How Much Does it Cost to Develop a Video Streaming Platform Like OSN+ in the MENA Region?

The MENA region has given rise to potentially one of the most vibrant digital transformation hotspots: the development of video streaming services. With an increasing demand for on-demand entertainment, video streaming platform developments like OSN+ attract millions in the region by providing content and a completely personalized viewing experience for distinct tastes and preferences. 

As stated by Statista, the video streaming industry will grow phenomenally and is expected to show a high growth rate of around 6.27 percent from 2025 to 2029, helping push the market value to around USD 6.62 billion by 2029. This fast-evolving scene resounds a vital question to the ears of budding entrepreneurs and businesses: it is no longer about whether to invest in a streaming platform but how one intends. 

Before diving into the exhilarating field, consider one central issue: understanding the financial underpinning to take your idea a notch higher.

The real battle lies with playing the economic angle right-it becomes all the more convoluted when developing, launching, and maintaining a complex and diverse platform in a region that is not just complex but also diverse. Consumer preferences, technical infrastructure, and competitive pressure influence your actions.

The cost to develop a video streaming platform like OSN+ ranges from $50,000 to $300,000+ [183650 to 1101900+ AED]. But why such a wide range? It all comes down to the scope and scale of your project. 

This blog will unpack the layers of investment needed to build a streaming platform like OSN+ app. We will also look into the factors that can escalate development costs and explore cost-effective strategies for building a high-quality app that meets modern streaming demands and enhances user engagement.

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Overview: Video Streaming Platform like OSN+ App

OSN+ is the most exclusive destination, boasting a diverse collection of films, series, Hollywood blockbusters, and the best in Arabic cinema, spanning 22 countries.

Streaming on OSN+ becomes an engaging experience. Viewers can dive into the content they love- their favorite movies and series- anytime, anywhere, and on any device. This platform has a rich entertainment offering from the latest productions from HBO, Paramount, Universal, and OSN+ Originals.

Arabic drama, Turkish series, Hollywood hits: OSN+ caters to all entertainment cravings. The platform ensures accessibility with Arabic dubbing and subtitles, thus catering to a multitude of viewer preferences. The OSN+ app includes a curation of over 10,000 hours of premium content targeted at entertaining every family member.

Why is the OSN+ App Popular Among the Public?

Family-Friendly Features: Enter the Kids Mode with parental controls for before-bed real-time viewings.

Multiple Profiles: Users can create up to 5 profiles and stream on five devices simultaneously.

Personalized Recommendations: Viewers can see suggested series and movies they would love to enjoy based on their viewing habits.

Breakdown of Cost to Develop a Video Streaming Platform Like OSN+

As revealed earlier, the overall cost to develop a Video Streaming Platform Like OSN+ can vary from $50,000 to $300,000. When planning to create a similar video streaming platform like OSN+, it’s essential to understand the various cost factors that will impact your budget. These costs vary widely depending on the app’s complexity and development phases. 

Breakdown of Costs Based on Complexity

The expense associated with creating a video streaming platform similar to OSN+ varies based on its complexity:

Essential Attributes

Restricted content collection and user profiles.

Price: $30,000–$50,000.

Intermediate Attributes

Customized suggestions and high-tier memberships.

Expense: $60,000–$100,000.

Enhanced Capabilities

AI-powered recommendations, offline access, and cross-device syncing.

Price: $150,000–$300,000.

Creating a content streaming application similar to OSN+ with enhanced features guarantees increased user interaction.

Breakdown of Costs by Development Stages

UI/UX Design

Creating user-friendly and captivating interfaces is crucial for the development of streaming applications. An effectively crafted OSN+ app guarantees smooth navigation, boosts user contentment, and provides tailored suggestions and cross-device compatibility functionalities.

Backend Development

Creating a scalable platform with a resilient infrastructure is essential for seamless streaming on a video streaming platform like OSN+. Effective backend systems oversee the delivery of top-notch content, data storage, and instantaneous user engagements, guaranteeing seamless service for various audiences.

