The UAE’s push for economic diversification and industrial growth has made In-Country Value (ICV) certification in the UAE a critical factor for businesses working with government entities and large semi-government groups. If you’re a supplier, manufacturer, or service provider looking to compete in tender processes or build strong public sector relationships, understanding the ICV certification is essential.
This guide covers everything you need to know about ICV certification in the UAE, including its purpose, benefits, eligibility, how to obtain it, compliance requirements, and strategic tips to increase your ICV score.
What Is ICV Certification in the UAE?
ICV (In-Country Value) certification is a government initiative introduced under the National ICV Program, launched by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and later adopted by several UAE government entities including Aldar, Etisalat, and the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT).
The ICV certificate measures how much of a company’s operations and spend contribute to the UAE economy. This includes factors like:
- Emiratization (hiring UAE nationals)
- UAE-based investments
- Procurement of local goods and services
- Manufacturing activities within the UAE
Why Is ICV Certification Important in the UAE?
ICV certification matters because it helps your business win tenders, especially with government and semi-government clients. It shows you’re contributing to the UAE economy by hiring locals, investing in assets, and buying from local suppliers. A strong ICV score gives you a competitive edge and supports long-term business growth.
Access to Government Contracts
Most government tenders in the UAE now prioritize companies with a strong ICV score. If you want to supply to ADNOC, Etihad Rail, Aldar, or MoIAT, having a valid ICV certificate is often mandatory.
Competitive Advantage
Businesses with higher ICV scores have a better chance of winning bids, especially under the weighted evaluation model that favors local economic contribution.
National Economic Development
The ICV program supports the UAE’s Vision 2030, which aims to increase GDP contribution from the non-oil sector. Your certification shows that you’re part of the country’s long-term growth strategy.
Builds Corporate Reputation
ICV compliance demonstrates corporate responsibility and commitment to the local market — a great message for investors, partners, and clients.
Who Needs ICV Certification in the UAE?
ICV certification is essential for suppliers, manufacturers, and service providers working with UAE government or semi-government entities. Whether you’re bidding for ADNOC projects or providing services to ministries, having an ICV certificate strengthens your eligibility, improves your chances in tenders, and shows your commitment to supporting the UAE economy.
Suppliers and Contractors
If your business provides products or services to government-owned or semi-government organizations in the UAE, you are required to submit an ICV certificate during the procurement process.
Manufacturers
UAE-based manufacturers are expected to show the percentage of their manufacturing activity and procurement that occurs locally.
Service Providers
Consultancies, engineering firms, IT service companies, logistics providers, and others must also undergo ICV evaluation.
Note: Even foreign-owned entities operating in the UAE must comply if they participate in relevant tenders.
Which Entities Recognize the ICV Program?
Initially launched by ADNOC, the program is now unified under the MoIAT National ICV Program, and is followed by:
- ADNOC Group
- Aldar Properties
- Etihad Rail
- Etisalat
- Emirates Steel Arkan
- Department of Economic Development (DED) Abu Dhabi
- MoIAT – Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology
These entities now require ICV certification from vendors and suppliers.
How Is the ICV Score Calculated?
The ICV score is a weighted calculation based on the company’s audited financial statements. The following factors are assessed:
Emiratization
- Number of Emirati nationals employed
- Salary amounts paid to UAE nationals
- National training programs
Investment in the UAE
- Assets owned in the UAE
- Investments in factories, offices, machinery, etc.
Procurement from UAE Vendors
- The total value of goods/services sourced from ICV-certified local vendors
Manufacturing Contribution
- For manufacturers, local production value is compared to total production
Exports Outside the UAE
- Export performance may also affect the score if it adds economic value
Each factor carries a specific weight depending on your business model and activity.
ICV Score Formula (Simplified)
ICV =
(Emiratization score × weight) +
(Local procurement score × weight) +
(Local investment × weight) +
(Manufacturing value added, if applicable)
Final score is expressed as a percentage – the higher the better.
Types of ICV Certificates in the UAE
There are three main types of ICV certificates in the UAE: a Company-Specific Certificate based on audited financials, a Group Certificate for businesses with multiple entities, and a Start-Up Certificate for new companies without financials. Each serves different needs but supports the same goal—enhancing your local economic contribution.
Company-Specific ICV Certificate
Issued based on a company’s audited financials for the previous fiscal year. Valid for 14 months from the issuance date.
Group ICV Certificate
If your organization includes multiple legal entities, a consolidated or group certificate can be issued.
Start-Up Certificate
For companies with less than 10 months of operation or without audited financials, a temporary ICV certificate may be granted with MoIAT approval.
How to Apply for ICV Certification in the UAE
To apply for ICV certification in the UAE, start by preparing your audited financial statements. Choose an approved certifying body, fill out the official ICV template, and submit all required documents. Once verified, you’ll receive your ICV certificate, valid for 14 months, to use in government and semi-government tenders.
