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Have you ever wondered how video streaming apps like OSN+, Netflix, or Disney+ manage to keep millions of people glued to their screens every day?
The reason could be an endless library of shows, a flawless experience, streaming quality, and the way these apps make entertainment available anytime, anywhere.
Building your own streaming app might sound overwhelming. But with the right strategy, technology, and development team, you still can ace it.
If you are considering building your own streaming platform, our mobile app development company in Saudi Arabia has got you covered.
In the MENA region alone, OTT revenue is projected to reach $5.19 billion by 2025. It’s a clear signal that the appetite for on-demand content is only growing.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what it takes to build a successful video streaming app to help you turn your idea into a real, scalable product.
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Building a service like OSN+ is a big project, but it’s totally doable if you break it into pieces.
Below, our Boston app developers have laid out a practical, end-to-end mobile app development process for success:
The process to create a video streaming app like OSN+ begins with having a clear understanding of how your app will make money.
Your chosen business model will shape everything, like the type of content you offer and the features you prioritize.
So, primarily, there are four highly effective approaches in this regard:
| Model | How It Works | Examples |
| Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) | Users pay a recurring monthly or yearly fee to access unlimited content. | Netflix, OSN+, Disney+ |
| Advertising Video on Demand (AVOD) | Content is free, but users see ads while watching. | YouTube, Pluto TV |
| Transactional Video on Demand (TVOD) | Users pay per movie, episode, or live stream. | iTunes, Google TV |
| Hybrid Model | Combines subscriptions with ads (e.g., free ad-supported tier + premium ad-free tier). | Hulu, Spotify |
We recommended that you go with an option that aligns with your target audience’s habits and your content strategy.
For this concern, ask yourself: Do my viewers binge-watch shows daily, or are they likely to pay only for specific events?
Once you have an answer for that, there will be a clear direction for monetizing your app effectively.
Bonus Read: “Explore our step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire process of creating a mobile application.”
Great content is the backbone of every streaming service. No matter how smooth your app runs, people will only subscribe if they find shows and movies worth watching.
That’s what makes it paramount to secure and create the right mix of content. You should reach out to movie studios, TV networks, and distributors to acquire streaming rights.
Do consider getting licenses for popular titles and hit series, which can instantly attract users who are already fans of those shows.
Video streaming platforms like OSN+ and Netflix invest heavily in originals because it helps them stand out from the competition.
If possible, you should create your own series or films that strengthen your brand identity but also give people a reason to choose your platform over others.
Last but not least, try not to overlook regional content. Audiences tend to connect strongly with stories, languages, and themes that resonate with their own cultural background.
If you want users to keep coming back, your streaming app needs to be more than just a content library.
According to research, 60% of users uninstall apps due to missing or poor features.
Your live video streaming mobile app should offer a smooth, personalized, and enthralling overall experience that makes watching fun.
Below are the essential features every video streaming platform like OSN+ should include, along with why they matter:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
| User Registration & Profiles | Helps users save preferences and manage individual experiences. |
| Content Library & Search | Makes browsing simple with categories, genres, and quick search. |
| Multi-Device Compatibility | Ensures seamless viewing on TV, mobile, tablets, and web. |
| High-Quality Streaming | Provides HD/4K playback with adaptive quality for smooth viewing. |
| Offline Downloads | Let’s users watch content without an internet connection. |
| Personalized Recommendations | Suggests shows and movies based on user behavior. |
| Watchlist & Favorites | Allows users to save and access titles at a later time. |
| Secure Payment Integration | Offers safe and convenient payment methods. |
| Parental Controls | Enables parents to restrict unsuitable content. |
| Multilingual Support | Expands accessibility with multiple languages. |
When you bring all these features together, your app feels polished, professional, and user-focused just like OSN+ and other big players in the market.
Your app’s success depends heavily on the technology behind it.
A strong tech stack ensures your platform can handle growth, deliver smooth streaming, and keep everything secure.
When you choose the right tools, you make your app scalable, reliable, and easier to maintain in the long run.
Here’s a breakdown of the core technologies for a video streaming app like OSN+ you need to focus on:
If you want your video streaming app to succeed, you must make it capable of handling massive traffic while keeping user data and content safe.