Testing and Launch

This is crucial in creating a video streaming service such as OSN+. Implementing thorough testing strategies guarantees that every feature, such as streaming quality, user interface, and security, operates perfectly. The procedure encompasses troubleshooting, enhancing performance, and conducting user acceptance testing (UAT) before the official release to ensure a smooth experience for users.

How Do You Calculate the Video Streaming Platform Development Cost?

Typically, costs are calculated by multiplying the hours expected for each task by the development team’s hourly rate plus any additional fees for materials and miscellaneous expenses. Here is a quick formula to estimate the cost to develop a video streaming app: 

Total Cost to Develop a Video Streaming Platform Like OSN+ = (Number of Hours × Hourly Rate) + Cost of Materials+  Miscellaneous Expenses

Key Cost Factors to develop video streaming platform like OSN+

In 20 MENA countries, SVOD earnings are anticipated to increase by $2.3 billion, totaling $4 billion by 2027, showcasing the region’s expanding video streaming capabilities. Establishing a platform similar to OSN+ entails multiple expenses, including development, interface design, hosting, and content licensing. Budgeting relies on elements like platform scale, functionalities, and market requirements.

Development Costs

Platforms like OSN plus development cost, in various forms, include the cost of designing the platform through establishing the User Interface, developing the backend, and connecting the system to, let’s say, a payment processor and content management system. The company will allot considerable costs to hiring software developers, designers, and project managers for this to happen.

• UI/UX Design: The sophisticated design team could cost between USD 10,000 and 50,000 concerning the engineering complexity of the platform.
• Platform Advancement: For a platform to be sturdy and extensible, it should cost anywhere between USD 50,000 to 150,000, depending on the features and where and who is developing it.
• Backend Integration: Integrating with payment systems, CDNs, and various backend services may incur extra costs ranging from $20,000 to $50,000.
• Infrastructure for Backend Development: Building robust servers, managing databases, and ensuring high-performance streaming directly influences development expenses.
• Incorporating External Services: Developing APIs for payment processing, analytics, and enhanced streaming quality significantly affects development costs while offering essential functionalities.

Third-Party Integration Costs

The charge for integrating with third-party services, including payment gateways, analytics tools, CRM systems, or APIs for advanced features, is reasonable, depending on what functionalities are added to the platform. This factor immensely influences the performance of the video streaming platform like OSN+ and user experience. 

• Payment Gateway Integration: The monetary figure largely depends on the nature and extent of complex systems implementation within a region, including integrating a wide range of payment systems, including Stripe, PayPal, or Razorpay. The cost ranges from $10,000 to $25,000.
• Analytics and Monitoring tools: The cost starts around $5,000 and goes up to $15,000 for adding analytics platforms like Google Analytics or Mixpanel, depending on the customization and data structure.
• Content Management System (CMS): Integrating an easily manageable CMS such as WordPress or building a custom CMS to handle larger volumes of content may incur costs of nearly $15,000 up to $30,000, depending on the content volume and the functionalities required.
• API development and integration: For external APIs, including services based on location, social media integration, or real-time communication, costs have been estimated at $20,000 to $50,000, depending on the level and type of customization.

Read Also: Guide to API Development – Tools, Working and Best Practices 

• License fees for third-party services: Some third-party tools or APIs come with an annual or monthly licensing fee added for having continual costs of around $5,000 to $20,000 per year, depending on the service provider.

Advanced Technologies Costs

Platforms like OSN+ invest heavily in advanced technologies to ensure seamless streaming, superior content delivery, and enhanced user experiences. These costs include incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, ML, blockchain for security, and advanced data analytics to optimize platform performance and improve user engagement.

