Google, in partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, has announced the launch of “Dubai on Your Map: Your Guide from Locals”, a new initiative aimed at supporting the food and restaurant sector across Dubai by highlighting local restaurants and cafes recommended by Local Guides on Google Maps.
The initiative is built around the participation of the Local Guides community, a group of volunteers who contribute reviews, photos, and ratings on Google Maps. Through the initiative, these contributors will create lists of their favorite food destinations in Dubai. Once the lists are published, the public will be invited to vote for the ones they like most, helping drive more attention to these venues and supporting the growth of local businesses.
“Dubai on Your Map” comes as part of the “From Dubai, For Dubai” campaign, launched by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism to support the people, businesses, and ideas that shape everyday life in the city. The campaign encourages residents, visitors, and content creators to discover and support local projects, while also sharing the inspiring stories behind the places and brands they love.
Through this initiative, Local Guides in Dubai will be able to create customized and categorized lists directly on Google Maps, putting a spotlight on distinctive dining experiences across the city. These lists can help users discover restaurants and cafes that may not be widely known, yet offer experiences worth visiting.
Local Guides play an important role in the Google Maps experience by sharing practical information about places, including reviews, photos, and answers. Their contributions help millions of users around the world make better decisions when searching for restaurants, cafes, and other destinations.
Starting June 9, 2026, the public can explore 11 curated lists created by Local Guides through the official campaign portal, view them, and visit the featured places directly through their Google Maps accounts. Voting will open on June 22, 2026, and will continue until July 6, 2026, allowing people to choose their favorite dining lists.
The winning Local Guides will be celebrated through official social media channels, in a step that highlights the role of the community in supporting local restaurants and cafes, while also showcasing the diversity of Dubai’s food scene.
