The UAE implemented the In-Country Value (ICV) program in 2018 to strengthen the local economy by encouraging businesses to invest in local resources, workforce, and industries. This program was introduced to promote economic diversification and reduce dependence on imports by prioritizing local suppliers and services.

The ICV score is a key metric used to test how much a company contributes to the UAE’s economy, making it an important factor for businesses seeking government contracts and partnerships with major corporations.

A higher ICV rating increases business opportunities, increases credibility, and boosts competitiveness in the UAE market. Companies that improve their ICV score can gain long-term benefits, including priority in government tenders and better positioning in the local business landscape.

Here are the tips below to improve ICV score in UAE:

1. Increase Local Procurement

One of the best ways to improve your ICV score is by purchasing more goods and services from UAE-based suppliers. The ICV program gives higher scores to businesses that contribute to the local economy through sourcing and spending within the country.

Reviewing your supply chain and shifting to local procurement where possible can make a big difference. Building long-term relationships with UAE suppliers also helps create stability while raising your company’s ICV rating.

2. Invest in Employee Development

Providing training and development programs for employees can positively impact your ICV score. The UAE encourages businesses to invest in workforce upskilling, confirming employees gain better expertise and contribute more effectively to the economy.

• Offer professional training programs to enhance employee skills.
• Support higher education and certification courses for staff.
• Conduct workshops to improve technical and managerial capabilities.
• Develop career growth plans to retain skilled employees.

Focusing on employee development not only improves your ICV rating but also strengthens your workforce, leading to better productivity and business growth.

3. Hire More UAE Nationals

Employing UAE nationals is a key factor in improving your ICV score, as the program encourages businesses to support local employment. Hiring Emiratis in various roles, especially in skilled and managerial positions, can significantly boost your score.

Companies can also invest in training and development programs for UAE nationals to increase their skills. This not only improves ICV compliance but also contributes to the growth of a strong and capable local workforce.

4. Increase Manufacturing and Production in the UAE

Setting up manufacturing or production activities within the UAE can significantly boost your ICV score. Businesses that produce goods locally instead of importing from other countries contribute directly to the country’s economy and are rewarded with a higher rating.

This is how you can do it:

• Establish production facilities within the UAE to reduce reliance on imports.
• Partner with local manufacturers for sourcing raw materials and components.
• Invest in technology and infrastructure to enhance local production capacity.
• Focus on sustainable and innovative manufacturing solutions to align with UAE’s economic vision.

5. Increase Spending Within the UAE

Spending more within the UAE, whether on services, infrastructure, or business operations, can positively impact your ICV score. Investing in local facilities, renting UAE-based offices, and using homegrown service providers show commitment to the country’s economy. This helps businesses earn a higher ICV rating while also building stronger connections within the local market.

6. Work with ICV-Certified Suppliers

Partnering with ICV-certified suppliers can help improve your own ICV score. Businesses that source materials, equipment, and services from suppliers with high ICV ratings benefit from the program’s scoring structure.

7. Optimize Operational Costs Locally

Reducing costs while keeping spending within the UAE helps improve your ICV score. Businesses should focus on optimizing expenses without relying on imports or foreign services.

• Use local service providers for maintenance, logistics, and consulting.
• Invest in energy-efficient solutions to cut operational costs.
• Reduce dependency on foreign outsourcing by hiring UAE-based talent.

8. Obtain an ICV Certification

Getting officially ICV-certified is essential for businesses looking to raise their score and qualify for government tenders. This certification validates your company’s contributions to the UAE economy and improves business opportunities.

• Apply through an authorized ICV certifying body.
• Make sure financial records align with ICV requirements.
• Regularly update and renew your ICV certification.

How Stratify Can Help You Increase Your ICV Score

We specialize in helping businesses improve their In-Country Value (ICV) score by providing expert guidance and customized strategies. Our team reviews your company’s operations and identifies key areas where you can increase local spending, workforce development, and procurement to raise your ICV rating.

We assist businesses in sourcing from ICV-certified suppliers, reducing operational costs, and meeting ICV certification requirements. Our experts also guide you in improving your financial structure and investment planning to match the UAE’s ICV program.

Your business can achieve a higher ICV score, access more government contracts, and strengthen its market position in the UAE with our professional support. Let Stratify help you make the most of the ICV program effectively and efficiently.