Everything you need to know about ICV Certification in the UAE

Everything you need to know about ICV Certification in the UAE

A Complete Guide by ALWAHAT Accounts and Internal Audit Services

In today’s competitive UAE business environment, aligning with national priorities isn’t just good ethics—it’s smart business. One of the most strategic steps your company can take is securing an ICV (In-Country Value) certificate, especially if you aim to participate in government or semi-government contracts.

At ALWAHAT Accounts and Internal Audit Services, we empower businesses across Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi to navigate the complexities of the ICV certification process with clarity, compliance, and confidence.

What is ICV Certification?

The In-Country Value (ICV) program is a UAE government initiative launched by ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company) and now widely adopted by other public sector entities like:

• Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED)

• Abu Dhabi Ports

• Aldar Properties

• Mubadala

• Etisalat

The purpose of the ICV program is to boost the UAE’s economic contribution by evaluating how much value a company brings to the local economy through:

• Local goods and services procurement

• Employment and training of UAE nationals

• Capital investments in the UAE

• Revenue generated locally

• Export of goods and services

Your ICV score determines how well your company aligns with these goals—and directly impacts your eligibility for tender awards and supplier opportunities.

Key Objectives of the ICV Program

The ICV program supports UAE Vision 2030 by focusing on:

• Economic diversification

• Encouraging local manufacturing and supply chains

• Creating jobs for UAE nationals

• Strengthening local supplier ecosystems

• Increasing knowledge transfer and innovation

For businesses, this is both an opportunity and a responsibility—to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future while securing competitive advantages.

Who Needs an ICV Certificate?

ICV certification is mandatory for companies who wish to:

• Supply goods or services to ADNOC and its group of companies

• Participate in tenders with entities under the National ICV Program

• Be listed as a qualified vendor or subcontractor for ICV-compliant buyers

Whether you are a manufacturer, service provider, trading company, or subcontractor, obtaining an ICV certificate strengthens your market positioning and enhances your chances of winning high-value contracts.

What Does the ICV Score Measure?

The ICV score is calculated based on your company’s audited financial statements from the most recent fiscal year and evaluates multiple criteria:

🔹 Goods & Services Procured Locally
Percentage of your procurement spending directed to UAE-registered suppliers.

🔹 Emiratization
Hiring and training of UAE nationals, particularly in skilled roles.

🔹 Investment in the UAE
Tangible capital investments, including buildings, machinery, and technology deployed in the UAE.

🔹 Exports
Contribution to the UAE economy through goods or services sold internationally.

🔹 Local Revenue Generation
Income derived from UAE-based operations.

Each component is assigned a weightage to arrive at your total ICV score, which is valid for 14 months from the date of issue.

Steps to Obtain ICV Certification

At ALWAHAT Accounts and Internal Audit Services, we provide end-to-end support through every stage of your ICV certification journey:

1. Pre-Assessment Consultation

We start by reviewing your business structure, financials, and operations to assess your ICV-readiness and identify improvement areas.

2. Audit of Financial Statements

ICV requires audited financials that comply with UAE accounting standards. Our experienced auditors ensure your statements are accurate and ICV-compliant.

3. ICV Template Preparation

We help you fill out the official ICV template, ensuring accurate categorization of revenue, cost of goods sold, payroll data, capital expenditure, etc.

4. Coordination with Certifying Bodies

We liaise with ICV-approved certifying bodies, respond to queries, and manage submissions on your behalf—saving you time and avoiding costly errors.

5. Post-Certification Advisory

Once certified, we help you create a roadmap to improve your ICV score year on year. This includes strategic decisions like sourcing locally, hiring UAE nationals, or investing in local facilities.

Why Choose ALWAHAT for ICV Certification?

✅ Deep Expertise in UAE Compliance
From VAT and Corporate Tax to Audit and Accounting, we bring multi-dimensional expertise to ICV advisory.

✅ Approved Audit and Accounting Support
We prepare financials that meet both regulatory standards and ICV expectations.

✅ Client-Centric Approach
We don’t just file your documents—we explain the numbers, guide you, and stay with you until your goals are achieved.

✅ Local Knowledge, National Reach
Serving companies across Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Emirates with timely, accurate, and practical support.

Common Challenges We Help You Overcome

• Lack of ICV template knowledge

• Incorrect cost/revenue classifications

• Low Emiratization ratios

• Delays due to audit or documentation issues

• Difficulty improving ICV score for future bids

With ALWAHAT, you're never alone. We simplify the process, identify gaps, and turn compliance into a competitive advantage.

Final Thoughts

The ICV program is not just a compliance requirement—it’s a business strategy. Companies that invest early in ICV preparation and enhancement are better positioned to win government tenders, expand their UAE footprint, and build trust with local and global stakeholders.

Let ALWAHAT be your trusted advisor in this journey. Together, we can turn ICV into a catalyst for growth, credibility, and sustainability.

Ready to Get ICV Certified?

📞 Call us: +971 50 132 7005
📧 Email: info@alwahataudit.com
🌐 Visit: www.alwahataudit.com

ALWAHAT Accounts and Internal Audit Services – Your Partner in Compliance and Growth.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. ICV certification criteria and procedures may be updated by UAE authorities from time to time. For personalized assistance or the most current updates, please consult a certified ICV advisor or contact ALWAHAT Accounts and Internal Audit Services directly.