Raya Review Explained: How to Use It & More

Raya, meaning 'friend' in Hebrew, has been mysterious since the app's inception in 2015. There was no PR or marketing campaign from the team that launched the dating app, relying solely on word of mouth to spread its gospel.

Even the app's founder, maverick Daniel Gendelman, didn't reveal his identity till last year in an interview in The New York Times. He explained the intent behind the app as trying to solve a big problem for a small amount of people.

This is quite understandable because certain people on many dating apps, especially celebrities, are wary of widely available dating apps.

In 2018, the Raya app reportedly had over 10,000 members and 100,000+ on the waiting list.

Here are the following steps to download Raya dating app:

Step 1: Search for Raya in the App Store for iPhone users or Google Play for Android users.

Step 2: Click on the app and hit the download button.

Step 3: Open the app and continue to sign up. You must sign up with your Instagram account to create your Raya profile.

Step 4: This is where Raya's judges will screen your application and decide if you should be on the app.

Step 5: You can use the approval waiting time to craft a killer bio. It helps to highlight your passions, quirks, and what makes you tick in expressive and authentic ways.

Step 6: Raya is big on building connections, so you can add your friends to your profile to showcase the power of your social circle.

Step 7: Now that you've set up your Raya profile, you can explore and your social links join its exclusive community to match with like-minded individuals.

Here are some reasons that make Raya so endearing to many people on the celebrity dating app scene.

• Raya's star-studded user base is its main selling point. If you've ever wanted to roll with your favorite celebrities, artists, and influencers, Raya brings the stars closer than you ever imagined.
• Its application-only access ensures every member is genuinely invested in the Raya experience.
• Raya integrates seamlessly with your Instagram, which adds a visually creative vibe to your profile. It makes it easier to leave a lasting impression, not just another swipe right or left hub.
• Due to Raya's bring your crew along feature, you can add your friends to your profile to add a touch of authenticity to your dating journey.
• Raya offers the highest level of discretion and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals.
• Raya's dating community thrives on connections. Being on the app is an excellent way to expand your social circles and make meaningful connections.

Pros

• A-list community and user base.
• Its application-only access adds a layer of intentionality to the community.
• Raya's integration with Instagram encourages visual storytelling and lets you create exciting impressions of yourself.
• The app prioritizes user privacy in a world where online privacy is crucial.
• Raya's algorithm is top-notch. The app prioritizes quality over quantity by bringing matches that align with your interests and values your way.
• Raya offers the chance to expand your social circles and goes beyond traditional dating by providing events and networking opportunities.

Cons

• The application process is a hurdle that requires patience, and not everyone enjoys waiting for approval.
• A limited user base means Raya's dating pool is smaller than that of mainstream apps.
• Raya is a niche dating app at best and might not align with many people's dating preferences.

Raya's application process is pretty straightforward. You're asked for your name, date of birth, location, industry, occupation, and Instagram username.

Even though not explicitly stated, filling out the application alone is not enough. Raya says its screen committee members look for "something extra" when going through applications. 

Your social media presence is a difference in whether you become accepted. Being an influencer with a large following and a blue checkmark could speed up your application.

Raya Dating App Cost and Pricing

Raya is not free, and the monthly subscription fee is $9.99. Standard membership starts at $19.99 per month if paid monthly, $14 monthly for six months, or $9 monthly for a year.

Raya Plus membership starts at $49.99 monthly, $239.99 for six months, or $349.99 annually.

Raya also offers auto-renewing memberships for one, six, or 12 months.

Tips and Strategies to Increase Chances of Getting Accepted on Raya Dating App

Building a stellar profile by investing in high-quality photos that showcase your personality and interests is an excellent way to start. 

Ensure to craft a compelling bio that tells stories of your interests and highlights your uniqueness. Be expressive about your experiences, avoid clichés and generic statements, and let your opening line set the tone.

Increasing your social proof through your Instagram account can add credibility to your profile and make your Raya application more desirable.

Above all, be patient and persistent, and don't be discouraged if you're not accepted on the first try. Keep building your social proof and refining your profile. Remember that Raya is looking for enjoyable people with something valuable to offer the community.

Due to the public scrutiny and paparazzi that accompany finding love and dating life even for celebrities, Raya offers exclusivity for the rich and famous.

Notable Celebrities on Raya Dating App

Lots of celebrities have used Raya to find dates due to all of the perks it offers. Demi Lovato reveals in a video for her documentary that she chose Raya to find a match after her split from Wilmer Valderrama in 2016.

After his split from Jessie J in November 2019, Channing Tatum joined the dating app. Magic Mike's Raya profile song was "Brown Sugar" by D'Angelo, and his bio reads, "And yes, I used to be a stripper."

Kiernan Shipka was reported saying, "Raya for life. Love it. God bless Raya," Andy Cohen revealed he joined Raya during the season 12 RHOBH reunion.

In July 2024, Katie Thurston revealed she joined Raya after her split from John Hersey.

Privacy and Security Measures on Raya Dating App

Raya ensures a safe and secure environment for its members by implementing several key features:

• Rigorous vetting to minimize the risk of catfishing and scams. The review process includes background checks and social media verification.
• Users can maintain anonymity by choosing who sees their bio, pictures, and other information. 
• Profile photo verification to safeguard against inauthentic profiles.
• No screenshots or recordings to protect users from unwanted exposure and potential leaks.
• Strict non-disclosure agreements prevent members from sharing personal information about other users outside the app.
• A team of dedicated security professionals constantly monitors the app against any attack.
• Transparency over user data.