If you’re a business owner trying to promote your products or services online, you’ve probably asked yourself this question:
“Should I invest in Google Ads or Meta (Facebook & Instagram) Ads?”
It’s a great question—and the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all.
As a performance marketer, I’ve worked on both platforms for different types of businesses. Each has its strengths. Let’s break it down in the most practical, non-jargon way possible.
🔍 What are Google Ads?
Google Ads show your business to people actively searching for something related to your product or service.
- Example: Someone types “best home cleaning service in Dubai” into Google.
- If you’re running a Google Search Ad, your website could show up right at the top.
🟢 Best for:
- Capturing high-intent leads
- Local services (like salons, clinics, consultants)
- E-commerce with Google Shopping
- People ready to take action
📱 What are Meta Ads? (Facebook & Instagram)
Meta Ads help you reach people based on interests, behaviors, and demographics—even if they’re not searching right now.
- Example: You’re scrolling Instagram and see a beautiful fragrance ad—one you didn’t ask for, but now you want it. That’s Meta doing its job.
🟢 Best for:
- Brand awareness
- Building interest and demand
- Visual products (like fashion, beauty, home decor)
- Retargeting warm audiences
💡 Main differences (Explained simply)
| Feature | Google Ads | Meta Ads |
| Intent | High (users are searching) | Passive (users are scrolling) |
| Ad Format | Text, shopping, video (YouTube) | Image, video, carousel |
| Targeting | Based on search terms | Based on user interests and behavior |
| Cost | Often higher CPC (Cost per Click) | Often lower CPC, but broader targeting |
| Ideal For | Quick conversions, local search | Building awareness, social proof |
🤔 So, which one should you choose?
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
✔️ Go with Google Ads if…
- You want to show up when people are already searching.
- You offer services people urgently need (e.g., repair, healthcare, courses).
- You’re targeting high-intent keywords.
✔️ Go with Meta Ads if…
- You want to build awareness and attract new interest.
- Your product is visual, emotional, or trend-based.
- You want to retarget people who’ve visited your site but didn’t buy.
🔄 Best strategy? Use both, smartly
The best results often come from combining both platforms:
- Use Meta Ads to create interest and drive traffic.
- Use Google Ads to capture those who are searching after seeing you.
- Retarget both sets of users with specific offers or content.
👩🏻💻 My final thoughts as a marketer
Digital advertising isn’t just about choosing one platform—it’s about knowing your audience and your goal. When done right, Google and Meta Ads can work hand in hand to help you get more leads, more sales, and more growth.
If you’re not sure which to choose for your business—or how to run them profitably—I’d be happy to help.
Let’s create a strategy that makes every dirham you spend worth it. 💡