Why 2GIS is the Best App for City Navigation: Features, Tips, and Benefits?

Navigating a busy city can be a total nightmare—especially when you’re completely clueless about where you are and stuck in unpredictable traffic. 2GIS is a city navigation app that provides detailed maps, real-time traffic updates, and a comprehensive business directory, making it a lifesaver for getting from point A to point B and discovering interesting places around you. This guide is for city dwellers, travelers, and anyone seeking reliable navigation in urban environments. With its unique offline capabilities and detailed business directory, 2GIS is especially valuable in regions with limited connectivity or for users who need hyper-local information.

Whether you want to pop to the shops, try a new spot, or just find the quickest route, having a decent city navigation app at your fingertips is an absolute must-have. That’s where 2GIS comes in. Unlike your run-of-the-mill map app, it’s not just a generic mapping tool—it delivers a super-smooth user experience with detailed maps, real-time traffic updates, and a host of useful features that make city navigation a breeze. 2GIS also operates as a "Yellow Pages" integrated into a 3D city map, making it easy to find local businesses and services.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what makes 2GIS a solid choice for city navigation. We’ll explore its main features—offline maps, public transport routes, local business info, and more—and share handy tips to help you get the best out of the app.

What is 2GIS?

2GIS app is recognized as one of the top city navigation app, especially in the UAE and neighboring regions, thanks to its ability to offer more than just basic mapping. It provides an incredibly detailed, "ground-level" view of urban areas, combining highly accurate 3D city maps with up-to-date business directories. In addition to precise multi-mode navigation, the app also works offline, making it a versatile and reliable tool for city exploration.

Key Features of 2GIS

2GIS is a maps and navigation app that provides detailed information offline, making it a powerful tool for anyone navigating a city. Developed by a Russian local search company, 2GIS creates digital maps and guides for cities in various countries, including Russia, Kazakhstan, Italy, and the UAE.

2GIS is a specialized geoinformation system that combines detailed 3D maps, a massive business directory, and a variety of navigation options. It gives you a highly detailed view of what a city looks like, with accurate 3D maps and up-to-date info on businesses. Plus, it offers super-useful navigation options, all of which work offline so you can still use it even when you don’t have a signal.

Now that you know what 2GIS is, let's take a look at its key features that make it stand out from the crowd.

Detailed Offline Maps & Navigation

Complete Offline Functionality: 2GIS map download allows users to download city maps for offline use, meaning you can access navigation, search, and directory features without needing an active internet connection. This ensures reliable navigation even in areas with poor network coverage.

High-Detail 3D Maps: The 2gis map offers highly detailed visuals, including precise representations of buildings, driveways, fences, and even 3D models of prominent landmarks, such as the Burj Khalifa, in certain locations. This 3D approach provides a realistic view of the city, making it easier to navigate.

Indoor Maps: For larger buildings like shopping malls, airports, and train stations, 2GIS offers indoor, floor-by-floor layouts, allowing you to easily navigate through multi-story structures.

Vector Rendering: 2GIS offline maps are built using satellite imagery and verified by field experts, ensuring that the information is both accurate and up-to-date.

Comprehensive Business Directory & Search

Verified Information: 2GIS ae serves as a detailed business directory, providing accurate and up-to-date information on millions of organizations. It includes addresses, phone numbers, working hours, and more, helping users find everything they need.

Smart Search: The app’s search engine is robust and intelligent, capable of handling typos and incomplete queries. You can search for companies by name, business specialty, or even common colloquial names, ensuring you always find what you're looking for.

Detailed Company Profiles: Each business listing comes with an in-depth profile, which includes useful details like entrance locations, accepted payment methods (cash or card), social media links, and user reviews, giving you all the information you need in one place.

Advanced Navigation and Traffic

Multi-Modal Routing: 2GIS Dubai provides routing for multiple modes of transportation, including cars, walking, and public transit. Whether you’re driving, walking, or using public transport, you can find the best route to your destination.

Public Transit Guide: The app displays accurate public transport routes and schedules, making it easy to navigate buses, subways, and trams. It shows the nearest stops and provides real-time updates.

Real-Time Traffic & Road Events: Stay updated with live traffic information, including details about road closures, accidents, speed cameras, and congestion. This feature helps you avoid delays and plan your routes efficiently.

Truck Navigator: Designed specifically for cargo transport, the truck navigation mode takes into account your vehicle’s size, weight, and any road restrictions, ensuring that truck drivers can safely and efficiently reach their destinations.

