When someone in Doha searches "salon near me" or "car AC repair", Google shows a map with three businesses at the top. Those three get most of the calls. The good news: getting your business on Google Maps is free. You just need a properly set up Google Business Profile.
Step 1: Check if your business is already there
Search for your business name on Google Maps. Sometimes a customer or Google itself has already added it. If you find it, choose "Claim this business" instead of creating a new one. Duplicate listings confuse Google and customers.
Step 2: Create or claim your profile
Go to Google Business Profile with the Google account you want to use for your business (ideally a business email, not a personal one). Add your business name exactly as it appears on your shop sign or trade licence. Don't add extra keywords to the name, as Google can suspend profiles for that.
Step 3: Choose the right category
Your main category is one of the most important settings. Choose the one that best describes what you do, for example "Beauty salon", "Car repair and maintenance" or "Dental clinic". You can add a few extra categories for other services.
Step 4: Add your location and service area
Place the pin exactly on your shop or office. In Qatar, many addresses are found by zone, street and building number, so add those details and a clear landmark. If you visit customers instead of having a shop, set a service area and hide your address.
Step 5: Verify your business
Google needs to confirm your business is real. Depending on your business, it may ask for a short video of your premises, a phone or email code, or another method. Follow the steps shown in your account. Until you are verified, your profile may not show to customers.
Step 6: Complete every section
- Phone and WhatsApp number that someone actually answers
- Opening hours, including special hours for Ramadan and public holidays
- Website link
- Services or products with short descriptions
- Photos: outside the shop (so people can find it), inside, your team and your work
Complete profiles get more views. Real photos work much better than stock images.
Step 7: Start collecting reviews
Reviews are one of the biggest reasons a business shows up higher on the map. Ask happy customers to leave a review, and make it easy: share your review link on WhatsApp or print a QR code at the counter. Reply to every review, good or bad, politely and quickly.
Step 8: Keep it active
Add new photos, offers and updates every few weeks. An active profile tells Google and customers that your business is open and cares.
Need help?
Setting up a profile takes an afternoon, but getting it right makes a big difference for months. If you'd like us to set it up or check your existing profile, ask for a free online check-up on WhatsApp.
