right audience.
Careem clone follows a similar strategy to the Dubai-based super-app. You can start with a single service offering and later expand to a multi-service business. This model is effective in MENA because:
- Ride-hailing services are always in demand in MENA cities.
- Decrease in CAC (Customer Acquisition Cost) as mobility helps acquire users faster.
- After winning trust and gaining success with one service, you can test with another of your choice.
Following a strategy similar to an app like Careem allows you to scale gradually while testing market readiness.
Gojek Clone– Ecosystem-First Model
An ecosystem-first super app -Gojek helped the company to launch an all-in-one digital marketplace from the very beginning. The strategy revolves around creating a platform where users can access multiple services without leaving the app.
The company's early commitment to multi-service integration is what makes the Gojek revenue model so powerful. An Indonesian on-demand multi-service platform ecosystem is designed to cover daily needs. With an on-demand multi-services offering, Gojek ensures the app is downloaded and used by multiple users.
The platform works on a simple approach: more interaction = more revenue potential. Solid partner network and millions of drivers connected to the Gojek network help the company to grow in Southeast Asia.
Gojek clone also works on partner-driven infrastructure, which allows you to operate efficiently. The easy-to-use platform like Gojek, facilitates you to provide multiple services on a single platform. Also benefits you with:
- Get more Gojek clone app users.
- Test diverse money-making options.
This Gojek revenue model and business are ideal for entrepreneurs who are looking to launch a multi-service business. It's a diversified strategy built for brands like you, supporting high user interaction and relying on quick, everyday services.
Winner:
- Careem Clone for step-by-step expansion
- Gojek Clone for rapid ecosystem creation
Market Approach
Careem Clone Strategy
A Carrem-like app focuses on transportation services. This strategic approach includes the following:
- Start with car-based taxi-hailing services
- Offer high reliability
- Opt for regional culture and regulations
Demand for ride-hailing services in the MENA region is on fire due to customers' growing demand for convenience. Ride-hailing platforms like Uber & Careem are growing faster, with Saudi Arabia leading the way as the top market.
Gojek Clone Strategy
With a Gojek clone app, you can scale in all directions from the very beginning. You can try this model to grow in regions with dense populations.
Winner:
- Go for a Careem-like platform in the MENA region.
- An app like Gojek for markets with high service frequency
Service Ecosystem
Careem Clone Ecosystem
On-demand multi-services like Careem help you build an ecosystem over time. Typical services include:
- Taxi-haling
- Meal delivery
- Grocery delivery
- Courier
- Careem Pay
- Daily essentials
Launching the super app MENA is a great choice for businesses that are starting up.
Gojek Clone Ecosystem
A Gojek clone app is perfect for brands looking to offer a wider range of services instantly, these include:
- Bike & car rides
- GoFood
- GoMart
- GoSend
- GoMed
- GoClean
- GoLaundry
- GoAuto
- GoPay wallet
A self-sustaining digital ecosystem helps you create high user engagement.
Winner:
- Gojek-like solution to launch a multi-service app offering from day one.
- Careem clone app for controlled expansion.
Revenue Model
Careem Revenue Model: How a Multi-Services App Makes Money?
- Delivery cost
- Ride commissions
- Merchant commissions
- Subscription-based services
- Payment charges
- Value-added services
Making money following the Careem revenue model is quite easy.
Gojek Revenue Model: How a Multi-Service App Makes Money?
You can offer multiple services to make money through various ways, including:
- GoPay wallet fees
- Merchant partnerships
- In-app advertisements
- Loyalty programs
- Financial services
The more the revenue-making opportunities = the more money-making potential.
Winner:
- More money-making choices with an app like Gojek.
- Simpler monetization with a Careem clone.
User Experience & Frequency
Improved Experience with Careem Clone
Adding more services to an app like Careem results in more user frequency. But ride-hailing services remain the core service offering for user engagement. Users mainly rely on the Careem clone app for:
- Daily commuting
- Occasional orders
- Service growth with increased engagement
Improved Experience with Gojek Clone
Offering multiple services under one roof = making your users open your multi-service app multiple times. Users interact with your Gojek-like Super app for multiple reasons, including:
- Ordering food
- Paying bills
- Sending a courier
- Booking a cleaning service
- Using the wallet
The more services you offer, the higher the user retention is.
Winner:
- Higher engagement with the Gojek clone
- Simple onboarding with a Careem-like solution
MENA Super App Development: Steps to Follow
You need a strong market understanding with a structured MENA super app development approach to launch successfully. Whether you're choosing the Careem model or the Gojek model, you need to move ahead with steps to build a high-performing multi-service app tailored for MENA’s fast-growing economy.
- Define Your Core Model
- Validate Your Primary Use Case
- Choose the Right Tech Stack
- Build a Modular Architecture
- Integrate Region-Specific Digital Payments
- Build a Strong Partner Network
- Implement Real-Time Automation
- Comply With Licensing for Your Region
- Launch a Minimum Viable Product
- Scale Services & Optimize Performance
- Promote Your Super App With Regional Marketing
- Continuously Innovate
On-Demand Multi-Services Businesses: Which Model to Choose for the MENA Region?
The multi-service app is growing WorldWide, and the MENA region is not an exception. On-demand multi-services create immense opportunities for brands ready to innovate. Choosing the right super app model is the backbone of long-term success. Both Careem Clone and the Gojek Clone offer perfect pathways, but the right choice depends on your growth vision.
Want fast entry into the MENA market? Go for the Careem model, but if your goal is to create an all-in-one ecosystem, the Gojek model is the perfect option. Be it starting with one service or multiple offerings, choosing the right strategy matters the most. Go for one that aligns with your business goals and your targeted audience.
Besides choosing the right model, you need to partner with the right MENA super app development company like us. A clear roadmap helps you turn your idea into a successful multi-service app. Just email us at [email protected] to launch your super app today. The next big success story starts with the right super app development team - one that understands the MENA market and knows how to turn ideas into scalable digital ecosystems, and it's White Label Fox.
Frequently Ask Questions
Why not? The difference between a Careem-like solution and an app like Gojek is their offerings.
Gojek clone model -ecosystem-first structure
Careem clone model -mobility-first approach
An app like Careem has the same functionalities as a Dubai-based super-app, best for startups that want to launch with a single service. An app like Gojek is for those who are looking to launch a successful on-demand multi-services business.
- Ride-hailing operations
- Commercial licensing
- Fintech & payments
- Data protection
- Cybersecurity laws
Viral Kacha – CEO & Sales Head
Author
With years of expertise in the on-demand app industry, Viral Kacha leads White Label Fox with a vision to empower startups and enterprises with top-tier, ready-made app solutions. His strategic approach, strong leadership, and deep market understanding drive business growth, innovation, and client success. He is dedicated to helping businesses scale efficiently with cutting-edge technology.