Voice Guidance: 2GIS offers spoken, turn-by-turn navigation instructions, making it easier to follow directions while driving or walking without needing to constantly check your screen.

Specialized Features & Tools

Parking Information: 2GIS helps you find nearby places and parking lots, highlighting both free and paid options. This feature is a lifesaver when you're driving in busy areas with limited parking spaces.

"Friends on the Map": The app includes a social feature that allows users to share their location with friends and see where their friends are on the map. This can be useful for meeting up or simply staying in touch.

"Floors" Feature: For complex multi-story buildings, 2GIS provides detailed floor plans, making it easier to navigate inside large structures like shopping malls, office buildings, and airports.

API and SDK: 2GIS is one of the best local navigation app that offers developers the ability to integrate its maps, search, and navigation features into third-party websites and applications through its API and SDK. This allows businesses and services to leverage 2GIS’ powerful navigation tools.

Multi-Platform Accessibility

Mobile App: 2GIS is available as a mobile app for both iOS and Android devices. It also integrates with Android Auto, ensuring a seamless experience while driving.

Desktop & Web: In addition to the mobile app, 2GIS offers a PC application for Windows users and a browser-based web version, making it easy to access the service from any device, whether you're at home, at work, or on the go.

How to Install and Use 2GIS?

To get started with 2GIS, download the app from the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android). Once installed, open the app to download the required city maps for offline use. 2GIS download offers detailed 3D maps, precise navigation, and up-to-date public transport routes, ensuring you can navigate easily, even without an internet connection.

How to Install 2GIS?

Mobile Installation: To get started with 2GIS, simply search for "2GIS" in either the App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play (for Android devices), then tap the "Install" button. The app is free to download and will only take a few moments to install on your device.

Initial Setup: Once the app is installed, launch it. The first time you open the app, it will prompt you to download the map for your current location. This step ensures that you have the necessary data available for offline use, allowing you to navigate even without an active internet connection.

System Requirements: 2GIS requires iOS 8.0 or later for Apple devices and Android 4.4 or higher for Android devices. Ensure your device meets these minimum requirements to enjoy the full range of features.

How to Use 2GIS?

Download Maps for Offline Use: To get started with offline maps and navigation, open the app and access the sidebar menu. From there, select "List of Cities." This option will allow you to choose and download the maps for the cities you plan to visit or navigate within. Once downloaded, these maps can be used without an internet connection, making it perfect for traveling in areas with limited or no network access.

Navigation: 2GIS provides an easy-to-use navigation feature. Whether you're driving, taking public transportation, or walking, simply input your destination and select your preferred mode of transport. After you've downloaded the maps for offline use, navigation works seamlessly without needing an internet connection. You’ll get turn-by-turn directions, real-time updates on traffic conditions, and other useful details along the way.

Search Functionality: The app's search bar allows you to find addresses, businesses, phone numbers, and even working hours of local establishments. It’s a convenient way to discover nearby companies or services. The search engine works efficiently, even when you’re offline, and can handle typos or incomplete queries to find what you need.

Tips for Using 2GIS Effectively

Download City Maps for Offline Use

• Download Maps: To use 2GIS without an internet connection, go to the "List of Cities" menu and download the maps for your city or region. This feature helps you save data and ensures the app continues to work in areas with poor reception or no connectivity.
• Update Regularly: It’s essential to keep your offline city maps updated to stay informed about the latest changes, such as road closures, newly added traffic routes, and updated business directory listings. Regular updates ensure that your maps remain accurate and reliable.

Advanced Route Planning 

• Choose Specific Transport Types: In the route settings, 2GIS lets you specify which types of public transport you want to include or exclude in your route planning. For example, you can avoid buses, prefer the metro, or select other transportation modes based on your preferences.
• Identify Entrances: 2GIS excels in helping you navigate complex, large buildings and areas. It often provides detailed visuals of building entrances, which is especially useful when you're navigating large complexes or shopping malls with multiple entrances.
• Adjust Routes: If you want to customize your route, simply hold down the mouse button on the blue route line and drag it to a different street. This feature allows for manual adjustments, helping you find a better or more preferred path.
• Real-Time Traffic: Stay ahead of traffic with 2GIS’s live traffic map, which helps you avoid congestion. The app also provides traffic forecasts, giving you an idea of potential delays before you head out.