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Integration: Implementing AI and ML for fraud detection, personalized content recommendations, and advanced search capabilities could range from $30,000 to $100,000, depending on the complexity and customization required.
• Streaming Technology and Encoding Costs: To deliver high-quality streaming (e.g., 4K or HDR), platforms need advanced encoding and compression technologies, costing between $50,000 and $120,000 based on the desired streaming resolution and scalability.
• Content Delivery Network (CDN) Optimization: A robust CDN infrastructure for smooth global content delivery can cost between $20,000 and $80,000, depending on the number of regions and traffic volume.
• Blockchain for Security and Rights Management: For content protection and digital rights management (DRM), implementing blockchain technology for transactional security may range from $40,000 to $90,000, ensuring secure transactions and intellectual property management.
• Advanced Analytics and Data Insights: Developing a comprehensive analytics dashboard for user behavior insights, content performance tracking, and decision-making requires an investment of $30,000 to $70,000, tailored to the depth of data analysis needed.

Immersive Technologies: Incorporating immersive technologies like AR/VR for innovative viewing experiences or live event streaming might cost $50,000 to $150,000, depending on the features and their level of integration.

Content Licensing and Production

Acquiring licenses for content from major studios and securing rights to beloved TV shows, films, and sports events represents one of the largest ongoing expenses for a streaming platform. The licensing cost differs based on the content type and the region’s market.

• Global Content: Gaining rights to global content (such as Hollywood movies and international TV series) can amount to millions of dollars, with certain agreements exceeding $1 million annually for each title.
• Regional Content: Acquiring Arabic and regional content licenses may be cheaper but still demands a substantial investment. Local content creators frequently anticipate payment for exclusive streaming rights and a portion of the subscription earnings.
• Original Content Production: Creating original content is a substitute for licensing, even though it incurs a greater initial expense. Depending on the production quality, creating one episode of a high-caliber series may cost between $200,000 and $500,000 or even higher.

Marketing and Customer Acquisition

After the platform is built and the content is prepared, substantial marketing efforts are necessary to draw in subscribers. Marketing expenses may differ based on the platform’s intended audience, selected marketing channels, and the general strategy.

• Digital Advertising: Promoting on platforms such as Facebook, Google, and YouTube may differ depending on the size of your intended audience and the extent of your campaign’s reach. The expense will vary based on geographical focus, length of time, and the bidding approach employed to enhance visibility.

• Influencer Marketing: Partnering with influencers in the MENA region can greatly enhance brand visibility and draw new users to the platform. The price of these campaigns will be affected by the influencer’s audience size, interaction levels, and the appeal of their content.
• Sales and Offers: Providing free trials, discounts, or bundled packages successfully draws in new customers. These promotional costs must be included in the total customer acquisition expenses, as they significantly influence the marketing budget.

Operational Costs

Operational expenses encompass the daily costs linked to managing the platform. This comprises customer assistance, server and hosting fees, CDN charges, and platform updates.

• Client Support: Offering 24/7 customer assistance in multiple languages requires a considerable monthly expenditure based on the chosen support model and service level.
• Hosting and CDN: The expenses for hosting and Content Delivery Network (CDN) services are influenced by the size of the user audience and the volume of content being streamed, with costs fluctuating according to these elements
• Platform Maintenance: Continuous platform maintenance, which involves updates, bug fixes, and feature improvements, necessitates a monthly budget that fluctuates based on the platform’s complexity and size.
• Guaranteeing Strong Security Elements: To safeguard user data and content rights, implementing security measures like encryption and DRM is essential when creating an app similar to OSN +.
• Ensuring Regulatory Adherence: Complying with local regulations in the MENA region guarantees that your OSN+ streaming service adheres to all required standards, reducing legal liabilities.

Security and Compliance

The security and compliance costs relating to the OSN+ streaming platform would be founded upon providing a secure platform shielded from cyber threats and regulatory compliance at all times. This includes giving encryption protocols, protecting users’ rights over their data per global privacy laws, and protecting sensitive user data.

• Data Encryption & Protection: Data security measures, including end-to-end encryption for user data and payment information, may take somewhere between $10,000 and $50,000, depending on the encryption technologies used and on how much to be encrypted.
• Compliance with Data Privacy Regulations: International data protection laws, like GDPR or CCPA, will require legal audit and data handling procedures ranging between $20,000 and $100,000. This also provides for user data rights management and audit trails.
• Cybersecurity Measures: Strong and latest cybersecurity measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular vulnerability assessments can increase costs, ranging from $20,000 to $60,000, depending on the size and complexity of the platform’s infrastructure.
• Third-Party Security Audits: Regular audits and penetration testing to trace and rectify security vulnerabilities will cost approximately $15,000 to $50,000 annually; thus, those would ensure that the platform is protected.

