Relocating to Indonesia as an expat comes with its share of excitement and challenges. From navigating Jakarta’s traffic to finding the best food delivery services, having the right apps can make your daily life smoother and more efficient. Thankfully, Indonesia offers a wide range of essential apps that help with transportation, food delivery, banking, and social connections.
According to EZPZ Jakarta, these apps are must-haves for expats living in Indonesia:
“With the right apps, expats can simplify their day-to-day life, stay connected, and make the most out of their time in Indonesia.” (EZPZ Jakarta, Must-Have Applications for Expats in Indonesia)
Here are 10 essential apps every expat in Indonesia should have.
- Gojek – Your All-in-One Super App
Gojek is Indonesia’s leading super app, offering a wide range of services:
- GoRide & GoCar: Motorbike and car rides for quick and affordable transport.
- GoFood: Extensive food delivery service with thousands of restaurant options.
- GoSend & GoShop: Package delivery and personal shopping services.
- GoPay: Integrated e-wallet for seamless payments.
📱 Available on iOS & Android
- Grab – Transportation & Food Delivery
Similar to Gojek, Grab is another popular app in Indonesia, offering:
- GrabBike & GrabCar: Reliable transportation options.
- GrabFood: A vast food delivery network.
- GrabExpress: Package delivery services.
- GrabPay: Secure e-wallet for daily transactions.
📱 Available on iOS & Android
- Tokopedia & Shopee – Online Shopping Made Easy
For online shopping, Tokopedia and Shopee are Indonesia’s top e-commerce platforms:
- Tokopedia: Wide range of products, from electronics to groceries.
- Shopee: Frequent sales and deals, especially during “flash sales” events.
- Both platforms support GoPay, OVO, and other local payment methods.
📱 Available on iOS & Android
- OVO & DANA – Trusted E-Wallets
Indonesia has embraced cashless payments, and OVO and DANA are two of the most widely used e-wallets:
- OVO: Linked to Grab and Tokopedia, offering cashback and rewards.
- DANA: Secure, user-friendly, and widely accepted in retail stores.
📱 Available on iOS & Android
- Google Maps & Waze – Navigate Jakarta’s Traffic
Navigating Jakarta’s traffic can be tricky. These apps help expats get around more efficiently:
- Google Maps: Real-time traffic updates, route suggestions, and public transport info.
- Waze: Community-driven app offering alternative routes to avoid traffic jams.
📱 Available on iOS & Android
- Halodoc – Healthcare at Your Fingertips
For easy access to medical services, Halodoc allows expats to:
- Consult with doctors online via chat or video calls.
- Book appointments at nearby hospitals.
- Order prescribed medications delivered to your home.
📱 Available on iOS & Android
- Bahasa Apps – Learn Indonesian Effortlessly
Learning basic Bahasa Indonesia will make life easier. Top language apps include:
- Duolingo: Fun and interactive lessons for beginners.
- Babbel: Structured courses focusing on real-life conversations.
- Memrise: Uses flashcards and videos to help memorize phrases.
📱 Available on iOS & Android
- WhatsApp – The Go-To Messaging App
In Indonesia, WhatsApp is the most popular messaging platform for personal and business communication. Many expats use WhatsApp for:
- Chatting with friends and colleagues.
- Joining local community groups.
- Scheduling appointments and deliveries.
📱 Available on iOS & Android
- Zomato – Discover the Best Restaurants
Zomato helps expats explore Jakarta’s culinary scene:
- Restaurant reviews, menus, and ratings.
- Curated lists of top dining spots and hidden gems.
- User-generated photos and recommendations.
📱 Available on iOS & Android
- Meetup – Build Your Social Circle
Meetup is a great way for expats to connect with like-minded people and expand their social circles in Indonesia:
- Join groups based on hobbies or interests.
- Attend local events, workshops, and social gatherings.
- Create your own group or event to meet new people.
📱 Available on iOS & Android
Final Thoughts: Navigating Life in Indonesia as an Expat
Having the right apps can help you navigate Indonesia smoothly, from ordering food and rides to connecting with the local community. Whether you’re in Jakarta, Bali, or Surabaya, these apps will make your daily life as an expat more convenient, efficient, and enjoyable.
For more expat tips and guides in Indonesia, explore Noble Properties Asia.
Source:
- EZPZ Jakarta. “Must-Have Applications for Expats in Indonesia.” Available at: https://ezpzjakarta.com/must-have-application-for-expats-in-indonesia/