Detailed Search and Directory

• Find Specific Information: Use the search function to look up specific companies or locations, and get important details like working hours, entrance photos, website links, and user reviews. This makes it easy to find essential information about businesses around you.
• Search for Specific Items: If you're looking for something specific, such as a "coffee shop" or "parking lot," simply enter the term, and 2GIS will show you only relevant results. This makes your search process faster and more focused.
• Use Filters: Narrow down search results to meet your needs. For instance, you can filter by ratings (e.g., 3-5 stars) to ensure you're selecting highly-rated options. If you have the Pro version, you can also access advanced filtering tools, allowing you to analyze specific data layers, such as demographic information or market trends.

Specialized Features

• Track Recording: With the Track Recording feature, you can log your traveled route. This is useful if you want to remember the path you took or review trips you've made in the past. It’s a helpful tool for frequent travelers or anyone who needs to retrace their steps.
• CityLens (Driver): The CityLens feature is a valuable tool for drivers, offering advanced navigation support such as lane guidance, real-time traffic updates, and even parking spot suggestions. It helps you navigate through busy city streets with ease.
• 2GIS Pro: For advanced users, 2GIS Pro provides a range of powerful features, including the ability to analyze and create customized map layers. You can visualize data such as market demand, competitor locations, and other important business insights. It’s ideal for users who need in-depth data analysis and custom mapping.
• Changing Languages: If available in your region, you can easily change the app's language by selecting the option in the bottom right corner. This makes 2GIS accessible to a broader range of users, no matter their preferred language.

Urban Navigation Solutions (e.g., Dubai)

• Understand Road Naming: In the UAE, roads are classified based on their location. For instance, ‘E’ roads are major roads connecting different Emirates, while ‘D’ roads are local roads within Dubai. Even-numbered ‘D’ roads run parallel to the coast, and odd-numbered ones are perpendicular to the coast. Knowing this system can help you navigate more effectively.
• Use for Precise Directions: 2GIS is particularly effective in areas with complex road networks, such as Dubai. It provides precise directions, helping you navigate intricate city layouts and making it easier to find your way, even in areas with challenging road systems. This feature has been particularly praised by users in the UAE, where road networks can be difficult to follow.

With these tips, you can maximize your 2GIS experience and make the most of its features. Now, let’s explore the valuable benefits of using 2GIS.

Valuable Benefits of 2GIS

Offline Functionality: 

• One of 2GIS’s standout features is its ability to function without an internet connection. Users can download business directory mapping app and associated data, making it possible to navigate, search for businesses, and access directory information while offline. 
• This is especially useful in areas with limited or no internet connectivity, as it ensures you can always rely on the app for directions and local information without consuming mobile data.

Detailed Mapping: 

• 2GIS goes beyond basic maps by offering highly detailed 3D visuals. These maps include precise depictions of building entrances, allowing you to easily identify where to enter large buildings like malls, offices, or hotels. 
• Additionally, it provides indoor layouts for multi-story buildings, helping you navigate complex spaces like shopping centers or airports. The app also features 3D models of major infrastructure elements, such as bridges, tunnels, and landmarks, providing a realistic and thorough view of the urban environment.

Comprehensive Directory: 

• 2GIS is not just a navigation tool; it also serves as an extensive business directory. The app includes regularly updated information on millions of businesses and organizations, from contact details like phone numbers and email addresses to operating hours and services offered. 
• Whether you're looking for a specific store, restaurant, or a local service, 2GIS provides you with all the relevant information you need to make informed decisions.

Navigation & Transit: 

• The app offers precise and reliable navigation for all types of transportation. For drivers, it provides turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, and alternative routes to avoid congestion. 
• For public transit users, 2GIS delivers accurate schedules and routes for buses, metro systems, and trams, ensuring you can plan your journey efficiently. The integration of real-time traffic data also helps avoid delays, while the public transport navigation app keep you informed of the fastest and most convenient options.

Search Functionality: 

• 2GIS features a robust search engine that allows users to easily find what they need. You can search by category (such as restaurants, ATMs, or pharmacies), or directly by a specific company or business name. 
• The app also supports flexible search options, allowing you to look for businesses based on keywords, specialties, or even colloquial names, making it easy to discover new places or services even when you’re not sure of the exact name.

Top Alternatives of 2GIS

Google Maps

Google Maps is a widely-used navigation app for Dubai and UAE offering detailed maps, real-time traffic updates, and routing for driving, walking, biking, and public transport. It includes Street View for visualizing destinations, offline maps, and integration with Google services like Search and Assistant.

Waze

Waze app stands out for its community-driven approach, where users share real-time updates on traffic, road hazards, and police presence. It offers customizable routes, live traffic alerts, and social features for tracking friends’ trips.

HERE WeGo

HERE WeGo is a versatile app with offline functionality, providing GPS navigation for cars, public transport, and walking. It includes accurate public transport routes, speed limit alerts, and route customization based on transport preferences.

