In this digital world, there are many tools available to facilitate people in easily connecting with others worldwide. One such tool is the Raya app, about which people are very curious owing to its acclaim as the ’celebrity dating app.‘ Whether you’re considering applying or simply curious about the buzz, knowing what it’s truly designed to offer helps set realistic expectations.
In this blog, we’ll unlock everything you need to know about the Raya app, including its features, age restrictions, and whether it’s a good fit for you. You’ll also find essential insights for parents who want to understand apps like Raya better and help their teens navigate the digital world responsibly.
What is the Raya app?
Raya (meaning friend in Hebrew) is a unique membership-based dating app for only iPhone users, founded in 2014 by Daniel Gendelman. It has a restrictive membership process: to join, you must be vetted by a committee and often referred by existing members. Owing to this exclusivity, it’s renowned among celebrities or high-flying people who value privacy and want a hand-selected social experience.
It’s worth noting that the Raya app officially went live in 2015 in Los Angeles with the idea of a dating app. Later on, it added features to support professional networking and social discovery for like-minded people in high-profile industries. The most recent addition is Charlize Theron, who hopped on the app after splitting from her model boyfriend (Alex Dimitrijevic) in November.
Vogue writer Karley Sciortino called Raya “the Soho House” and “the you can’t sit with us” of dating apps. She also wrote, “The consensus seems to be: Why go to a party that lets everyone in when you could go to the party that accepts only a select few?”
Key features
- Profile Creation: The Raya app lets you create your profile, displaying your interests, hobbies and professional details. Raya also supports Instagram linking.
- Discovery: It also provides you with a map view or directory, helping in finding nearby members or those with shared interests.
- Social Features: Allows its users to privately chat, make voice/video calls, or join group chats with others. Owing to its members’ screening or in-app communication, the conversations remain more secure.
- Music Features: Additionally, Raya supports Spotify, letting you easily stream your favorite songs with other members.
A guide to a private social world.
How does the Raya app work?
Unlike other dating apps like Tinder or Bumble, Raya basically uses a highly vetted invitation-based system. Kevin Roose ( American author & generalist) has reported that from millions of applications, Raya has approved only 8% contributing to its 10,000-member community.
This selected model gives users the benefits of privacy and even the community of like-minded high-profile people. This way reduces spam, fake profiles, or unwanted attention.
| Raya | Mainstream Apps (e.g., Tinder, Bumble, Hinge) | |
| Who can join? | Only approved members after review | Anyone can sign up instantly |
| Exclusivity | High | Low |
| User base | Celebrities, influencers, high-profile professionals | The general public from all backgrounds |
| Privacy level | High – no public profiles, limited access | Variable – depends on app settings |
| Growth model | Word of mouth, no advertising | Marketing, app store promotions, open registration |
The application and approval process
Step 1Step 1: Get a referral (optional but helpful)
Before you apply for the Raya app, ask a Raya member to refer you. This way it gives the committee the impression that an existing member trusts you.
Step 2Step 2: Download and install the app
You can get it from the App Store and start the sign-up process by entering the basic information like your name, email, phone number, etc.
Step 3Step 3: Complete your profile carefully
This step is crucial, since your profile is what allows other users or the committee to form an impression of your personality & credibility, what you should include: your Instagram link (optional but recommended), clear photos, your job/industry, and a short bio.
Step 4Step 4: Write a strong submission
- Specific details about your professional work.
- Mention achievements, credits, recognition, press features, or milestones.
- Include links to online portfolios, music, exhibitions, IMDb credits, interviews, published work or major career projects.
Keep your data concise but meaningful; your submission should make the committee feel you bring something interesting to the Raya community.
Step 5Step 5: Submit for committee review
Upon completing your profile setup, your application will be handed over to Raya’s review committee. This committee would consider:
- Your career or field
- Your influence or public reach
- Creative accomplishments
- Overall uniqueness
- How positively you might contribute to the community
- Whether an existing member referred you
After this, just wait for the decision, like whether your application gets approved/rejected/waitlisted. If you are waitlisted, your profile stays in the queue. You may remain there for weeks or even months until space opens or your profile becomes more appealing.