Improving User Experience and Accessibility

Developing a user-friendly and region-specific interface enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty. Platforms like OSN+ emphasize seamless navigation and appealing designs to boost user interaction.

• Feature Collection and Personalization: Tailored features such as offline downloads and support for multiple screens enhance value but also influence expenses.
• Leveraging Advanced Technologies: Implementing AI-based suggestions and cloud hosting improves user engagement and affects platform costs.
• Choosing the Right Development Platform: Whether aiming for Android, iOS, or both, this decision affects expenses and accessibility.

Tips for Reducing Cost to develop video streaming platform like OSN+

Even if you aim to develop an app like OSN Plus, there are methods to reduce costs while maintaining user experience and functionality. Let us take a look at them in detail below:

Adopt an MVP Approach

Releasing a minimum viable product (MVP) enables you to deploy a basic iteration of your streaming service with key functionalities such as video-on-demand and subscription options. This method lowers initial development expenses and offers important user insights for future improvements. Creating an MVP can cut initial expenses by as much as 50%, making it viable for startups or smaller enterprises.

Utilize Regional Collaborations

Partnering with regional telecom companies, content developers, or production studios in MENA nations such as Bahrain, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia can greatly reduce operational costs. Collaborating with telecom companies for subscription packages or local content creators to create unique content can draw in a dedicated user base and lower content acquisition expenses.

Delegated Development

Contracting a mobile app development firm in Saudi Arabia or Egypt can reduce expenses while providing access to talented developers. This method is more economical than hiring internal teams and guarantees access to experts who understand local regulations and consumer preferences.

Incremental Launches

Rather than initiating a simultaneous launch in all MENA countries, consider commencing with major markets such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE. After the platform becomes popular, you can branch out to different nations, efficiently distributing costs and resources.

Revenue Strategies That Power the Growth of a Video Streaming Platform Like OSN+

When creating a video streaming service such as OSN+, establishing a strong revenue model is essential for sustained success. Here are the vital strategies that propel revenue growth for content streaming services such as OSN+.

Model Based on Subscriptions (SVOD)

A fundamental revenue approach for the OSN+ streaming service involves providing tiered subscription options. This approach allows users to reach exclusive content according to their subscription tier. The business model of the OSN+ app is largely dependent on regular monthly or yearly payments, providing a consistent source of income. Providing unique content can enhance the attractiveness of subscription options.

Model Supported by Advertisements (AVOD)

Alongside subscriptions, video streaming services such as OSN+ can implement advertising-driven models. By providing free content supported by ads, platforms can draw in a larger audience and generate income from advertising revenue. This model can be incorporated with a premium, ad-free subscription option, boosting total engagement and revenue.

Transactional Video on Demand (TVOD)

An alternative revenue model for platforms such as OSN+ is pay-per-view or TVOD, in which users are charged for specific content or events. The expense of creating a video streaming platform similar to OSN+ rises with the inclusion of payment methods.

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Uncovering the Hidden Costs of Video Streaming Platform Development Like OSN+

When developing a video streaming service like OSN+, unanticipated costs such as application maintenance, hosting, and marketing are common.

App Maintenance

Operating a content streaming application such as OSN+ requires frequent updates, bug repairs, and performance enhancements. This guarantees that the OSN+ streaming platform remains competitive and safe.

Application Hosting

Reliable hosting is essential for uninterrupted streaming. The expense of creating a video streaming app rises because of the requirement for expandable cloud infrastructure. The video streaming platform development cost of the OSN+ app will be influenced by the selected video storage and distribution method.