Yango Maps

Yango Maps is one of the top Dubai travel apps that combines navigation with ride-hailing services, offering real-time traffic updates and personalized recommendations. It’s especially strong in regions like Eastern Europe and the Middle East, making it convenient for users to book rides and get directions in one app.

Organic Maps

Organic Maps is an open-source app that prioritizes privacy and offline functionality. Built on OpenStreetMap data, it offers detailed maps and trail navigation, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and users who value privacy.

S'hail

S'hail is a Dubai-specific app that integrates metro, bus, taxi, and water taxi services. It provides real-time transport schedules, route planning, and taxi booking, making it a must-have for navigating Dubai's public transport system.

Step-by-Step Guide to Build An App Like 2GIS

1. Define Core Features

Start by defining the key features for your app, such as 3D city maps, business directories, multi-modal navigation (car, walking, public transport), offline functionality, and search features. Determine whether users will also need personalized accounts for saving favorite places or routes.

2. Market Research

Research to understand the needs of your target audience and analyze competitors like Google Maps, Waze, and HERE WeGo. Identify gaps in the market and features that could make your app stand out.

3. Choose Technology Stack

Select technologies for the app:

• Frontend: Use Flutter or React Native for cross-platform development (iOS and Android) or Swift and Kotlin for native development.

• Backend: Use Node.js or Python with PostgreSQL for map data storage and WebSocket/Firebase for real-time data.
  Mapping: Integrate OpenStreetMap or Mapbox for mapping and GraphHopper for routing.

4. Develop Map Functionality

Use tools like Mapbox for 3D maps and OpenLayers for indoor maps. Implement offline capabilities with local storage and allow users to download city maps for offline navigation.

5. Integrate Traffic and Navigation

Use Google Maps API or TomTom API for live traffic data and routing. Include features like turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic, and multi-modal routing (driving, walking, public transport).

6. Create the Business Directory

Develop a verified business directory with features like business names, addresses, contact info, reviews, and working hours. Use Elasticsearch for efficient search functionality by category, name, or specialty.

7. User Accounts and Personalization

Implement OAuth or Firebase Authentication for user logins. Allow users to save favorite places, routes, and business information. Integrate push notifications for real-time updates.

8. Scalability

Ensure your app can handle large amounts of data by using cloud services (AWS or Google Cloud), microservices architecture, and caching (Redis or Memcached) for high performance and scalability.

9. Testing

Test the app thoroughly using unit, integration, and performance tests to ensure smooth functionality, especially for map rendering, search, and traffic data integration.

10. Launch and Marketing

Prepare for launch by optimizing your app for the App Store and Google Play Store. Use digital marketing strategies like SEO, paid ads, and influencer promotions to attract users.

11. Maintenance and Updates

Post-launch, regularly update the app to fix bugs, add new features, and update maps. Respond to user feedback and enhance the app with additional tools, such as weather or ride-hailing integrations.

Tech Stack for Building an App Like 2GIS

Creating an app like 2GIS, with its mapping, business directories, real-time traffic updates, and offline navigation, requires a powerful and scalable tech stack. Here's a breakdown of the key technologies you'd use:

1. Frontend (Mobile & Web)

Mobile Development:

• React Native or Flutter: For cross-platform apps (iOS and Android).
• Swift: For native iOS apps.
• Kotlin: For native Android apps.

Web Development:

• React.js or Vue.js: For dynamic web apps.
• Leaflet.js or Mapbox GL JS: For integrating maps into web apps.

2. Backend (Server-Side)

Programming Languages:

• Node.js with Express.js: For scalable APIs.
• Python (Django or Flask): For rapid geospatial feature integration.
• Java or Go: For high-performance back-end systems.

Database:

• PostgreSQL with PostGIS: For handling geospatial data (maps, routes).
• MongoDB: For unstructured data like business listings or user profiles.

Real-Time Data:

• WebSockets or Firebase: For live traffic updates.
  Apache Kafka: For managing real-time data streams.

Search:

• Elasticsearch or Solr: For fast search and filtering.

3. Mapping & Navigation

Map Rendering:

• Mapbox or OpenStreetMap: For detailed maps and 3D views.
• Google Maps API: For extra geographical data and real-time features.

Routing & Navigation:

• GraphHopper or OSRM: For routing and turn-by-turn directions.
• TomTom Traffic API or Google Maps API: For real-time traffic data.

Offline Maps:

• SQLite or IndexedDB: For storing maps and user data locally.

