Objectives of the ICV Program in UAE
The National In-Country Value (ICV) Program is a comprehensive policy tool designed to reshape government procurement, strengthen local industries, promote ... Read more
Obtain Your ICV Certificate in the UAE—Without the Hassle
We help companies of all sizes prepare, apply, and secure their ICV certificate so that they can focus on securing contracts and growing their business.
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Introduction
Conducting business in the United Arab Emirates today requires strict adherence to evolving regulations, among which the In-Country Value (ICV) Certificate holds particular significance. Originally introduced by ADNOC and now adopted by various government entities, the ICV program evaluates the extent to which a company’s expenditures and activities contribute to the UAE economy. Factors such as the employment of Emirati nationals, procurement from local suppliers, and domestic investments are key components in determining the overall score.
At ICV Certificates UAE, we recognize that the certification process can seem complex, hence, we collaborate with ADNOC-approved auditors to provide clear, step-by-step guidance.
Whether your business is a small trading enterprise or a large corporation, we ensure that your documentation is accurate, your application is properly prepared, and your certificate is issued without delay.
Securing an ICV certificate extends beyond regulatory compliance; it can be decisive in the outcome of tender opportunities. A strong ICV score enhances competitiveness, instills confidence in potential partners, and demonstrates a genuine commitment to supporting the UAE’s long-term economic development.
What is the ICV Certification Program in the UAE?
The In-Country Value (ICV) Certification Program was introduced in the UAE to align companies with the economic diversification goals of the country. Initially launched by ADNOC, the initiative has been adopted by multiple government entities and is now a considered critical part of conducting business in the UAE. The ICV program measure how much companies contributes to the UAE economy.
Businesses contributions are calculated based on key factors such as:
- The proportion of goods and services purchased from within the UAE
- Employment of UAE nationals
- Investments in local infrastructure and assets
- Spending on training, research, and development
The outcome of this assessment is reflected in an official ICV certificate, which assigns your business an ICV score. The higher your score, the stronger your chances of gaining contracts with ADNOC, government bodies, and their suppliers.
Why Was the ICV Certification Program Introduced?
The ICV program encourages businesses to contribute to the long-term growth of the country UAE.
ICV certification in the UAE aims to achieve the following:
- Increase local procurement: By preferring UAE-based suppliers, companies help in the growth of domestic industries.
- Create more jobs for UAE nationals: Localization of jobs is at the center of the UAE’s development strategy.
- Promote innovation: Investment in training and R&D build a stronger, more competitive, healthy economy.
- Support SMEs: Local small and medium-sized businesses enjoy a higher percentage of contracts.
With connecting business opportunities to ICV scores, the UAE ensures that not only businesses successfully earn profits, but also contribute positively to the overall economy.
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Who Needs an ICV Certificate in the UAE?
Some of the most common questions businesses ask are: Does my company actually need an ICV certificate? The answer depends on your operations and your future business goals. If your company has the intention to cooperate with ADNOC, government owned entities, or a part of their value chains, you will need an official ICV certificate in the UAE.
The certificate is not limited to large corporations, ICV providers issue certificates to businesses of all sizes and across industries, provided they possess audited financial statements and meet the program’s requirements.
Businesses That Commonly Require ICV Certification
1. Manufacturing Companies
If you are manufacture goods in the UAE, whether it is industrial products, construction materials, or consumer goods, your business directly feeds into the local economy. ICV certification highlights your contribution through local sourcing and production facility investments.
2. Trading Companies
Import and export traders typically have to demonstrate the amount of value-add or procurement of theirs that remains within the UAE. Being able to show they have an ICV certificate boosts credibility and is consistent with larger companies that prefer certified suppliers.
3. Service Providers
Consultancy firms, IT companies, logistics companies, and other service companies also require ICV certification. While they do not produce physical products, their employment of UAE nationals, office functioning, and local spending are all covered in the score.
4. Contractors and Subcontractors
Companies in construction, oil and gas, or related supply chain are heavily impacted by the ICV program. The majority of tenders require the contractor and the subcontractor hold valid ICV certificates in order to be eligible.
5. SMEs and Startups
Small and medium-sized enterprises aren’t exempt. On the contrary, SMEs are favored by ICV certification as they become competitive for large corporations seeking partners with high ICV values.
What Do ICV Providers Check Before Issuing a Certificate?
To issue an ICV certificate UAE, approved auditors take into account:
- Audited financial statements prepared in terms of IFRS rules.
- Verification of local purchases and procurements.
- Payroll details showing the employment of Emirati nationals.
- Capital investment within the UAE, such as land acquisition, machines, or infrastructure.
- Training, R&D, and social contribution-related expenses incurred.
The above details review ensures that every certificate is a true representation of your company’s local economic contribution.
How to Get an ICV Certificate in UAE?
To seamlessly obtain ICV certification in UAE in compliance with the relevant requirements and regulations, it is advisable to seek the expert services of ADNOC-Approved ICV Auditors in UAE. Below is a step-by-step overview of how to obtain an ICV certificate in UAE:
Prepare Your Financial Statements
The foundation of ICV application are latest audited financial statements. They must be prepared in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and audited by a UAE regulated audit firm.
Collect Supporting Information
In addition to financials, companies are required to give details such as Emiratization numbers (local nationals employed), procurement information (to show local sourcing), and investment information. Together with these, they demonstrate your contribution to the UAE economy.
