"A Website Is Too Expensive." Let's Compare It to What You Already Spend.
This is the most common reason GCC business owners give for not having a website. It sounds reasonable. But it usually comes from comparing the website to zero, instead of comparing it to what's already leaving your account every month.
The wrong comparison
Website cost vs. nothing. Of course the website loses.
The right comparison
Website cost vs. the ad money you lose every month because buyers have nowhere to finish their purchase.
Fill in your own numbers:
| Line | Your number |
|---|---|
| A. Monthly ad spend | |
| B. Clicks or messages per month | |
| C. Share who never complete an order (your estimate) | |
| D. Money spent on buyers who left (A × C) | |
| E. One-time website cost | |
| Months until E is covered (E ÷ D) |
If D is large, the website isn't an expense. It's how you stop the leak.
What actually drives the price
- Number of pages and products. A one-product store costs far less than a catalogue.
- Languages. Arabic and English means two sets of content, written properly.
- Payments and delivery. Local payment gateways and shipping links add setup work.
- Custom design vs. template. A brand-matched design costs more and converts better.
Start small, then grow
You don't need everything on day one. Start with one strong page for your best seller, connect payment, then add products as sales come in.
FAQ
Is a free website builder enough?
It can work for a test. Most owners outgrow it when they need Arabic, local payments or a proper brand look.
Are there monthly costs after launch?
Yes, usually hosting and the domain, and sometimes platform fees. Ask for these upfront.
What's the cheapest useful website?
One page: your product, price, trust details and a buy or WhatsApp button.
Not ready yet? Send your monthly ad spend and handle, and get your numbers plus a free mockup.
Keep Reading
See what’s included in a Sawa website
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