You’d better start by implementing Digital Rights Management (DRM) to protect your shows and movies from piracy.
Using a Content Delivery Network (CDN) will help your team deliver videos quickly and smoothly to users all over the world, regardless of location.
Moreover, add load balancing and auto-scaling so your app stays fast and stable even when thousands of people log in at once.
It is non-negotiable to have secure authentication and data encryption to build trust by keeping user accounts and payment details safe.
Design can make or break a streaming app, and OSN+ stands out because it offers an interface that feels simple yet engaging.
Your goal should be to create an experience where users never feel lost or overwhelmed by:
The success of your video streaming app like OSN+, lies in a smooth cross-device experience. It should allow viewers to pause on one device and instantly pick up where they left off on another.
When you design with the user in mind, your app transforms from just a content library into a space that people enjoy spending time in.
Relevant Read: “If you are a Dubai resident or a new tourist, check out the article on 15 must-have apps in Dubai to make your life easier.”
Testing is one step you can’t afford to skip before launching your streaming app.
You should put your live video streaming app under heavy load to see how it performs when thousands of users log in simultaneously.
Test it across different devices—from smartphones and tablets to smart TVs and web browsers—to make sure the experience feels smooth everywhere.
Stream content on both high-speed and low-speed networks to confirm that video quality adapts seamlessly without endless buffering.
In the end, run thorough security checks to identify and fix any weaknesses before hackers or data leaks become a problem.
You will give yourself the confidence that your platform will deliver a reliable and enjoyable experience by testing your app in real-world conditions.
Once everything is done and dusted, it’s time to create excitement and draw in your first wave of loyal users.
We recommend having a soft launch by releasing the app to a smaller audience and gathering honest feedback.
This allows you to fine-tune performance, fix any glitches, and polish the user experience before going big.
Once you’re confident, move to a full launch backed by strong marketing campaigns like:
You can also form partnerships with telecom providers or smart device manufacturers, giving you access to built-in audiences who are eager for streaming services.
The key is to create buzz and make potential users feel they’ll miss out if they don’t subscribe right away.
Focus on scalability from the very start. I suggest building your app with a modular structure so you can easily add features, regional content, or new monetization options later. Prioritize adaptive streaming to ensure users enjoy smooth playback regardless of their internet speed. (M. Haseeb, Chief Technology Officer)
OSN+ is currently the most popular live video streaming app in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
It’s primarily admired for its premium Hollywood blockbusters, trending Arabic series, kids’ programming, and exclusive international partnerships. But OSN+ is not the only option out there.
If you are exploring more diverse content, affordable subscription plans, or specialized genres, there are plenty of OSN+ alternatives to consider.
From global giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video to regional favorites such as Shahid and WATCH IT, each app brings its own flavor of entertainment to the table.
Let’s get started with Netflix first:
Netflix is the pioneer and undisputed global leader in the streaming world.
Available in over 190 countries, it boasts an enormous library that includes Hollywood blockbusters, indie films, foreign-language shows, documentaries, stand-up comedy specials, and critically acclaimed originals.
Series like Money Heist, The Witcher, and Stranger Things have become global phenomena, while its recommendation engine ensures you always discover new favorites.
Best for: This video streaming app like OSN+, is ideal for viewers who love variety, global content, and exclusive original series.
| Pros | Cons |
| Vast and diverse global content library | Regional libraries vary; not all shows are available everywhere |
| Netflix Originals are high-quality and exclusive | Subscription cost is higher than that of regional apps |
| Personalized recommendations based on viewing habits | Popular titles are sometimes removed due to licensing |
| Supports 4K, HDR, multiple devices | Requires a strong internet connection for the best streaming quality |
Launched by MBC Group, Shahid is the Middle East’s premier Arabic streaming service.
It combines an impressive library of Arabic dramas, Ramadan specials, comedies, and talk shows with a growing selection of international content.
With its premium plan (Shahid VIP), viewers get ad-free experiences, early access to hit series, and exclusive Arabic originals.
It’s especially popular during Ramadan when it streams exclusive series not available anywhere else.