Once approved, you’ll receive a notification and be asked to select a subscription plan. That’s all!
How much does Raya Membership cost?
According to Raya’s information on the App Store page, it has the following basic subscription model:
- 1 Month Membership: $19.99
- 6 Month Membership: $89.99
- 12 Month Membership: $119.99
You can also pay for extra features on the app, like buying extra likes and signing up for a premium Raya+ membership.
Is the Raya app suitable for everyone?
It’s important to consider that Raya isn’t like a general dating app. It’s indeed built around creativity, achievement, and privacy. The above sections break down how it works, why it’s so selective, and what membership really looks like. Here are some additional factors to help you decide whether the Raya app is the right option.
Age restrictions and user guidelines
Raya requires users to be 18 years or older to create an account, meeting legal safety standards. It builds a curated social network designed for creatives, entrepreneurs, and public figures seeking meaningful connections in a secure, members-only environment.
Rules of conduct: One thing that sets Raya apart from others is its privacy or safety-centred nature. It’s mandatory for users to follow the rules:
- Impermissible to take screenshots of other profiles
- No sharing private conversations outside the app
- Respectful behavior when messaging & connecting
- Using the platform for genuine, constructive interaction
Consequences for breaking community rules: If any of its users break the rules, the Raya app would immediately take action, such as:
- Issue a warning
- Restrict app features
- Suspend the account
- Permanently remove the member
Potential benefits and drawbacks of exclusive platforms
- Higher quality interactions
- Greater privacy and discretion
- Curated and focused community
- More serious and meaningful connections
- It could feel like a “members-only” club
- High membership costs
- Lengthy and selective application process
- Social pressure to maintain a perfect profile
[Bonus]How can parents talk to teens about social apps like Raya?
Even though dating apps like Raya are only for adults, their influence can indirectly reach teens. Talk about Raya; it’s sometimes called the celebrity app. Exposure to celebrity lifestyles, curated online trends, and selective social networks can affect how teens think about popularity, social validation, and relationships. That’s why understanding this influence is the first step for parents to guide teens safely in the online world.
Build open communication and trust
Give a safe space to your kids where they can openly share about their online activities. According to Philip Daniel De Jesus, “when kids believe your first goal is to emphasize and understand rather than to admonish and correct, you leave the door open for future conversations.”
Politely ask your kids about their interests or opinions regarding online communities and listen attentively without judging. This way, you would better guide them regarding their digital safety.
Stay informed
Additionally, familiarize yourself with popular apps, their features and potential risks – even if the apps are not intended for teens. That’s because kids may hear about them from their friends or online and develop curiosity regarding their usage. If you know about how such platforms work, you’ll give better advice and prevent kids from bypassing restrictions.
Encouraging digital mindfulness
Guide teens to think critically before following any trend online. Make it clear that the type of content they see online, like the celebrity-focused or curated app, is not ideal. Instead of feeling pressured or insecure, encourage them to appreciate what they have and focus on their own strengths.
Final thoughts
In short, the Raya app is considered a perfect blend of dating, networking, and social features. Its exclusivity and member approval process set it apart from general dating apps. For adults exploring the app, understanding its expectations, costs, and community guidelines is essential. And for parents, staying informed about apps like Raya offers an opportunity to guide teens toward healthier, safer digital habits, even when the platforms aren’t created for them. If your teens talk about such platforms, you’ll be better able to guide them and ensure safe interactions.
FAQs
Absolutely No. Non-celebrities who meet the selective approval criteria definitely have a shot at getting accepted onto the app. Although most celebrities are reported to use this app for privacy, that doesn’t mean it’s limited to them. Fame can help you, but it’s not the condition.
You’ll first create your profile, including your specific information about your location, career, etc, and get a referral from a current Raya user. After submitting the report, it’ll be reviewed by the Raya’s committee that evaluates your profession, achievements, and uniqueness. This committee basically decides whether to approve you or put you on the waiting list.
Important to mention that Raya is a very selective app, it greenlights about 8 out of every 100 applicants. Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t get accepted. Some celebrities don’t even get accepted onto Raya! Singer Demi Lovato and reality TV star Hannah Brown have both had trouble getting on the platform.
