Privacy Policy
Last updated: July 2026
Mandawi ("we", "us") operates mandawi.com, a directory of Afghan-owned businesses, restaurants, freelancers, NGOs, artists, and events for the global Afghan diaspora. This policy explains what information we collect when you use the site, how we use it, and the choices you have.
Information We Collect
Browsing the directory does not require an account, and we do not collect personal information just for viewing listings. If you submit a business or listing through our "Add Your Business" form, we collect the details you provide: business name, category, description, address, city, country, and any contact details you choose to include such as phone number, website, or email address. If you search the directory, your search text is used locally to filter listings and may also be sent to OpenStreetMap's Nominatim service to look up matching cities or countries (see "Third-Party Services" below).
Cookies and Similar Technologies
We use a small amount of browser storage (localStorage) to remember your cookie choice so we don't ask again on every visit. This is not shared with anyone. If you choose "Accept all," Google Analytics sets cookies to distinguish visitors and measure usage. If you choose "Necessary only" or close the banner without choosing, these cookies stay off and no analytics data is recorded.
Third-Party Services
Mandawi relies on a few third-party services to work: • Google Analytics - aggregated usage statistics (pages viewed, general location, device type), only if you choose "Accept all" on the cookie banner. • OpenStreetMap map tiles - loading the interactive map fetches tiles from OpenStreetMap's servers, which may log your IP address under their own privacy policy. • OpenStreetMap Nominatim - when you search for a city or country, your search text and IP address are sent to the public Nominatim API to resolve the location. We don't control these third parties' own data practices; please refer to their respective privacy policies for details.
Analytics
When enabled, Google Analytics helps us understand which pages and categories are popular so we can improve the directory. Analytics is off by default and only turns on if you choose "Accept all" on the cookie banner - you can change your mind at any time (see "Your Choices" below).
Your Choices
You can choose "Necessary only" or "Accept all" at any time using the cookie banner, or reopen your preference here:
Data Retention
Listing submissions are kept as long as needed to review and, if approved, publish them in the directory. Analytics data (when enabled) is retained according to Google's standard retention settings.
Children's Privacy
Mandawi is intended for a general business-directory audience and is not directed at children. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this policy from time to time to reflect changes to the site or applicable law. We'll update the "Last updated" date above when we do.
Contact Us
Questions about this policy or your data? Email us at info@mandawi.com.