Best for: Shahid would be an OSN+ alternative for fans of Arabic dramas, comedies, and MENA regional exclusives.
| Pros | Cons |
| Extensive Arabic content (series, films, live TV) | Fewer Hollywood blockbusters than Netflix or Prime |
| Exclusive Ramadan & regional originals | Interface and navigation could be smoother |
| Affordable subscription plans | Limited availability outside MENA |
| Family-friendly options available | Offline download options are limited |
Amazon Prime Video is a global competitor with a massive catalog of movies, TV shows, and originals like The Boys, Jack Ryan, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
Subscribers also get access to rentals and purchases of the latest cinema releases, making it more versatile than some rivals.
In the MENA region, it has been expanding with Arabic-subtitled content and partnerships with regional creators.
Best for: Amazon Prime is the top live video streaming app for those who enjoy premium originals, as well as rental/purchase flexibility.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable when bundled with an Amazon Prime membership | The interface can feel cluttered with rentals vs. free titles |
| Large catalog of international films and shows | Some premium movies require an extra payment |
| High-quality Amazon Originals | The regional library is smaller than Netflix |
| 4K, HDR, and offline downloads supported | Limited Arabic dubbing/subtitles in some shows |
StarzPlay is especially popular in the Middle East for its combination of Hollywood blockbusters, hit TV shows, kids’ content, and Arabic programming.
It often collaborates with telecom providers to offer discounted or bundled subscriptions.
StarzPlay is more affordable than some global competitors, making it a good choice for budget-conscious viewers.
Best for: It’s an ideal OSN+ alternative for those who love Hollywood movies and Arabic content on a budget.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable subscription | Smaller library than Netflix or Disney+ |
| Focus on Hollywood and Arabic content | Fewer original shows |
| Accessible on smartphones, smart TVs, and consoles | Some content rotates quickly |
| Kid-friendly options included | Regional availability is limited |
For anime enthusiasts, Crunchyroll is the ultimate video streaming platform destination.
It specializes in anime series and films, offering one of the largest catalogs globally. Fans can access simulcasts that release new episodes just hours after airing in Japan.
Beyond anime, Crunchyroll also provides access to manga and anime-related merchandise, creating a complete fandom ecosystem.
Best for: Anime lovers and fans of Japanese entertainment.
| Pros | Cons |
| Largest anime catalog worldwide | Very limited non-anime content |
| Simulcasts with fast release after Japan | The free plan has ads and lower quality |
| Subbed and dubbed versions available | Some titles are restricted by region |
| Manga and merchandise integration | Premium subscription needed for the best features |
Disney+ has quickly become one of the most popular family-oriented video streaming platforms worldwide.
Its strength lies in exclusivity—Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic are all housed under one roof.
It’s the go-to app for superhero fans, families, and anyone who loves classic animations or epic franchises.
Best for: Families and fans of Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars universes.
| Pros | Cons |
| Exclusive access to Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars content | Limited regional availability (still expanding globally) |
| Affordable pricing compared to Netflix | Smaller library outside the Disney ecosystem |
| High-quality 4K streaming is included at no extra cost | Limited Arabic originals/content |
| Perfect for family viewing | Some movies rotate out due to licensing |
Also Read: “Want to create an app like Tabby but not sure where to begin? Dive into our latest guide, where we break down everything you need to know.”
WATCH IT is an Egyptian streaming service dedicated to Arabic and Egyptian entertainment.
It’s the best-known OSN+ alternative for its Ramadan specials, Egyptian dramas, and regional films.
The platform is gaining traction among audiences who prefer local productions and culturally relevant stories.
Best for: Viewers who prefer Arabic/Egyptian series and Ramadan exclusives.
| Pros | Cons |
| Focused on Egyptian and Arabic dramas | Very few international titles |
| Exclusive Ramadan content | Smaller library than global platforms |
| Affordable pricing | The app interface can feel outdated |
| Offline downloads supported | Limited access outside Egypt |
Flick Vision is an emerging platform aiming to bring together global and regional entertainment.
While still growing, this video streaming app like OSN+, has a mix of international films, series, and regional exclusives.
Its strength lies in being a fresh alternative with potential for expansion as more partnerships develop.
Best for: Viewers seeking a fresh alternative to mainstream apps.
| Pros | Cons |
| Mix of global and regional content | Smaller catalog than established players |
| Affordable subscription options | Limited original productions |
| Simple, user-friendly design | Availability varies by country |
| Expanding partnerships bring new content | Still less recognized globally |
YouTube is not just for music videos and vlogs—it has evolved into a versatile platform for all kinds of entertainment.
