Your Opinion Needed: Building a Muslim-Focused Social Media Platform

I recently came across a Twitter post that said:
"The person or team who can deliver a viable social media platform for Muslims would be a hero to the Ummah..."

This got me thinking deeply. As a recent Computer Science graduate with experience in building primarily Android applications, I’m considering taking on this enourmous challenge. I’ve previously developed projects like an Islamic Society Chat and Event Platform for London niversities using Android Studio, which has given me the experience to set up infrastructure for user management, posts, and interactive features.

The Idea

The goal would be to create a mentally healthy, faith-based social media app tailored for Muslims. The platform would focus on fostering a safe and uplifting online space, free from the distractions, toxicity, and far-right ideologies found on many existing platforms.

I’ve been brainstorming a few potential app styles:

  1. Twitter-style: Short posts and Islamic discussions (e.g., reminders, du’as, Islamic knowledge sharing).
  2. TikTok-style: Short, engaging video content (e.g., Qur’an recitations, motivational reminders, halal DIYs).
  3. Instagram-style: Focused on photos, events, and community sharing (e.g., halal food, masjid events, creative Islamic art).

Questions for the Community

  1. What type of platform do you think would be most beneficial for the Muslim Ummah?
    • Should it focus on knowledge-sharing, creativity, or community-building?
  2. What features would you love to see on a Muslim-focused social media app?
    • Examples: Prayer time tools, halal business directories, trending Islamic challenges, etc.
  3. What are the biggest pitfalls I should avoid?
    • E.g., how to keep the platform aligned with Islamic values while being engaging.

As of now, I have experience building Android apps, so I would initially focus on creating an Android-only app. Unfortunately, this means I wouldn’t be able to cater to iOS users right away. However, if the app gains traction, I would consider expanding to other platforms in the future, potentially with the help of cross-platform tools.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas! If you’ve ever wanted a social media platform built for Muslims, what would you envision? Any advice or feedback is welcome, especially from anyone with experience in tech or community building.

JazakAllahu Khairan in advance for your input! 🙏