4. Cloud & Hosting

Cloud Providers:

• AWS or Google Cloud: For hosting backend and managing real-time data.
• Microsoft Azure: For scalable cloud infrastructure.

File Storage:

• Amazon S3 or Google Cloud Storage: For storing large assets like maps and business data.

CDN:

• Cloudflare or AWS CloudFront: For fast delivery of maps and assets.

5. Geospatial Data Processing

Geospatial Tools:

• GDAL: For processing geographic data.
• PostGIS: For spatial queries and map-related calculations.

Indoor Mapping:

• IndoorAtlas or Mapwize: For indoor navigation (e.g., malls, airports).

6. User Authentication & Management

Authentication:

• OAuth: For secure authentication.
• Firebase Authentication: For simplified logins with social media integration.

User Data Management:

• Firebase Firestore or MongoDB: For storing user profiles and preferences.

7. Analytics & Monitoring

Analytics:

• Google Analytics or Mixpanel: For tracking user behavior and engagement.
• Amplitude: For advanced analytics and user retention.

Crash Monitoring:

• Sentry or Crashlytics: For real-time crash reporting and performance monitoring.

8. Push Notifications

Push Notifications:

• Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM): For real-time updates like traffic alerts.
• OneSignal or Pusher: For easy push notification integration.

9. Payment Integration (Optional)

Payment Gateways:

• Stripe or PayPal: For handling payments like subscriptions or business listings.

10. Testing & Deployment

Testing:

• JUnit or Mocha: For unit testing backend logic.
• Appium or Espresso: For mobile testing.
• Jest or Cypress: For frontend testing.

CI/CD:

• Jenkins or GitHub Actions: For automating builds and deployments.
• Docker: For containerizing the app.

11. Monitoring & Security

Monitoring:

• New Relic or Datadog: For app performance and server health.

Security:

• SSL/TLS Encryption: For secure communication.

Cost to Develop an App Like 2GIS

1. Basic Version (Entry-Level):

• Cost: $30,000 – $60,000
• Features: Basic maps, search, and navigation (without offline maps or real-time traffic).

2. Advanced Version (Mid-Range):

• Cost: $80,000 – $150,000+
• Features: Offline maps, detailed business listings, real-time traffic, multi-modal routing.

3. Enterprise Version (High-End):

• Cost: $200,000 – $400,000+
• Features: 3D maps, indoor navigation, multi-language support, advanced analytics.

Key Factors Influencing Costs

• Features & Complexity: Advanced features like offline maps, live traffic, and indoor navigation increase costs.
• Platform Choice: Developing separate iOS and Android apps is more expensive than cross-platform.
• Design & UI/UX: Custom design adds to the cost.
• Backend & APIs: Integrating third-party map and traffic data adds to the expenses.
• Testing & Maintenance: Ongoing testing, bug fixes, and hosting costs are part of the long-term investment.

DXB APPS: Leading App Developers in the UAE

DXB APPS stands out as one of the leading mobile app development company, known for creating high-quality, innovative, and user-friendly mobile applications. 

With a deep understanding of the region's market needs and user preferences, we as the best mobile app development company in UAE, specialize in crafting apps that are tailored to meet the unique demands of businesses across various industries. 

Whether it’s developing cutting-edge features for e-commerce, real estate, healthcare, or entertainment, DXB APPS is one of the best mobile app development agency in Dubai that combines the latest technology, seamless user experiences, and robust functionality to deliver exceptional mobile apps. 

The expert mobile application development Abu Dhabi team is committed to ensuring that each app not only looks great but also performs optimally, providing businesses 

with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive digital landscape. With a focus on security, scalability, and user engagement, DXB APPS continues to be the go-to partner for businesses looking to leverage mobile technology to enhance their services and customer experiences in the UAE.

Conclusion

2GIS is a powerful navigation app with features like detailed maps, offline access, real-time traffic, and business directories. It stands out with its ability to function offline and integrate 3D city views, real-time traffic updates, and advanced search capabilities. Whether you're driving, walking, or using public transport, 2GIS helps you navigate the city efficiently and confidently.

FAQs

Q. What makes 2GIS different from Google Maps?

2GIS offers offline functionality, 3D city maps, and a business directory, tailored for urban navigation.

Q. Is 2GIS free to use?

Yes, 2GIS is free, including maps, navigation, and business listings.

Q. How can I access 2GIS offline?

You can download city maps within the app for offline use.

Q. Does 2GIS offer real-time traffic updates?

Yes, it provides live traffic updates to help you avoid congestion and find the fastest routes.