Everything You Should Know About Getting an ICV Certificate in the UAE

Many suppliers in the UAE want to work with big government and semi-government buyers. But they often hit one roadblock; they do not understand how to qualify for these tenders. They hear about the ICV certificate in the UAE, yet the rules feel unclear. This creates stress, delays, and missed deals.

There is a simple way forward; JCA (Jitendra Chartered Accountants) helps you understand how the ICV system works and what documents you need. This guide explains everything in clear steps so you know exactly how to prepare, apply, and benefit from the ICV certification in the UAE.

What Is the UAE ICV Certificate?

The ICV (In-Country Value) certificate was introduced in 2018 in Abu Dhabi under ADNOC. Later, in 2021, it became a national program managed by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT).

The idea behind the program is simple. Companies that contribute more to the UAE’s economy through local spending, hiring, and investment receive a higher score. Government and semi-government buyers give preference to these suppliers during tender evaluations.

So an ICV certificate is not just a document. It is a major factor that can increase your chances of winning contracts across the UAE.

Why Suppliers Need an ICV Certificate in the UAE

Many organisations, especially government-linked entities, ask for an ICV certificate during tender submissions. When you have a good score:

• You gain better visibility
• You get higher weightage during evaluation
• You stand out against competitors
• You show commitment to local spending

Companies that do not have the certificate often struggle to qualify or lose points during evaluation. Get yours with the help of ICV certification services in the UAE.

Who Needs the ICV Certificate?

Any supplier that wants to work with buyers who follow the National ICV Program should apply. This includes:

• Traders
• Manufacturers
• Service providers
• New companies entering the UAE market

If your business sells products or services to government or semi-government clients, an ICV certificate becomes essential.

Criteria To Get an ICV Certificate in the UAE

Before applying, companies must meet certain rules. These conditions help ensure that the information in the application is valid and accurate.

1. Each License Must Have Its Own Certificate

If a company has many legal entities, each one must get its own certificate. Even if the owner is the same, each license is treated as a separate business.

2. Branches With Similar Activities Can Combine

Branches in the same emirate with the same activity and ownership can get one combined certificate.

3. Figures Must Match the Audited Financial Statements

Every number in the ICV template must match the audited financial statements. The statements must follow IFRS standards.

4. Financial Statements Should Not Be Older Than Two Years

If you are applying in 2024, you cannot use financial statements older than 2022.

5. Rules for New Companies

Companies newer than 10 months may not have audited accounts. They can use management accounts for up to 9 months. If the accounts cover more than 9 months, they must be audited.

6. Certificate Validity

The certificate is valid for 14 months from the date the audited financial statements were issued. You may renew it during the validity period, but the 14-month cycle stays fixed.

7. You Must Use an Approved Certifying Body

Only approved firms, like JCA, can issue ICV certificates. You cannot switch certifying bodies for the same year unless you have a valid reason.

8. Goods Manufacturers vs. Service Providers

• If your company produces and supplies finished goods and holds an industrial license, you will be treated as a Goods Manufacturer.
• If you do not hold an industrial license, you will be treated as a Service Provider.

This classification affects how your score is calculated.

Steps To Apply for the UAE ICV Certification

The process is structured and clear. Here is how companies usually move through the application:

1. Prepare Audited Financial Statements

Your financials must follow IFRS and must be recent. These statements are the base for your score.

2. Fill the ICV Template

The application form is given by MoIAT. You need to enter accurate numbers for local spending, payroll, investments, and other details.

3. Submit Everything to an Approved Certifying Body

The certifying body reviews your documents and checks the figures. Once verified, they issue the ICV certificate with your official score.

4. Use the Certificate for Tenders

You can now attach the certificate to all tender applications for the next 14 months.

How can JCA (Jitendra Chartered Accountants) help?

Getting an ICV certificate in the UAE is one of the smartest steps for suppliers aiming for government work. JCA helps you understand the rules, prepare your documents, and follow the process to a smooth and effective ICV certification. Remember that a good score can open new opportunities, improve your market position, and help your business grow within the UAE. To avail of these benefits, get our ICV certification services in the UAE today!