Zawaj vs Hawaya: an honest comparison.
Hawaya is another Muslim matchmaking app for people looking for a serious relationship. Here is how Zawaj differs.
This comparison is written by the Zawaj Marriage team, so we have an obvious interest. We have aimed to keep it fair and factual. Apps change their features often, so check each app’s own store listing for the latest. All app names are trademarks of their owners, and Zawaj is not affiliated with them.
About Hawaya.
Hawaya presents itself as a Muslim matchmaking app for people seeking a serious relationship.
For its current features and approach, read its own store listing.
Zawaj is marriage first.
Zawaj is built around nikah. A written proposal starts every conversation, and family can take part through the Chaperone/Wali feature.
It also includes a Qibla compass, prayer times and a community space.
Questions to ask of any marriage app.
Use this checklist for Hawaya or any other app. The middle column is what Zawaj does today; the last column is what to look for on Hawaya’s own listing.
| Question | Zawaj | Check on Hawaya |
|---|---|---|
| How do you start a conversation? | You send or receive a written proposal. There is no swiping or liking. | Check whether matching is by swipe, search or message. |
| Is it marriage-only? | Yes. The app is built around finding a spouse. | Check its description for dating, friendship or marriage. |
| Can a wali or family take part? | Yes, through the Chaperone/Wali feature. | Look for a chaperone or family feature. |
| When do calls open? | Voice and video calls open after a proposal is accepted. | Check whether calls are in-app and when they unlock. |
| Photos and safety | Photo moderation, photo blur, verification, reporting and blocking. | Look for verification, photo controls and reporting. |
| Is it free to join? | Yes. Creating a profile and browsing are free; Gold and Boosts are optional. | Check what is free and what needs a subscription. |
Compare, then decide.
Use the checklist above on both apps. If proposals, a wali feature and a marriage-only focus matter to you, Zawaj is designed for that.
Common questions.
Is Hawaya the same as Zawaj?
No. They are separate apps with different approaches. Compare using the checklist above.
Can I use both?
Yes. Many people use more than one app.
More comparisons and guides.
See the full Muzz alternatives page, the best Muslim dating and marriage apps, and how to choose the right app.
Try Zawaj alongside the rest.
Download Zawaj free — proposals, not swipes.