You can rent or purchase movies, watch live shows, stream channels, or subscribe to YouTube Premium for ad-free viewing and access to exclusive original content.
It’s the most accessible platform globally, with billions of hours of free content.
Best for: Casual viewers, DIY content fans, and people looking for both free and premium entertainment.
| Pros | Cons |
| Massive library of free content | The free version is ad-heavy |
| User-generated + professional entertainment | YouTube Originals are limited |
| Option to rent/purchase the latest movies | Not designed for binge-watching like Netflix |
| Accessible on all devices worldwide | Some videos are restricted by region |
Also Read: “Try our recent article on the best Buffstream alternatives, tailored for sports enthusiasts across the GCC.”
Plex is unique compared to traditional video streaming apps like OSN+.
It provides free ad-supported movies and TV shows, but also doubles as a media server to allow you to stream your personal collection of movies, shows, and music.
Plex is ideal for tech-savvy users who want control over their media while still enjoying free streaming options.
Best for: Viewers who want both free streaming and a personal media hub.
| Pros | Cons |
| Free streaming with ad-supported movies & shows | Ads can interrupt viewing |
| A media server lets you organize your personal collection | Setup may feel technical for casual users |
| Available on most devices worldwide | No exclusive originals |
| Flexible and customizable features | Some premium features require Plex Pass |
From Netflix’s global originals to Shahid’s Arabic exclusives, Crunchyroll’s anime dominance, and Disney+’s family-friendly library, these live video streaming mobile apps offer something for everyone.
Building a video streaming app like OSN+ is a rewarding but resource-intensive project.
You should expect video streaming app development to cost anywhere between $60,000- $250,000+, depending on complexity, features, and platform support.
If you plan wisely, start with an MVP, and scale gradually, it is going to be a strong streaming platform that competes with existing big players.
For this purpose, the best practice is to provide your users with engaging content, smooth performance, and a user-friendly experience.
So, usually, the cost to create an app like OSN+ is around:
Here is a detailed breakdown of the video streaming app development cost like OSN+:
| Component | Details | Estimated Cost Range (USD) |
| UI/UX Design | Wireframes, user flow, and custom interface design for web & mobile apps. | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Frontend Development | App development for iOS, Android, and Web (React Native, Swift, Kotlin). | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Backend Development | Server setup, APIs, database integration, and content management. | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Video Streaming Player | HD/4K support, adaptive bitrate, subtitles, multi-device compatibility. | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Content Management System (CMS) | Admin dashboard for uploading, managing, and categorizing content. | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| User Features | Profiles, watchlist, parental controls, ratings, reviews. | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Payment Gateway | Subscription model, pay-per-view, in-app purchases, multiple currencies. | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Search & Recommendations | AI-driven search filters and personalized content recommendations. | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Cloud & CDN Setup | Hosting, storage, and smooth video delivery via AWS/GCP/Azure. | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Testing & QA | Performance testing, bug fixes, security audits, and multi-device checks. | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Maintenance (Yearly) | Regular updates, bug fixes, and feature upgrades (15–20% of total cost). | $10,000 – $30,000 annually |
For live streaming platforms like OSN+, Netflix, and Disney+, viewers have endless options at their fingertips.
Your app needs to stand out with features that truly add value. The proper set of features will define how users experience your platform, how often they return, and ultimately, how successful your app becomes.
Here are the core features that every video streaming app should have:
Among the most popular services in the Middle East is OSN+, which has successfully combined international blockbusters with regional favorites.
Its success reflects vast opportunities for businesses and creators who want to enter the streaming space.
For those willing to build a video streaming app like OSN+, there is a mix of business opportunities, technical advantages, and long-term growth potential.
Audiences worldwide are moving away from cable and satellite television. The OTT (over-the-top) video market is growing year after year, making streaming one of the most profitable digital ventures today.
Instead of relying on third-party services, owning your own platform means full control over licensing, distribution, and user experience.
Streaming apps provide valuable data on user behavior. So when you know what your audience watches, it lets you offer personalized recommendations and reduce churn.
