Mobibus, an innovation-led mobile company, has launched a mobile app maker offering to SMEs, entrepreneurs and individuals.

The ‘Do-It-Yourself’ mobile app will empower users to create, manage and publish their own professional-looking iOS and Android apps for smartphones and tablets, without the need for any technical or programming knowledge, said a statement.

Mobibus was founded by Pierre Azzam, Mohammed Johmani and Hussam Abu Zaalan with the vision to ‘democratise’ app development, it said.

While the majority of enterprises in the Mena region fall within the SME segment, comprising 80-90 per cent of total business in most countries, many are in need of finance in order to grow and expand, it said.

“The very concept of ‘Do-It-Yourself’ is going to be a game-changer for the region,” said Azzam. “Numerous studies have established the growing smartphone penetration in the Middle East and our increasing reliance on mobile technology in both our professional and personal lives.”

“Mobile technology is undoubtedly changing the way companies communicate with their audiences and conduct business. This drive for mobility means that, no matter what size your business, a mobile gateway that links you to your audience is essential,” he said.

“However, according to a study by the International Finance Corporation, 63 per cent of SMEs in the Mena region do not have access to finance and so may not always be able to allocate marketing budgets to drive their business,” he added.

Johmani added: “Until now, companies and individuals had to spend time and money to create a mobile app to market their businesses and interests. The Mobibus  app maker is particularly suited to SMEs, entrepreneurs and marketers who have no experience with application programming, yet are looking for a quick, easy and cost-effective way to mobilise a business or campaign without having to compromise on design or functionality.”

Zaalan explained that the platform, with dual English and Arabic interface, allows companies or individuals to create a customized mobile app to suit their business or personal needs in just four easy steps – register, design, manage, and preview and publish.

“With the increasing smartphone penetration across the region, coupled with the increasing reliance on mobile devices, businesses need to seriously consider mobile as a key touch point, not only to deliver information but to engage with their audiences and influence their decisions,” said Azzam. - TradeArabia News Service