The United Arab Emirates has long recognised the importance of building a resilient economy that extends beyond oil revenues. To support this vision, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) launched the In-Country Value Program. This initiative, also known as the ADNOC ICV Program, is designed to stimulate economic diversification, foster private sector growth, and create more opportunities for Emirati talent.
Since its launch, the programme has attracted significant attention from local and international suppliers, as it not only benefits the UAE economy but also enhances the competitiveness of participating companies. By prioritising suppliers with higher ICV contributions, ADNOC has created a strong incentive for businesses to invest in local manufacturing and workforce development. In this article, we discover all about the ADNOC ICV Program - from its objectives to the benefits. Read on to know more.
Back to topWhat is the ADNOC ICV Program?
Launched in 2018, the ADNOC ICV Program aims to localise goods and services across ADNOC’s supply chain. It aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy for economic diversification under Abu Dhabi Vision 2030. This programme measures the contribution of companies towards the UAE economy and rewards them based on it, creating a more sustainable and self-reliant industrial ecosystem.
A case study published in 2024 revealed that the programme had redirected AED 187 billion to the country’s economy. In simple terms, the ADNOC ICV Program ensures that the money spent by ADNOC contributes to strengthening the UAE’s economy and supporting national development goals.
Back to topObjectives of the ADNOC ICV Program
The ADNOC ICV Program has been designed to meet several strategic goals. They include:
- Boosting Localisation - Increasing the procurement of goods and services from UAE-based suppliers.
- Supporting Emiratisation - Creating more employment opportunities and training programmes for UAE nationals.
- Enhancing Economic Diversification - Encouraging businesses to invest in industries beyond oil and gas, such as technology and manufacturing.
- Developing the Private Sector - Building resilience and competitiveness among local SMEs and large enterprises.
- Sustainable Growth - Aligning with UAE’s long-term vision for a diversified and knowledge-based economy.
These objectives highlight why the ADNOC in-country value initiative is considered one of the most impactful national programmes in the UAE.
Back to topHow does the ADNOC ICV Program Work?
Companies can obtain the ADNOC In-Country Value Certificate (ICV) in UAE issued by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) to participate in ADNOC’s tendering process. The programme evaluates companies based on their audited financial statements and measures their contribution to the UAE economy.
Once certified, suppliers are assigned an ADNOC ICV score that reflects their level of local contribution. Companies with higher scores receive preference in ADNOC’s procurement process, giving them a competitive advantage when bidding for contracts. This standardised process ensures transparency and fairness across all applicants.
Companies interested in bidding for ADNOC contracts must go through ADNOC ICV registration and maintain valid certification.
Key Components of ICV Score Calculation
The ADNOC ICV score is determined using several key components, each reflecting a company’s contribution to the local economy. According to ADNOC’s official framework, these include:
- Goods manufactured locally - Preference for companies investing in UAE-based manufacturing facilities.
- Third-Party spending - Expenditure on goods and services from UAE suppliers.
- Emiratisation - Proportion of Emirati employees in the workforce.
- Expatriate contribution - Productivity and training provided to expatriates.
- Investment in assets - Capital spent on local infrastructure and R&D.
- Exports - Revenue generated from international sales that support the UAE economy.
These factors are clearly defined in the ADNOC ICV guidelines, ensuring that companies understand how their performance will be assessed. A business setup in Abu Dhabi aiming to improve scores must focus on hiring Emiratis, sourcing more locally, and building UAE-based facilities.
Back to topBenefits of the ADNOC ICV Program
The advantages of ADNOC ICV Program are multi-fold. It contributes to the UAE economy, workforce, and research and development. Below are some of the key benefits of the ADNOC in-country value program:
- For the UAE economy: According to reports, more than AED 200 billion is expected to flow back into the economy over the next five years through the program.
- For suppliers: Companies with higher ICV scores stand a better chance of winning lucrative ADNOC contracts.
- For the workforce: Increased employment opportunities and skill development programmes for Emiratis.
- For innovation: The programme increases incentives for local R&D and advanced technology adoption.
By aligning business incentives with national goals, the ADNOC ICV initiative ensures long-term economic sustainability and industrial competitiveness.
Back to topChallenges and Considerations
The ADNOC ICV Program offers several opportunities, especially for SMEs in UAE. However, the programme also poses certain challenges, including:
- Compliance - Companies must carefully follow updated ADNOC ICV guidelines and maintain proper records.
- Costs for SMEs - Smaller firms may find it difficult to initially meet certification requirements.
- Ongoing monitoring - Businesses must regularly update financials and workforce data to keep their certification valid.
- Adaptability - Firms need to align operations with evolving national objectives under the ADNOC ICV strategy.
Despite these challenges, the long-term benefits of participation outweigh the hurdles for most businesses.
Back to topHow to Obtain an ADNOC ICV Certificate?
Companies looking to work with ADNOC must secure an official ADNOC ICV certificate. Availing the help of Commitbiz expert business setup consultants helps streamline the process.
Below is a brief overview of the procedure to obtain the certificate in UAE:
Step 1 - Evaluate ICV certification requirements for your sector with Commitbiz’s help.
Step 2 - Collate the required documents.
Step 3 - Submit your application through MoIAT-approved certifying bodies.
Step 4 - Commitbiz will submit all the necessary documents for evaluation.
Step 5 - Receive your ICV certificate in the UAE.
Completing ADNOC ICV registration not only allows your business to qualify for ADNOC trenders, it also demonstrates commitment to UAE’s economic vision.
For a detailed insight into the procedure to obtain an ICV certificate, read this article on ‘In-Country Value Certificate (ICV) in UAE’.
Back to topHow Can Commitbiz Help?
The ADNOC ICV Program is a cornerstone of the UAE’s efforts to build a competitive and sustainable economy. By rewarding companies that invest locally, hire Emiratis, and contribute to innovation, ADNOC has created a powerful mechanism for economic transformation.
For suppliers, participating in the program is not just about compliance, it is about seizing an opportunity to grow alongside one of the region’s most influential economic initiatives. Businesses that embrace the ICV Program today will be well-positioned to succeed in the UAE’s rapidly evolving marketplace. Stay ahead of the curve by availing Commitbiz services. Contact us today to learn more.
Back to topHow long is the ADNOC ICV certificate valid?
The ADNOC ICV certificate is valid for 14 months from the date of issuance. Companies must renew it by submitting updated financial statements to maintain eligibility.
Can international companies apply for the ADNOC ICV program?
Yes, international companies can apply as long as they operate in the UAE or have local branches that can undergo ADNOC ICV registration.
How can a company improve its ADNOC ICV score?
Businesses can increase their score by hiring more Emiratis, investing in local manufacturing, sourcing from UAE-based suppliers, and allocating funds to research and development within the country.
