How Startups Can Build Apps Similar to Tabby Card in 2025

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) apps like Tabby Card have transformed digital payments across the Middle East and globally, enabling consumers to split payments without traditional credit cards. In 2025, BNPL adoption is skyrocketing—reports suggest that by the end of 2025, more than $600 billion in global e-commerce transactions will be powered by BNPL solutions. For startups looking to replicate or surpass the success of Tabby, the opportunity is massive—but so is the competition.

This article will walk you through a comprehensive roadmap on how to build an app like Tabby Card in 2025, from strategic planning to technology stack, compliance, and scaling strategies. We'll also highlight why choosing an experienced development partner like Hyena Information Technologies can make the difference between building a good BNPL app and building a market leader.

📌 Why BNPL is Booming in 2025

Consumers increasingly want flexibility. Instead of maxing out credit cards or paying hefty interest, BNPL apps let users split payments over time with minimal or no extra charges. A study by Global Payments notes that BNPL usage has grown 3x since 2020, particularly in e-commerce, healthcare, travel, and B2B sectors. In regions like the UAE and KSA, adoption rates are outpacing traditional credit card penetration.

Startups that seize this opportunity now can build a strong foothold before the market saturates.

Step 1: Develop a Strategic Plan

Every successful BNPL startup begins with a clear vision and niche focus.

Define Your Niche

Instead of competing directly in the generic e-commerce space, identify underserved areas:

• Healthcare BNPL: Patients can split hospital bills or medical treatments.

• Travel BNPL: Allow users to book flights and hotels with installment payments.

• B2B BNPL: Provide SMEs with short-term financing options for procurement.

“The winners in fintech are those who identify gaps in customer experience and deliver solutions before the big players.” – Finextra 2025 Report

Create a Monetization Model

Revenue streams for BNPL apps like Tabby typically include:

• Merchant commissions: Charge 2–8% per transaction for driving sales.

• Late fees: Keep them small, transparent, and regulatory-compliant.

• Premium subscriptions: Offer higher limits, faster approvals, and exclusive discounts.

Identify Market Gaps

Study competitors like Tamara, Postpay, Klarna, and Afterpay. For example, while Klarna dominates Europe, MENA markets remain underserved—making them high-potential areas for new entrants.

Build a Scalable MVP

Your MVP should focus on:

• User registration and KYC verification

• Payment splitting

• Merchant directory with BNPL offers

Launching small helps validate your idea before investing heavily.

Step 2: Implement Key Features & Technology

BNPL apps succeed when technology meets usability. Here’s what to include:

Frontend (User-Facing App)

• Smooth onboarding: Frictionless KYC verification boosts trust.

• Flexible payment options: Clear installment schedules displayed upfront.

• Auto-deductions: Reduce missed payments with auto-pay.

• Transparent dashboard: Payment history, spending limits, and future dues.

• Reminders: Push notifications for due dates and offers.

Backend (Admin & Merchant Portal)

• AI-driven credit scoring: Instant approvals based on spending patterns.

• Fraud detection: Real-time ML models flagging suspicious activity.

• Merchant analytics dashboard: Insights into customer behavior.

• API integrations: Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento for merchants.

Recommended Tech Stack

• Frontend: Flutter or React Native (cross-platform, faster builds)

• Backend: Node.js or Python (scalable, developer-friendly)

• Database: PostgreSQL or MongoDB

• Cloud: AWS or Google Cloud for elastic scalability

• Security: OAuth 2.0, AES-256 encryption, PCI-DSS compliance

Step 3: Ensure Compliance and Security

BNPL is a financial product, so compliance and trust are non-negotiable.

• KYC/AML compliance: Follow regulations in every target market (UAE Central Bank, FCA in UK, SEC in USA).

• Data protection: Ensure GDPR, CCPA, and local privacy law compliance.

• Payment partnerships: Integrate with payment processors like Stripe, Visa, Mastercard.

• Third-party credit checks: Partner with credit bureaus to enhance scoring models.

Rigorous penetration testing and fraud simulations must be done before launch.

Step 4: Market and Scale Your App

Even the best BNPL app will fail without strong marketing and scaling strategies.

Go-To-Market Strategy

• Influencer marketing: Especially effective in the GCC region.

• Referral programs: Encourage viral growth through friend referrals.

• ASO optimization: Target keywords like BNPL app development and Build Buy Now Pay Later app for app store ranking.

Scaling Globally

After initial traction, expand to:

• USA & UK: Competitive but high-value markets.

• India: Fastest-growing fintech adoption base.

• Middle East (UAE, KSA, Qatar): Untapped potential with regulatory support.

Tabby Card vs. Other BNPL Apps

What makes Tabby stand out in 2025?

• Strong merchant partnerships with top regional brands

• User-friendly design with minimal friction

• Trust & compliance—regulatory approvals that ensure safety

Startups can learn from these differentiators and localize features for their markets.

Development Partner: Why Hyena Information Technologies?

Choosing the right mobile app development company is critical. Hyena Information Technologies has built award-winning fintech and BNPL apps across the Middle East, USA, UK, India, and globally. Their expertise in AI-driven credit scoring, fraud detection, and regulatory compliance makes them the ideal partner for startups entering the BNPL space.

“Hyena helped us scale from an MVP to a fully compliant BNPL app in less than 10 months.” – CEO, Leading Fintech Startup

From design to deployment, Hyena offers end-to-end mobile wallet and BNPL solutions, reducing risk for startups.

FAQ

What is the cost to build an app like Tabby Card in 2025?

Development costs vary between $80,000 – $250,000+ depending on features, complexity, and compliance requirements.

How do BNPL apps like Tabby work?

They partner with merchants to split consumer payments into installments while merchants get paid upfront.

What features should startups include in a Tabby-like app?

Core features: seamless onboarding, flexible installments, AI credit scoring, fraud detection, and merchant dashboards.

Which technologies are best for developing BNPL apps?

Flutter, React Native, Node.js, Python, MongoDB, AWS are top picks in 2025.

How do BNPL apps make money?

Through merchant fees, late fees, and premium subscriptions.

Is it legal and safe to build a BNPL app in the USA, Middle East, and globally?

Yes, but compliance with KYC, AML, and financial regulations is mandatory.

How long does it take to develop an app like Tabby Card?

MVPs can be built in 4–6 months, while full-scale BNPL apps may take 9–12 months.

Key Takeaways

• BNPL is booming in 2025 with huge opportunities in emerging markets.

• Startups must identify niches like healthcare, travel, and B2B BNPL.

• Success requires AI-driven credit scoring, fraud prevention, and compliance.

• Partnering with Hyena Information Technologies can help startups build world-class BNPL apps quickly and securely.

• Cost ranges from $80K–$250K, with a 6–12 month timeline.

Final Thoughts

Building an app like Tabby Card in 2025 is not just about copying features—it’s about innovating for the next generation of consumers who value trust, flexibility, and financial empowerment. With the right strategic planning, cutting-edge technology, and a trusted partner like Hyena Information Technologies, startups can not only enter the BNPL market but also thrive in it.