Engage an ADNOC-Approved ICV Auditor
Not all auditors can issue an ICV Certificate. Only ADNOC-approved auditors can check your financials and determine your score. Working with such an auditor means your certificate will be accepted by ADNOC and other government agencies.
Submit Your Application and Review
After the auditor verifies your data and calculates your ICV score, your application is sent for assessment. If everything goes fine, you’ll be issued your official certificate. If clarifications are required, the auditor will help you resolve them at an early stage.
Receive and Use Your Certificate
Once approved, your ICV Certificate is issued and will be valid for 14 months from the date of your audited accounts. You can then apply the certificate in bidding for ADNOC and government tenders, giving you a strong competitive edge.
To get a better picture of the process, here is a simple flowchart describing how businesses typically move from preparation to certification.
To seamlessly obtain ICV certification in UAE in compliance with the relevant requirements and regulations, it is advisable to seek the expert services of ADNOC-Approved ICV Auditors in UAE. Contact us today, and we shall be glad to assist you.
ADNOC Approved ICV Auditors in UAE
To ensure fairness and integrity, ADNOC has implemented a system designed to maintain consistency in the issuance of certificates. Within this framework, ADNOC-approved auditors play a pivotal role.
By engaging an ADNOC-approved auditor, companies benefit from the following:
- Enhanced credibility in tenders and contracts: Certificates issued by ADNOC-approved auditors are the only ones recognized and accepted when bidding for ADNOC and other government-related projects.
- Assurance of accuracy: Approved auditors are thoroughly trained in the proper application of ICV guidelines, thereby minimizing errors and preventing delays in the certification process.
What Do ADNOC-Approved Auditors Do?
Auditor’s roles in UAE include:
- Reviewing your audited financial statements to check whether they are of the quality required under the ICV scheme.
- Verifying supporting documentation, which includes Emiratization records, contracts with suppliers, and investment details.
- Calculating your ICV score based on the official formula of ADNOC.
- Issuing the ICV certificate after checking and confirming compliance with all of the above.
- Advising on future improvements to further align your business with the UAE’s economic diversification goals.
In a way, ADNOC-approved auditors are both regulators and advisors, imposing compliance while also enabling business opportunities.
Best ICV Consultants in UAE
Selecting the right partner for your ICV certification in the UAE can significantly influence how efficiently your company achieves ADNOC’s In-Country Value (ICV) compliance. At ICVcertificates.com, we combine extensive experience, precision, and a customer-centric approach to ensure you obtain your certification swiftly.
Our team of ICV-accredited professionals meticulously prepares each report in accordance with the latest ADNOC standards, helping to enhance your overall ICV score. Beyond document handling, we provide full guidance throughout the process, simplifying complex requirements and ensuring seamless compliance at every stage.
With decades of proven success across multiple industries, we have earned the trust of UAE businesses that prioritize transparency, efficiency, and quality.
Partner with us for reliable assistance, smooth coordination with certifying bodies, and a steadfast commitment to keeping your company compliant, competitive, and positioned for sustainable growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ICV certificate in the UAE?
An ICV certificate UAE is an official document showing the amount of value your company is adding to the UAE economy. It’s part of the In-Country Value (ICV) program initiated by ADNOC and adopted by other government institutions. The certificate measures contributions like local procurement, Emirati employment, and UAE investments.
Why is an ICV certificate significant for my business?
In the absence of a genuine ICV certificate, companies are likely to be excluded from bidding on ADNOC or government contracts. When you get certified, not only do you become eligible, but you also have a higher likelihood of winning contracts.
Who needs to apply for an ICV certificate in the UAE?
The certification is required by manufacturers, traders, service companies, contractors, subcontractors, and even SMEs if they want to do business with ADNIC, government institutions, or their respective supply chains. In short, if you wish to attain access to large government-related projects, you will be needing certification.
How much time does it take to obtain ICV certification?
It usually takes 2–3 weeks to receive your certificate, depending upon how fast you submit the supporting documents and upon the preparedness of your audited financial statements. Professional advisors can get this done faster by keeping all documents in order the first time.
What are the documents you will need to apply for an ICV certificate?
The following documents are required:
- Audited financial statements (prepared under IFRS)
- Valid UAE trade license
- Local suppliers and purchase information
- Emirati personnel payroll records
- Evidence of investment in UAE real estate or training programs
Can foreign-owned establishments apply for an ICV certificate?
Yes. As long as they are UAE-licensed and have audited accounts, foreign-owned establishments are qualified. This allows international companies with a presence in the UAE to compete in tenders on an equal level with locally established establishments.
How long is an ICV certificate valid for?
ICV certificates expire after 14 months from the date of your audited accounts. This requires companies to renew them every year to remain eligible for tenders and contracts.
What if my company has a poor ICV score?
You may still bid on tenders, but better-scoring companies are more likely to have the advantage. The silver lining is that you can improve your score by raising local purchases, hiring more Emiratis, or expanding UAE operations in the long run.
Who issues ICV certificates in the UAE?
Only ADNOC-approved ICV auditors have the authority to give the certificate. They review your financial statements, calculate your ICV score, and verify compliance with the program regulations. Your certificate will not be accepted in tenders without an approved auditor.
Can small and medium enterprises (SMEs) benefit from ICV certification?
In fact, ICV is not the preserve of large organizations. SMEs stand to gain a great deal from certification. It makes them more reputable, enhances their opportunities of securing contracts, and becomes a more attractive choice for large businesses seeking certified suppliers.
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