Promoting and Marketing Apps

Promotion is a vital approach in video streaming platform development like OSN+. Advertising the OSN+ app through multiple channels, including social media and advertisements, raises the expenses of creating a video streaming service like OSN+. Moreover, developing a successful OSN+ application business model necessitates ongoing user interaction.

These concealed expenses must be considered when strategizing for Video Streaming Platform Development Like OSN+

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations for an OSN + App Business Model

Creating a video streaming service similar to the OSN+ app necessitates adherence to various regulations, particularly in a region as varied as the MENA market. Here is an overview of important factors:

Licensing Requirements

Content Approvals: Some nations in MENA, such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, enforce rigid cultural rules. Platforms must guarantee their content matches local sensitivities, steering clear of forbidden such issues as political opposition or explicit content.

Streaming Rights: Acquiring regional licenses for global content is crucial. Licensing fees depend on factors like exclusivity, fame, and distribution permissions.

Local Content Quotas: Nations such as Egypt promote platforms to include a share of local content, which can serve as a strategic benefit for entering the market. Collaborating with experts in mobile app development in Egypt can streamline the process of integrating culturally relevant features and content.

Data Privacy and Security

Compliance with UAE Data Laws: Businesses must comply with the UAE’s data protection laws, which mandate that platforms focus on data security and keep users informed regarding data utilization.

GDPR for Expat Audiences: Considering the large expatriate community in the MENA region, adherence to the EU’s GDPR enhances wider attraction and fosters trust among users from Europe.

Cybersecurity Measures: Strong encryption, secure transaction gateways, and authentication measures reduce risks and assure users.

How Do You Create a Video Streaming Platform Like OSN+?

Several essential features are necessary to create a competitive video streaming service similar to OSN+. These characteristics should be crafted to provide an outstanding user experience, safety, and expandability.

User Interface and Experience (UI/UX)

An intuitive and attractive user interface makes a big difference in keeping users engaged. It’s helpful to include support for multiple languages, such as Arabic, English, and French, to meet varied preferences. Working with a mobile app development company in Saudi Arabia ensures the platform fits the needs of local users.

Key Design Aspects:

Multilingual Support: By providing navigation and content in many languages, the platform guarantees that it can accommodate the region’s linguistic diversity.

Optimizing Devices: To ensure a seamless experience across all platforms, the platform must be tailored for smartphones, tablets, desktop computers, and smart TVs.

User Profiles: Platforms ought to provide customized user profiles, similar to OSN+, so that users may specify their preferences and get recommendations for their watching habits.

Easy-to-use Navigation: The user interface should be easy to use, with features like “Trending,” “New Releases,” and “Watch Again” to make it easy for users to find information.

Streaming Features

Good streaming quality is key for any video platform, especially where internet speeds vary. Adaptive streaming technology tweaks the video quality to match your connection so you can enjoy your OTT without interruptions.

Key Streaming Features:

Adaptive Streaming: An essential attribute for guaranteeing seamless playback on both high and low-bandwidth connections.

Multi-device Streaming: The capability to begin viewing content on one device and resume on another is essential for user ease.

Offline Viewing: Allowing users to download content for offline access can draw in more subscribers, especially for individuals with costly or restrictive data plans.

Multiple Video Resolutions: Offering various video resolutions from standard definition (SD) to ultra-high-definition (4K) guarantees that the platform meets all user requirements

Subscription Management

A flexible subscription management system is key to handling different payment plans and user preferences. It should support local payment methods like Visa, MasterCard, Mada, Fawry, and mobile wallets such as STC Pay in Saudi Arabia and Etisalat in the UAE.

Models of Subscription:

Freemium: Providing restricted access to content at no cost, with an upgrade option available for complete access.

Layered Subscription: Providing various subscription tiers (Basic, Premium, etc.) to give users access to increased content or enhanced streaming quality.

Pay-Per-View: Providing one-time access to particular films or events can draw in customers who choose not to engage in a complete subscription.

Content Delivery and Security

A Content Delivery Network (CDN) is really important for smooth streaming. CDNs make sure your videos load quickly and play without buffering by storing the content on servers closer to you, no matter where you are.

