How to Build a Video Streaming Platform Like Shahid? – Here’s How!

Must-Have Features to Include in a Video Streaming App Like Shahid

Let’s understand key features that must be incorporated when building a video streaming app like Shahid:

1. User Profile & Account Management

The first feature you must consider is user profile and account management. Here, you can allow users to create and manage multiple profiles within a single account (e.g., one for each family member). Each profile can have its personalized settings, such as watchlists, viewing history, and preferences. This will allow everyone in the household to get tailored content recommendations.

Also, support for avatar selection, language preferences, and recently watched content makes the experience personal and enjoyable. This not only enhances user experience but also encourages longer watch sessions.

2. Smart Search & Advanced Filters

Integrate a smart search & advanced filters feature to enable users to easily and quickly discover their content. Users can search for their favourite movies or shows by specifying the content type (movies, shows, documentaries), actors, genre, or language. 

In that case, implementing auto-suggestions and predictive search can improve speed. Most importantly, offer voice search support for smart TVs and mobile apps. The app also suggests trending and regionally relevant content, making it simple to find something worth watching—even if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for.

Bonus Read: OTT App Platform Development: A Detailed Guide!

3. Multi-Device Streaming

Integrate multi-device streaming for Android, iOS mobiles, tablets, desktops, and smart TVs. This allows users to continue watching their favorite shows or movies on different devices without any interruptions. It is worth noting that you must enable users to log in and stream content on different devices with real-time sync. This feature works best because users can switch devices at their convenience, ultimately offering a smooth, convenient, and flexible user experience.

4. Secure Login & Authentication

Security in a video streaming app is a must. To protect content and user data, robust security features must be built into the video streaming platform. Ensure to offer a secure and user-friendly login system. Allow your app to include login via email, mobile number (OTP), or social accounts like Google and Facebook. Implement two-factor authentication (2FA) and device recognition to prevent unauthorized access.

Moreover, the platform also supports session management, device verification, and secure data encryption. This helps build trust among users and makes them especially confident about sharing their personal data and information. 

5. Multiple Monetization Options

Integrating multiple monetization methods to cater to an audience with diverse preferences is a smart choice. If we talk about Shahid, it employs a hybrid monetization model. Here, free users can access limited content but with ads (AVOD). 

On the contrary, the premium users can access unlimited exclusive content, free from ads. Apart from this, users can also opt for Transactional Video on Demand (TVOD). It includes a Pay-per-view model for specific live events or movies. The app also supports promotional codes, in-app purchases for select content, and live event access, ensuring there’s a plan for every kind of viewer.

6. Live TV & Event Streaming

Around 28.5% of internet users now watch live streams, and integrating this feature must surely be prioritized. The most prominent feature of Shahid is its live TV and event streaming capabilities. It offers users access to real-time content, including live news broadcasts, regional sports & special religious programs. With the help of this feature, you can attract a massive audience, ensuring high engagement and an optimal user experience. 

7. Push Notifications & Alerts

According to data, users who receive push alerts are 191% more engaged than those who do not.  Push notifications are another way that Shahid, a video streaming app service, keeps its users informed and engaged.

It contains information on forthcoming live performances, new releases, subscription renewals, and tailored suggestions. Enable users to customize notifications based on language, genre, and preferences.  This feature ensures users are always informed, whether it’s a live sports game or the launch of a popular series, thereby increasing app re-engagement. 

8. Multi-Language Support

If you are building a video streaming app, which is diverse and not region-specific, then say ‘YES’ to a multi-language support feature. For instance, Shahid offers content in multiple languages, such as English, Arabic, and French. It also provides dubbing and subtitle options for foreign films or series to cater to a broad audience. To reach a wider audience, you need to break the language barrier by offering an app interface and content in multiple languages. You can include Hindi, English, Arabic, Mandarin, French, Spanish, and more. The multilingual feature will help to enhance accessibility, user experience, and convenience. 

