How to Get an ICV Certificate in the UAE
In the UAE’s competitive business landscape, maximizing local economic impact is essential for securing valuable contracts and driving sustainable growth. The In-Country Value (ICV) Certification plays a pivotal role in this by encouraging businesses to enhance their local procurement, invest in Emirati talent, and contribute to the local content of the national economy.
This guide breaks down the three key phases of the ICV certification process, explains its strategic benefits, and provides a step-by-step approach to help your business optimize local spending and achieve certification efficiently.
The In-Country Value (ICV) Certification is a government-driven program designed to increase local economic contribution by evaluating companies based on their procurement of local goods, employment of UAE nationals, and capital investments.
Initially introduced by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) in 2018, the program has now expanded under the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), making it a mandatory requirement for businesses dealing with UAE government entities and major corporations.
Before applying for the ICV Certificate, businesses must ensure they fulfil the following prerequisites:
Audited Financial Statements
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Companies must submit their latest audited financial statements, prepared according to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
Businesses less than 10 months old can submit management accounts as an alternative.
Nafis Registration
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Companies employing UAE nationals must be registered with Nafis, the Emiratization initiative supporting local workforce development.
📢 Update
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Effective 1 January 2025, all ICV certificates for financial years ending after 31 December 2024 must be backed by stand-alone audited financial statements specific to the entity being certified. Bifurcated management accounts based on consolidated financial statements will no longer be accepted for ICV certification.
Once the prerequisites are met, the application moves to the assessment phase, where your ICV score is calculated based on specific parameters.
ICV Score Components:
The ICV score is determined using the following key factors:
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Procurement of Local Goods & Services – Percentage of business spending directed towards UAE-based suppliers.
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UAE National Employment (Emiratization) – Proportion of UAE nationals in the workforce.
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Investment in Local Assets – Capital expenditures on UAE-based infrastructure and operations.
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Revenue Generated within the UAE – Income earned from operations inside the country.
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Expenditure on Training UAE Nationals – Investment in upskilling Emirati employees.
Required Documents for Assessment:
To ensure accuracy and compliance, businesses must provide a set of supporting documents, including:
📌 Audited Financial Statements (Latest)
📌 ICV Template (filled as per MoIAT guidelines)
📌 Procurement & Supplier Records
📌 Workforce & Emiratization Details
📌 Investment & Asset Purchase Records
During this phase, Assist Plus’ ICV specialists will review your application, ensuring that all data is accurately recorded as per MoIAT’s Agreed-Upon Procedures (AUPs).
After completing the assessment, the final ICV score is determined. If all requirements are met, the company will receive an official ICV Certificate, which remains valid for 14 months from the issuance date. Having a valid ICV Certificate allows businesses to
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Bid for government contracts and secure preferential consideration in tenders.
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Strengthen their market position by showcasing compliance with UAE’s economic vision.
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Demonstrate transparency in their financial and operational practices.
ICV Certification is not just a regulatory requirement—it is a strategic advantage that enhances business growth and credibility in the UAE market.
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Access to Government & ADNOC Contracts – Many government entities and major UAE corporations mandate ICV certification for suppliers.
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Competitive Advantage – Companies with ICV certification are preferred for partnerships and business opportunities in the UAE.
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Enhanced Corporate Reputation – Having an ICV Certificate strengthens your company’s credibility and commitment to economic sustainability.
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Better Tender Evaluations – Organizations with higher ICV scores receive priority in government tenders.
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Support for UAE’s Economic Vision – Businesses contribute to national growth by prioritizing local procurement and employment.
As an authorized ICV certifying body accredited by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), Assist Plus provides expert guidance to ensure a smooth and efficient certification process.
Our Expertise Includes:
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Accurate ICV Score Calculation – We assess and optimize your ICV score for maximum benefits.
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Seamless Documentation Support – Our team ensures that your application meets MoIAT’s latest guidelines.
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Industry-Specific Solutions – We tailor our certification approach based on your business sector.
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Fast & Reliable Service – Get your ICV Certificate within days of document submission