Launching a video streaming app enhances your brand recognition. It positions you as a serious player in digital media rather than just a content creator.
By focusing on underserved niches (e.g., Arabic dramas, anime, documentaries, or kids’ education), you can stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Streaming apps can reach users across borders without the limitations of traditional TV broadcasting.
At the same time, you can localize content with regional languages, subtitles, or dubbing to cater to specific audiences (just like OSN+ does for Arabic-speaking users).
Unlike traditional media, video streaming apps allow you to experiment with revenue strategies.
You can launch with freemium access, later introduce tiered subscriptions, or even add live event pay-per-view.
This flexibility enables us to adapt to market trends and user demand.
Audiences today expect seamless streaming across smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
A dedicated video streaming app ensures your brand is everywhere your users are, enhancing engagement and retention.
Building a streaming app like OSN+ isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely possible if you plan well, invest in the right technology, and deliver top-notch content.
Focus on creating a secure, scalable, and user-friendly platform, and you can carve out your space in the competitive OTT market.
Who knows? Your video streaming app like OSN+, might just become the next go-to entertainment hub for millions.
Remember, a video streaming platform like OSN+ might involve several technical challenges that you can’t address alone.
That’s exactly where Trango Tech shines with 20+ years of proven industry experience and a track record of delivering over 240 streaming apps globally.
Our video streaming apps empower businesses to compete with global players like OSN+, Netflix, and Disney+.
To be precise, our ability to transform an idea into a high-performing, revenue-generating streaming app product makes us the best mobile app development company.
OSN+ gives subscribers access to a wide variety of content, from international blockbusters to regional favourites. The platform offers exclusive series from HBO, Paramount, and Universal, along with OSN Originals and Arabic titles. Users can create multiple profiles, stream on different devices at the same time, and even set up a dedicated Kids profile to keep family viewing safe.
No, OSN+ is not free. It works on a paid subscription model, just like Netflix or Disney+. While you may find apps or websites claiming it’s free, those are either outdated or misleading. To enjoy OSN+ legally, you need to pay for a subscription plan that fits your needs.
It usually takes 6–9 months to build an MVP and 12–18 months for a full-featured platform, depending on the features and platforms you want to support.
In Saudi Arabia, the subscription price for OSN+ varies slightly depending on where you sign up. If you’re a first-time subscriber, you can take advantage of a special offer at SAR 14.99 per month for the first three months, billed upfront at SAR 44.99. After that, the standard monthly rate becomes SAR 48.99. If you subscribe through providers like Mobily or stc, you’ll find options ranging from around SAR 44.99 to SAR 64.99 per month.
Building an app like OSN+ requires a significant investment. A basic MVP (minimum viable product) with essential functions like streaming, subscriptions, and user accounts usually costs between $80,000 and $150,000 and can take 6–9 months to complete. If you want a fully featured platform with DRM protection, offline downloads, personalized recommendations, smart TV apps, and large-scale cloud infrastructure, the budget can easily exceed $300,000.
The smartest way to start is by building apps for iOS, Android, and the web, because those platforms capture the largest user base. Once you’ve proven traction and have a stable infrastructure, you can expand to smart TVs and streaming devices like Samsung Tizen, LG WebOS, Android TV, Apple TV, and Roku.
Content licensing costs can vary dramatically based on what you want to offer. Popular international titles or exclusive series can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per year per territory, while smaller or independent content may be more affordable.
Yes, you can launch a streaming app without owning your own library, but you’ll need to negotiate licensing deals with studios, distributors, or independent creators. Without content, your app won’t hold user attention, so content partnerships are essential.
The most complicated aspect of creating the best free video streaming app is scaling your platform while maintaining smooth, high-quality playback. Streaming apps must handle large volumes of video traffic without buffering or downtime. At the same time, it requires strong cloud infrastructure and CDN support. Beyond the technical side, securing content licenses, fighting piracy, and keeping subscribers engaged with fresh recommendations are just a few of them.
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Meet Fazal Mahmood, the brain behind some of the sharpest insights in SEO and content creation. With a knack for turning complex tech talk into engaging reads, Fazal has carved out his niche in the fast-paced world of digital marketing. As the SEO Team Lead and resident content wizard at an app development company, he blends strategy with storytelling to make even the most technical topics come alive.
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