9. Parental Control

Video streaming apps also require strict features, such as parental controls. Like Shahid, you can also integrate this feature that allows families to create a kid-specific profile. These profiles will display only age-appropriate content, ensuring it is safe and secure, with a PIN code for added protection. Parents can easily control and decide what kind of content will be accessible to their kids, along with screen time limits. This feature helps to create a safe streaming environment for young viewers. 

10. Download & Watch Offline

Who doesn’t love watching content without any internet disruption? That’s when the download & watch offline feature can be integrated. Whether you’re travelling, have a busy schedule, or face limited internet access. Users can easily utilize this feature to download their favorite shows or movies without interruption. Moreover, users can choose the download quality and easily manage their storage within the video streaming app like Shahid. 

11. Social Features

Want to enhance platform growth and user engagement? Then, adding social features is a must. Of course, it’s also the best way to boost your reach to your potential customers (everything organically!). Social features enhance user experience and foster a content-driven social environment. You can include likes, comments, community-based ratings, video sharing, and upcoming watch parties elements. Furthermore, social features encourage users to spend more time on the app, helping it grow through word-of-mouth and social media trends.  

12. Payment Options

The most crucial feature that you can’t miss at any cost is the payment option. You can offer a wide range of secure and sound payment methods, much like the Shahid video streaming app service. Additionally, you can provide a range of payment options tailored to your target market’s preferences. 

These include PayPal, credit/debit cards, mobile wallets such as STC Pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and telecom billing partnerships in the MENA region. This helps ensure smooth and localized transactions. 

To build trust with users, provide a transaction history, secure tokenized payments, and clear refund policies. This will not only help maintain transparency but also offer convenience to users.

How to Build a Video Streaming App Like Shahid? Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s dive into the step-by-step development process of a video streaming app like Shahid:

Step 1: Know Your Audience & Business Model

The first step you need to consider is understanding who you’re creating this app for. Are you targeting Arabic-speaking viewers like Shahid, or is your goal to cater to diverse audiences? 

What type of content, genre, or niche your video streaming app will include, your viewers can be adults, kids, families, or everyone. Also, who are your competitors in the market? All such questions will help you build a robust plan before you dive into the development process of a video streaming application. 

Once all this information is laid down, your app’s foundation is in place, it’s time to decide how you’ll make money. 

There are different ways to monetize your video streaming app:

• Offer free content with ads (AVOD)
• Go subscription-based (SVOD), like Shahid VIP
• Or use a hybrid (freemium)

Choosing the right business model from the start helps shape your features, design, and tech choices moving forward.

Step 2: List Must-Have Features

Now that you’ve defined your target audience and business plan, it’s time to map out your app’s core features. 

Shahid offers features that includes user profiles, personalized recommendations, multi-language support, live TV, and downloads for offline viewing. You can start with basic features such as:

• User registration & login
• Smart search and filters
• Content library with thumbnails and categories
• Subscription system

Once you’ve stepped into the market, analyzed your competitors, and understood your audience, you can proceed with full-fledged video streaming app development. Then, you can gradually include premium features like AI-powered suggestions, parental control, or live event streaming as your app scales. 

Step 3: Pick the Right Tech Stack

Integrating the right tech stack in your video streaming app, like Shahid, is highly crucial. This step helps bring your app to life. Ensure that your tech stack supports fast video delivery, secure logins, and a seamless user experience across devices. 

For example:

• Frontend: Swift (for iOS), Kotlin (for Android), React (for web)
• Backend: Node.js or Django for scalable performance
• Video Streaming: Use HLS or MPEG-DASH protocols
• Cloud & CDN: AWS, Google Cloud, or Cloudflare for hosting and fast content delivery

Picking the right tech ensures your app runs smoothly, even during peak hours or live events.

