Do you feel that finding love has become difficult, or that even after making countless efforts, the results are still not what you hoped for? In many cases, the challenge lies not in the effort but in the approach. Today, with the rise of dating platforms, geographical boundaries are no longer a limitation. As the number of dating apps continues to grow, users are increasingly seeking platforms that offer enhanced privacy and high-quality profiles. This is where Raya stands out, one of the most prominent dating apps that connects everyday individuals with high-profile public figures such as celebrities, entrepreneurs, and professionals. In this blog, we explore what Raya is, how to build an app like Raya, its development cost, and everything you need to know about it.
Raya was launched in 2015 as a private dating application. Over time, it has evolved into one of the most popular all-purpose platforms for meeting, networking, and dating. The app is a top choice among celebrities, allowing users to create profiles and connect with individuals who share similar interests. Platforms like Raya follow a strict sign-up process, often referred to as admission guidelines.
To join the platform, users must submit an application, which undergoes review by an anonymous committee that determines eligibility. Unlike generic dating apps, Raya is highly exclusive, with an acceptance rate of only around 8%. During the application process, profiles are evaluated based on social media activity and personal achievements. Moreover, members who fail to follow community guidelines risk account suspension or permanent termination. With its rigorous screening and moderation system, Raya stands out as one of the most secure dating applications, offering enhanced privacy and controlled visibility.
Users often refer to Raya by alternative names such as the “go-to dating app” and “The Soho House of dating apps.” The platform has remained in the spotlight due to its association with celebrities like Channing Tatum and Cara Delevingne. Singer Lily Allen met her partner through Raya. She was previously married to David Harbour, a well-known actor from the Netflix series Stranger Things. Following their divorce in 2025, rumors suggest that Lily Allen rejoined the dating app. And this is only the beginning. Reports claim that one anonymous artist paid $10,000 in cash solely for account creation to gain access to an app like Raya. In addition, several other celebrities, including Harry Styles, Sharon Stone, and Ruby Rose, are rumored to have accounts on the platform.
Until now, we discussed everything related to the Raya Dating App, and now it’s crucial to know that it follows one of the most complex procedures. Here is the detailed process of how Raya works and the steps involved in it.
Unlike other dating sites, the Raya dating application offers exclusive membership, and users need to go through a strict screening process. You can download this app from the App Store only, as this app is available only for iPhone users. After the download is complete, users can sign up with the help of their Instagram login. Keep in mind that your application will be assessed on three major criteria i,e your social media presence, professional background, and influence.
The next step is profile setup and approval, where users can optimize their personal profile by adding pictures and updating their bio. An engaging profile has a higher chance of selection as compared to a profile that is not well-maintained. The approval and review process is a time-consuming procedure that can take days or even weeks to get completed. After selection, users receive a formal notification regarding acceptance of their application.
Although Raya is known as a celebrity dating app, it is also widely used for networking and forming meaningful connections. Users can browse profiles, send messages, and connect with people who share similar interests. The matching algorithm works based on shared interests, careers, and social circles, a concept also seen when startups aim to build a Dating App like Tinder, but with a more exclusive approach.
Apps like Raya are not just exclusive but rather offer enhanced privacy and security control to their users. You cannot take screenshots as it’s strictly prohibited. Even if you try to capture the screen, an alert will pop up as a warning. The worst can be account removal from the platform if you don’t abide by the security measures. You can integrate Instagram to interact seamlessly with other users without disclosing your personal details.
Now you know “What is Raya”? Then you should also know that it’s a free app, but to access premium features, you need to make in-app purchases. The cost of making one direct request is around $4.99, and the full membership costs around $113.99. Although the Raya membership fee is very minimal, the features and advantages offered by it hold great value for its users.
How much Raya costs will not be a question anymore because here is a complete breakdown of its cost. There are multiple models of Raya, and each has its own pricing and membership fees, which are as follows:
All you need to make a swipe to get started with Tinder. Select your partner, set up a date, and there you go. Speak about your personality just by answering the prompt, updating your preferences, and adding your profile picture to get better and more reliable connections. Tinder has started the swipe game, where you can swipe right for like-minded individuals and swipe left for people who don’t match your preferences. You don’t need to be a big star to use this app. Whether you are single or bisexual, this app caters to all users with neutrality.
Are you looking to date someone in your own city? Then, ok cupid dating should be your priority list. Before getting started, you need a profile with your picture and must fill out the necessary information like name, age, and city. To find a person on this dating app, you just need to enter their name, and unlike Instagram, you will be able to view their stories and get to know about their life updates. The location-based setting enables finding people in your area.
If you are searching for a person based on zodiac signs and personality, then Boo will be the perfect choice for you. This app provides personality analysis for improving conversations. Additionally, this platform suggests date ideas that help build successful relationships. Just like the Raya dating app, you can make calls and send texts to your connections. For enhanced security, you can authenticate your profile to safeguard yourself from catfish and bots.
TanTan is an Asian dating app with a live chat feature where you get connected with like-minded individuals and receive an instant reply to your messages. To receive instant user attention, this app comes with features of badges and highlighted usernames. In its premium feature, users can re-swipe in case they accidentally swiped a person.
Badoo is another dating app like Raya, suitable for users who are on the lookout for reliable and genuine partners. This app comes with the features of a deception detector, fake and spam account analyzer, and its precise filters help you identify the best match.
For building a dating app like Raya, you need to connect with a reliable dating7 app development company. It will guide you through the entire process and will break down the cost estimation required at each level. Here is a tabular representation that will help you analyze the budget requirements.
| Features | Estimated Cost Range |
| UI / UX | $5000 – $15000 |
| User Verification and Authentication Process | $7000 – $20000 |
| AI-enabled Matchmaking | $15000 – $40000 |
| Privacy and Security Features | $10000 – $30000 |
| Messaging and Video Chat | $20000 – $50000 |
| Geolocation and Nearby Match | $10000 – $25000 |
| Subscription and In-App Purchases | $10000 – $30000 |
| Social Media Integration | $5000 – $15000 |
| App Deployment (iOS / Android) | $10000 – $30000 |
| Marketing and Maintenance | $500 – $20000 (continuous) |
If you are a developer, company, or business owner and are highly impressed with the dating concept and want to launch your dating application like Raya, you are in the right place. Telepathy Infotech is the leading dating app development company working to transform dating applications, which are more secure and cater to user requirements. From embedding in-app chat APIs to providing seamless engagement and interactions to users, our experts take care of everything. Building a dating app on a budget is only possible with the help of Telepathy Infotech.
In today’s modern times, dating apps are the new normal. The enhanced features and functionalities had made it a fun concept. Now, “What is Raya?” This will not be a question anymore. The reason is that everyone knows that Raya is a celebrity dating app. If you want to build an app like Raya, then there is no better time than this to enter the market. Industry experts at Telepathy Infotech will help you build an exceptional dating app with phenomenal performance.
Technical Content Writer
Bhavika Jain is a skilled content writer specializing in the IT domain, with a strong ability to break down complex topics in software development and digital marketing into clear, engaging content. Her expertise in writing, editing, and proofreading ensures consistently high-quality output across blogs, web pages, and technical guides. Through thoughtful and well-structured content, she enhances communication, strengthens marketing efforts, and improves overall user engagement.