Security Measures:

Digital Rights Management (DRM): DRM is like a security system for digital content, stopping people from stealing or illegally sharing videos. OSN+ app uses top-notch DRM technology to protect its content.

Geo-restriction: Some platforms block certain content based on your location. This helps them stick to licensing agreements and stop unauthorized content sharing.

Analysis and Insights

Real-time analytics are essential for grasping user behavior, content effectiveness, and market trends. Platform owners can enhance content and customize marketing approaches by examining viewer duration, audience demographics, and device utilization.

Key Analytics:

Viewership Data: Identifying popular shows, movies, or series can assist with content acquisition and production decisions.

User Engagement: Monitoring the frequency of user engagement with the platform, the duration of their viewing, and the timing of subscription cancellations can assist in optimizing the platform’s services.

Content Performance: Examining the performance of various content types (regional, international, original productions) across different markets enhances content libraries.

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Why Appinventiv is the Ideal Partner for Developing a Video Streaming Platform Like OSN+ App 

We hope this blog has helped you understand the cost of developing a platform similar to the OSN+ app. Partnering with a company like Appinventiv can be pivotal when building such a streaming app. Being a custom mobile app development company in Saudi Arabia, we can bring expertise and experience to ensure your app meets industry standards and user expectations. We are your ideal partner to develop a video streaming platform like OSN+, all thanks to our:

User-Centric Design Philosophy: We prioritize user experience in our development process, ensuring our apps are intuitive, engaging, and easy to navigate. This approach significantly boosts user retention and satisfaction.

Proven Expertise: Appinventiv has a strong track record of delivering successful OTT Platform Development Services. Our team understands the nuances of streaming platform regulations and can craft innovative and compliant solutions.

Advanced Technical Skills: With proficiency in the latest technologies, such as AI, blockchain, and machine learning, we can implement advanced features that enhance security, user engagement, and overall functionality.

Global Reach and Scalability: We design & develop every app to scale and cater to a worldwide audience, capable of growing and adapting to various markets and user bases without compromising performance.

Dedicated Support and Maintenance: We provide ongoing support and maintenance post-launch to ensure the app remains updated with the latest features and security enhancements, which is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge.

Proven Success: The clients’ testimonials from our satisfied clientele speak volumes about the quality of our work. Their pleasant experiences showcase us regarding respecting timelines, going beyond expected performance, and deploying high-performing apps. 

Contact us to discuss your project needs and discover how we can help you transform your vision into a robust and innovative video streaming app that stands out in the market.

FAQs

Q. How long does it take to develop a content streaming platform like OSN+?

A. Developing a comprehensive content streaming platform like OSN+ typically takes 6 to 12 months. This timeline can extend depending on the features’ complexity and the platform’s scale. The OSN app development process includes several phases, from initial planning and design to testing and deployment, each critical to delivering a robust and user-friendly service.

Q. How do you create a video streaming platform like OSN+?

A. To build a video streaming platform similar to OSN+, follow these necessary steps:

Define Your Unique Value Proposition: Identify what will make your platform stand out, such as exclusive content, superior streaming quality, or unique user features.

Key Features: Decide on essential features like high-definition streaming, multi-language support, adaptive playback, and user-friendly interfaces.

Assemble a Development Team: Gather skilled developers and designers or partner with a reputable development company to ensure professional execution.

Develop Robust Backend Architecture: Build a strong backend that can handle high traffic and data loads.

Implement Secure Content Management: Use secure systems to manage and store content to prevent unauthorized access.

Utilize Efficient CDNs: Employ content delivery networks to ensure fast and reliable content streaming worldwide.

Security Measures: Incorporate digital rights management (DRM) and geo-restriction capabilities to protect your content and adhere to licensing agreements.

Q. How much does it cost to develop a video streaming platform like OSN+?

A. The cost to develop a streaming platform like OSN+ varies widely based on several factors, including the complexity of the features, the technology stack, the geographical location of your development team, and the level of customization required. Typically, costs can range from $30,000 to $300,000 or more.