Step 4: Build, Integrate & Upload

Once your tech stack is in place, it’s time to launch your video streaming service app, similar to Shahid. Developers work on frontend and backend configuration, integrate the video player, add user authentication, and set up payment gateways (credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, STC Pay, etc.).

At this stage, you can also start uploading your content, whether it is licensed or creative. Sort it by information, genre, and category, then accurately tag it for search and recommendation.  

Step 5: Test, Launch & Grow

Now we’ve reached the most crucial stage. Here, we ensure that everything works perfectly before going live. In this step, your video streaming app undergoes rigorous testing across multiple devices, including mobile devices, web browsers, and smart TVs. This helps to check playback quality, subscription handling, login flow, and seamless operation. 

Once your video streaming app is launched, the journey doesn’t stop here. Now you need continuous updates, such as fixing bugs, monitoring user behavior, integrating new features, security upgrades, and more. You can consider using AI to create personalized content, just like Shahid does, to keep users interested. 

How to Make Money From Video Streaming App Development Like Shahid?

Here comes the best part – monetization ways to make money from a video streaming app like Shahid. Learn how you can make money from a video streaming app. 

1. Subscription Model (SVOD)

Want a consistent revenue stream? SVOD is the way to go. 

It is a premium OTT platform where users pay fees (monthly, quarterly, or annually) to access exclusive content. The SVOD approach works as a win-win for both parties. 

Here’s why it matters:

In 2025, the global video streaming (SVoD) industry is expected to generate US$119.09 billion in revenue. It clearly states that viewers are willing to pay more for quality content, especially when it’s ad-free and easily accessible.

How the Subscription Model Works?

• Offer different subscription tiers (basic, premium, family plans)
• Lock premium movies, shows, or live TV 
• Offer ad-free, Arabic/non-Arabic content, live channels, and original & premium content – overall amazing user experience to paying users.

Example:
Shahid VIP and VIP (Big Plan) are paid subscription models that offer users access to ad-free content, exclusive series, early access to new episodes, and additional benefits. 

2. Freemium Model

According to a recent survey, 54% of respondents use the freemium model, and 33% report that it is their top revenue generator. 

The Freemium model is a blend of “free” and “premium” – it works best to attract a larger audience. Simply stated, the freemium model is like giving a taste to users before they commit. In the free version, of course, users can watch for free, but with ads and limited access to content. But if they want a complete experience, they’ll have to upgrade to the premium version. 

Here’s why it matters: 

Once users are hooked to your platform’s content, many of them will want to make a switch. So, it’s mostly about showing your value upfront and letting the content do the convincing. 

How the Freemium Model Works?

• Provide free basic content (old shows, selected movies, or series).
• Only users who have paid can access premium or trending content.
• Promote updates via limited-time sneak peeks or special releases.

Example:
Shahid offers free access to limited content, but locks top-tier content for paying members. 

3. Advertising

According to Statista, the global market for OTT video advertising is expected to reach $207.52 billion in 2025. Selling ad space on your OTT platform to businesses and brands is another effective way to earn money. 

Along with the free content version, you can strategically showcase ads. You can place ads at the beginning (pre-roll), middle (mid-roll), and end (post-roll) of video content. OTT app platforms like Shahid enable you to target specific audiences with ads, thereby boosting user engagement and revenue. 

Here’s why it matters:
With the growing OTT trend, it is projected that advertising revenue will reach $1.08 trillion by 2025 and expand by 6.1% in 2026. 

Brands and businesses are actively seeking profitable spaces to showcase their ads. If your app has a strong user base, ads can become a regular source of revenue, without relying solely on users.

How Advertising Works?

• Ad networks (Facebook Audience Network, Google Ad Manager) should be integrated.
• Collaborate on sponsored content with local or international brands or businesses. 
• Provide businesses with ad spots tailored to their target user demographics. 

Example:
Shahid’s free users see advertisements before or during videos, which helps the video streaming app generate revenue without requiring subscriptions.