Step 1: Prepare Audited Financial Statements
Your financials must be:
- Prepared according to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
- Audited by a licensed UAE audit firm
- Cover the latest financial year (not older than 2 years)
Step 2: Choose a Certified ICV Certifying Body
The MoIAT has approved several ICV certifying bodies authorized to issue ICV scores. You must engage with one of them for evaluation.
Popular certifiers include:
- KPMG
- Ernst & Young
- BDO
- Grant Thornton
Step 3: Submit ICV Template and Supporting Documents
You’ll be asked to fill out the ICV Submission Template, which includes:
- Employee breakdown
- Salary reports
- Procurement summaries
- Investment details
- Lease agreements or asset ownership documents
Step 4: Review and Audit by Certifier
Your ICV certifier will verify the template data against your audited financials, bank statements, payroll, and vendor invoices.
Step 5: Receive Your ICV Certificate
Once verified, you’ll receive an official ICV Certificate that’s valid for 14 months. You can now use this in tenders and procurement processes.
Cost of Getting an ICV Certificate
The cost varies depending on:
- Company size
- Business complexity
- Number of legal entities involved
- Type of certification (individual, group, start-up)
Average fee range: AED 5,000 to AED 15,000
Additional charges may apply for revisions or multi-entity evaluations.
How to Improve Your ICV Score
Want to stand out in government tenders? Here’s how to increase your ICV score:
Hire More Emirati Nationals
- Focus on Emiratization by employing UAE nationals
- Offer training and career development plans
Invest in Local Assets
- Buy or lease office space in the UAE
- Invest in infrastructure, equipment, or warehousing
Source from ICV-Certified Suppliers
- Work with ICV-certified local vendors
- Track local spend vs international procurement
Shift Production to the UAE
- If you manufacture overseas, consider relocating production
- Manufacture or assemble in the UAE to boost value added
Maintain Good Documentation
- Keep clean, organized financial records
- Make sure payroll, procurement, and leasing are transparent
The higher your ICV score, the stronger your tender performance.
When to Renew Your ICV Certificate
- Validity: 14 months from issuance
- Renew after your next financial audit
- Submit renewal request before expiry to avoid tender disqualification
Companies should track renewal dates closely and update their ICV compliance strategy annually.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in the ICV Process
Avoid submitting unaudited financials or outdated ICV certificates. Make sure your Emiratization data and supplier records are accurate and well-documented. Many businesses miss out by choosing uncertified evaluators or providing incomplete templates. Paying attention to detail and working with trusted experts can save you time, money, and disqualification risks.
Submitting Unaudited Financials
ICV relies on audited data only. Draft or management reports will be rejected.
Inaccurate Emirati Headcounts
All claims must be backed by salary slips, Emirates ID, and GOSI registrations.
Misreporting Local Procurement
You must provide supplier ICV certificates to validate your local spending.
Using Expired Certificates
Tenders require valid, current ICV certificates. Expired ones lead to disqualification.
Not Hiring an Authorized Certifier
Only MoIAT-approved certifiers can issue valid ICV certificates.
Industries That Require ICV Certification Most
- Oil & Gas
- Construction
- Engineering & Procurement (EPC)
- IT & Technology
- Logistics & Transport
- Facilities Management
- Healthcare Supply & Medical Equipment
- Manufacturing
Even small subcontractors in these sectors are expected to maintain ICV certification.
Benefits of ICV Certification for Your Business
ICV certification gives your business a clear edge in the UAE market. It helps you qualify for high-value government contracts, improves your position in tenders, and builds trust with clients. It also shows your commitment to supporting the local economy, which strengthens your brand and long-term business opportunities.
Access to High-Value Projects
ICV-certified companies can work with major UAE entities and access multi-million-dirham projects.
Enhanced Tender Ranking
Even if you’re not the lowest bidder, a high ICV score can help you win tenders based on value contribution.
Brand Image Boost
Demonstrates that your company supports UAE economic development and sustainability goals.
Strategic Local Partnerships
Encourages businesses to form UAE-based alliances, creating long-term opportunities.
Conclusion
Understanding and complying with the ICV certification in the UAE is now essential for companies that want to compete in government-driven sectors. From improving your local hiring to investing in UAE assets and sourcing from certified vendors, every aspect of your operations contributes to your ICV score.
If you’re planning to work with UAE public or semi-government bodies, partnering with expert Business Setup Consultants in Dubai, UAE can help you prepare financial audits, complete the ICV submission, and boost your score through smart structuring. It’s not just about certification — it’s about building a future-proof business in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is ICV certification mandatory in the UAE?
Yes, for companies bidding on tenders from ADNOC, MoIAT, and other participating entities. Without it, you may be ineligible to participate.
How long is the ICV certificate valid?
14 months from the date of issuance, based on your latest audited financial year.
Can startups get an ICV certificate in the UAE?
Yes. Startups without audited financials can apply for a provisional certificate, but must regularize within 10 months.
What if my ICV score is low?
You can still bid, but higher-scoring competitors may receive preference in evaluations. You can improve your score by adjusting operations.
Do I need separate ICV certificates for each legal entity?
Yes, unless you apply for a Group ICV Certificate under shared ownership and structure with auditor approval.
