Dubai is turning its food lovers into digital ambassadors as part of a new initiative to spotlight the city’s homegrown restaurants and cafes.

Launched by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in partnership with Google, the Map Your Dubai: Insider Edition campaign invites residents and visitors to discover, support and vote for some of Dubai’s best hidden culinary gems through Google Maps.

The initiative forms part of the broader From Dubai, For Dubai movement, which aims to celebrate local businesses and strengthen community-driven economic growth across the emirate.

At the heart of the campaign are Google’s Local Guides, a global community of volunteers who contribute reviews, photos and recommendations on Google Maps. For the project, selected Local Guides have curated 11 themed lists featuring their favourite restaurants, cafés and lesser-known dining destinations across Dubai.

Food lovers can explore the lists through the official campaign website and visit the featured venues directly via Google Maps. Public voting opens on June 22 and runs until July 6, with winning Local Guides to be recognised across official campaign channels.

Anthony Nakache, Managing Director of Google MENA, said the campaign aims to transform local knowledge into a community movement that helps small businesses reach new audiences and grow through digital discovery.

Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, CEO of Dubai SME, said the initiative builds on Dubai’s long-standing tradition of community storytelling and public participation.

He added that collaborations between government entities, technology platforms and residents can help convert online discovery into tangible economic benefits for local businesses while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global gastronomy destination.

The campaign is expected to increase visibility for homegrown food concepts, encourage residents to explore new neighbourhood dining spots, and support the growth of Dubai’s thriving food and beverage sector.

How to join the Map Your Dubai campaign

• Explore 11 curated restaurant and café lists on the campaign website
• Visit featured venues through Google Maps
• Vote for your favourite food guide from June 22 to July 6
• Help support local restaurants and homegrown brands
• Discover hidden gems across Dubai’s diverse neighbourhoods