4. In-App Purchase

Here’s where it gets interesting: Even if users are already paying for a subscription or using a free version, you can still generate revenue. You can offer additional features or content via in-app purchases.

Over $380 billion is spent on in-app purchases by mobile app users. About 48% of all mobile app revenue comes from this, and it is expected to grow exponentially. 

Here’s why it matters:

In 2025, in-app purchases (IAP) generated over $150 billion worldwide, or 56% of overall app income. In-app purchase is an effective way to boost revenue without increasing subscription fees. 

How In-App Purchase Works?

• Users purchase additional content or features within the app.
• Payments are made securely via app stores.
• It generates revenue without requiring changes to subscription plans.

Example:
Shahid could charge separately for exclusive sports events or PPV events outside its usual subscription plan.

5. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing lets your app earn money simply by recommending products your audience already loves. You can earn commission by promoting third-party products or services within your app, content, or user dashboard.

Here’s why it matters:

Global affiliate marketing spend expected to hit $15.7 billion by 2024. This approach is smart, low-effort, and efficient to generate a steady revenue stream from building a video streaming app like Shahid. 

How Affiliate Marketing Works?

• Collaborate with brands or businesses that are relevant to your target audience.
• Promote products via video integrations, native banners, or special deals.
• Get paid per click, impression, or sale.

Example:
Shahid could partner with travel, fashion, or electronics brands featured in shows, and provide product links to users for a cut of the sale.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Video Streaming App Like Shahid?

Building a video streaming app like Shahid isn’t a one-time, flat-fee project. The overall cost of a video streaming app like Shahid depends on how you want your app to be. For instance, if you want to add basic features & functionality to your video streaming app, the cost will be less. 

On the other hand, if you wish to add advanced features & functionality, then the price will go on the higher side. Simply stated, the more features, platforms (iOS, Android, Smart TVs), and integrations you want, the more it adds up.

On average, the estimated cost to build a video streaming app ranges from $15,000 to $300,000 or above. 

• Basic video streaming app cost ranges from $15,000 – $30,000+
• For a mid-level video streaming app, the cost range is $30,000 – $120,000+
• An advanced video streaming app cost ranges from $120,000 – $300,000+

A feature-rich app like Shahid, with premium video streaming quality and content protection, could cost anywhere from $40,000 to $250,000 or more.

5 Factors Impacting the Video Streaming App Development Cost Like Shahid

Let’s understand factors influencing the cost of video streaming app development like Shahid:

1. Features & Functionality

The more advanced features you want to add to your video streaming app, the higher the cost will be. Basic features such as search, user profiles, and playback will not cost you much. However, if you want to integrate advanced features & functionality, you will need to pay more. 

In simple words, the more complex the app, the higher the development cost will be. For example, Shahid’s live TV, VIP subscription model, and region-specific content filters require advanced back-end architecture.

2. Platform Device & Compatibility

Your platform choice also impacts your video streaming app development cost. If you’re planning to opt for native app development, it will cost you more. It is because it requires a separate codebase, testing, and other factors. 

On the other hand, if you opt for a cross-platform framework (like React Native or Flutter), it will cost you less. It is because it allows a single codebase to be used across multiple platforms. Shahid, for instance, is available on mobile devices, desktops, tablets, and connected TVs, requiring optimization and testing across all platforms, which directly affects development costs. 

3. Backend Infrastructure & Streaming Technology

A video streaming app requires a robust backend to manage content, store user data, facilitate real-time streaming, and ensure scalability. You’ll need:

• Streaming servers (e.g., AWS Media Services, Wowza)
• CDNs (like Cloudflare or Akamai for fast delivery)
• Cloud storage, transcoding, and adaptive bitrate streaming

All these services come with monthly fees and setup costs, especially if you want Shahid-level quality and reliability.

4. UI/UX Design Complexity

First impression can work wonders (when done right!) – that’s exactly what you need to consider for UX UI design. Why UX UI is important? – Simply because it determines user engagement, satisfaction, and ultimately your business success. 

