Why Google Suspends Listings
Google has strict guidelines to ensure that businesses listed on Google Maps are legitimate and provide accurate information. A suspension can occur for many reasons, such as:
- Inaccurate NAP details (Name, Address, Phone)
- Listing a virtual office or P.O. box as your business address
- Overloading your business name with keywords
- Breaking Google’s content rules
- Creating multiple listings for the same business
- Unverified or outdated business details
Example: A restaurant in Dubai Marina lost its GMB visibility because it used multiple variations of its business name filled with keywords. Once corrected to the official registered name, the suspension was lifted.
Types of Google My Business Suspensions
Understanding the type of suspension helps in fixing it properly:
| Suspension Type | What It Means | Impact on Business |
| Soft Suspension | Listing is live, but the owner cannot manage it. Updates cannot be made. | Limited control, customers see outdated info |
| Hard Suspension | Listing is completely removed. | Customers cannot find you at all |
| Listing Disabled | Google believes it is fake or spam. Requires strong evidence to recover. | Severe damage, recovery is difficult and slow |
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix a Suspended GMB Listing in Dubai
1. Identify the Reason for Suspension
Check your email from Google or sign in to your Google Business Profile dashboard. Often, Google highlights the suspected issue. For example, if you are using a shared workspace address in Business Bay, that could trigger a suspension.
2. Review Google Guidelines
Read the official Google Business Profile Guidelines. Ensure your listing follows all rules regarding addresses, categories, and services.
3. Correct Your Business Information
- Use only your legal business name (avoid “plumber in Dubai cheap” style names).
- Provide a real Dubai office/shop location – not a virtual office.
- Ensure your phone number and website match across all platforms.
4. Collect Evidence of Your Business
Google may request documents to prove your legitimacy. Prepare:
- Trade license issued in Dubai
- Utility bills with your business address
- Photos of your store signage or office entrance
5. File a Reinstatement Request
Once corrections are made, submit a Google My Business Reinstatement Request Form. Explain your changes honestly and clearly.
6. Be Patient but Follow Up
Google often reviews requests within 3–7 business days. If delayed, you can follow up politely.
Case Study: Fixing a Suspension in Dubai
A digital marketing agency in JLT had its profile suspended because the listed address belonged to a co-working space. After updating the location to their registered office and uploading trade license documents, the business was reinstated in just 5 days.
This shows that providing transparent, verifiable information works best when dealing with suspensions.
Pro Tips to Avoid Future Suspensions
- Do not create multiple listings for one business.
- Keep your NAP details consistent across websites and local directories.
- Do not stuff your business name with extra keywords.
- Keep your profile fresh by adding posts, photos, and responding to reviews regularly.
- Make sure your business category matches your services (e.g., “Mobile Repair Shop in Dubai” instead of “Electronics”).
Why Fixing Suspensions Matters in Dubai
Dubai is a highly competitive market. Whether you run a restaurant downtown, a salon in Deira, or a real estate office in Dubai Marina, your GMB profile is a major factor in local SEO. Without it, you lose out on:
- Visibility in Google Maps searches
- Inclusion in the Local 3-Pack
- Customer reviews and trust signals
- Direct calls and directions
For many businesses, this visibility drives more conversions than their website. That is why resolving suspensions quickly is critical.
Why Choose Professional Help
Sometimes, even after fixing issues, Google still rejects reinstatement requests. This usually happens if your business model does not fully align with Google’s guidelines. That is where professional support comes in.
At Azizi Technologies, we help businesses in Dubai not only recover suspended GMB listings but also optimize them for better rankings. Our team understands Google’s policies and Dubai’s business landscape, making it easier to resolve these issues efficiently.
Final Thoughts:
Getting a Google My Business listing suspended can feel like a big setback, especially in Dubai’s competitive market. But with the right steps, checking guidelines, correcting business details, providing proof, and filing a reinstatement request, you can get back online and visible to your customers. The key is to stay transparent and follow Google’s rules closely.
If your GMB listing remains suspended despite your best efforts, do not let it affect your growth. With professional guidance, restoring your Google Business Profile becomes faster and stress-free. At Azizi Technologies, we specialize in fixing and optimizing GMB profiles for local businesses in Dubai.
Reach out today for assistance and get your business back on track.
