How we developed a cross-platform React Native fintech app that achieved 50,000+ downloads in 6 months, processed AED 12M in transactions, and maintained 99.9% uptime for a confidential GCC startup.
The Challenge
A fintech startup in the GCC region approached us with an ambitious goal: build a mobile-first platform for peer-to-peer money transfers across GCC countries. They needed to launch in 16 weeks with limited budget, support both iOS and Android from day one, handle real-time transactions with zero tolerance for downtime, comply with UAE Central Bank regulations, and compete with established players like Western Union and MoneyGram.
Technical challenges: multi-currency support (AED, SAR, KWD, OMR, BHD, QAR), real-time exchange rates, KYC/AML compliance, secure transaction processing, push notifications for transaction updates, and wallet functionality with transaction history.
Our Solution
We chose React Native for cross-platform development, saving 40% vs building separate native apps. The tech stack: React Native (TypeScript) for mobile apps, Node.js + PostgreSQL backend, Firebase for push notifications and real-time features, Stripe Connect for payment processing, Plaid for bank account verification, AWS for hosting with auto-scaling.
Key features: biometric authentication (Face ID / fingerprint), instant P2P transfers (sub-3-second processing), multi-currency wallets with real-time rates, transaction history with PDF receipts, scheduled/recurring payments, KYC verification with document upload, referral program with in-app rewards, 24/7 in-app customer support.
Key Results
50,000+ downloads in first 6 months (exceeded target by 67%). 4.6/5 App Store rating across iOS and Android. AED 12M transaction volume processed in 6 months. 99.9% uptime (only 43 minutes downtime in 6 months). 68% 30-day user retention (industry average is 25-30%).
Timeline: 16 weeks from kickoff to App Store launch. Budget: AED 120,000 (development) + AED 8,500/month (infrastructure + maintenance). Technologies: React Native, TypeScript, Node.js, Express, PostgreSQL, Redis, Firebase, Stripe Connect, Plaid, AWS EC2/RDS/S3, Cloudflare CDN.
Client Testimonial
"Working with LUTF was a game-changer for our startup. We had a tight timeline and limited budget, and they delivered a production-ready app in just 16 weeks. What impressed us most was their proactive approach to security and compliance—they identified potential regulatory issues before we did and built solutions into the architecture from day one. The app has been incredibly stable, and our users consistently praise the UX. We've raised our Series A partly based on the strength of this product."
— CTO, Confidential Fintech Startup, GCC
"Working with LUTF was a game-changer for our startup. We had a tight timeline and limited budget, and they delivered."