If you look at the Shahid video streaming app, it offers seamless interfaces, easy navigation, content-focused layouts, and dark themes. Ultimately, if you’re investing in advanced UI/UX design, you can build an engaging, intuitive, and responsive design that adds value to your app, promoting long-term growth. 

5. Team Location & Expertise

Before collaborating with a mobile app development company, be aware that it will also impact your overall development cost. Hiring a team in North America or Europe. 

Hiring a mobile app development agency in the USA, UK, or Western Europe will cost you more. On the other hand, offshore development in countries such as India or Eastern Europe is more cost-effective. Also, if you’re hiring top video streaming app developers, you will be charged more (depending on their expertise). However, they’ll offer you better operational performance, security, scalability, and so on. 

Read More: Mobile App Development Cost Dubai, UAE [2025 Edition]

3 Strategic Ways to Reduce the Development Cost of a Video Streaming App 

Let’s learn the top 3 ways you can reduce video streaming app development cost:

1. Start with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product)

“Build a little, learn a lot” – this is the core motto of the Minimum Viable Product approach. 

Here, you can start small by building a video streaming app with basic features & functionality. Launch your video service app with core features only. It includes user registration, content streaming, search, and basic subscription. This allows you to save money upfront while testing the market, getting feedback, and validating your idea. Once your MVP gains traction, you can confidently approach investors and scale your app by adding advanced features like personalized AI-driven recommendations or live event streaming.

2. Use Ready-Made Streaming APIs & Infrastructure

If you want to build a video streaming app like Shahid but don’t want to start from scratch, consider this option. Incorporate third-party streaming, user management, and video processing technologies. AWS Media Services, Vimeo OTT, Mux, and other platforms provide scalable backend infrastructure at a significantly lower cost than custom solutions. This method significantly reduces server maintenance expenses and development time. 

3. Outsource to a Reliable Offshore Development Team

Hiring an experienced offshore team, particularly in regions such as India, Eastern Europe, or Southeast Asia, can be a cost-effective approach. 

If you’re hiring the Number #1 mobile app development company, you can cut costs by up to 60% compared to U.S. or E.U.-based development teams. To further reduce costs and expedite delivery, consider collaborating with iOS or Android developers who specialize in OTT app development. Most reputable companies offer a range of engagement models, including hourly billing, fixed-price contracts, and specialized development teams, that enable you to grow efficiently in line with your project goals.

Partner With Apptunix to Build a Video Streaming App Like Shahid

Join Apptunix, a leading mobile app development company, to build a video streaming app like Shahid. Our top-notch Android & iOS app developers, UX UI designers, product strategists, QA engineers, and other team members will assist you at every stage — from idea to launch and beyond. Whether you’re aiming to dominate a regional market like Shahid or build a niche-based global streaming app, we’ve got the expertise to bring your vision to life. The streaming industry is booming, and with the right team by your side, your investment can turn into a long-term revenue machine.

What We Offer:

• Custom Video Streaming App Development
  Fully tailored apps for iOS, Android, Smart TVs, and web platforms—built for scale and speed.
• High-Performance Video Delivery
  Smooth, buffer-free streaming with adaptive bitrate and cloud-based content delivery networks (CDNs).
• Monetization Features
  Integrate SVOD, AVOD, freemium, or pay-per-view models to generate steady revenue.
• Robust Backend Infrastructure
  Secure, scalable servers with advanced content management, encryption, and user analytics.
• Engaging UI/UX Design
  Intuitive and visually rich interfaces that enhance user engagement and retention.
• Ongoing Support & Maintenance
  Post-launch optimization, bug fixes, version upgrades, and feature enhancements—handled by us.

Ready to Build the Next Big Thing in Entertainment? Let’s Talk & Get Started with your Shahid-like video streaming app development.