Top Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an ICV Certificate in UAE

The ICV certificate in UAE short for In-Country Value certificate—has become a crucial document for businesses looking to participate in government tenders and projects led by entities like ADNOC, Aldar, and other UAE-based semi-government organizations. Introduced to support the UAE’s national economic goals, the ICV program evaluates how much a company contributes to the local economy, considering factors such as local spending, Emirati employment, and manufacturing.

While the certificate brings tangible benefits, including a competitive edge in public procurement, the application process can be complex. Many businesses make common errors that delay approval or lead to rejections. Here are the top mistakes to avoid when applying for an ICV certificate in UAE:

1. Incorrect or Incomplete Financial Statements

Your audited financial statements are the backbone of the ICV calculation. Submitting outdated, incomplete, or unaudited financials is one of the most frequent reasons for delays.

2. Misclassifying Costs and Expenses

The ICV score is heavily dependent on the correct categorization of expenditures like local procurement, Emirati salaries, and investments. Misreporting these values, whether unintentionally or due to lack of clarity, can result in a lower ICV score or outright rejection.

3. Not Understanding Sector-Specific Requirements

Different sectors (manufacturing, service, trading) have slightly different evaluation criteria under the ICV program. Using a one-size-fits-all approach when preparing your documentation is a mistake.

4. Delaying the Certification Process

Many businesses wait until the last moment—often just before bidding on a tender—to apply for the ICV certificate in UAE. This leaves little room to address potential issues or make strategic improvements to boost the ICV score.

5. Choosing the Wrong Certifying Body

Only certain certification bodies are authorized by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) to issue ICV certificates. Choosing a non-accredited or inexperienced provider can waste time and money.

6. Failing to Align Business Strategy with ICV Goals

ICV is not just a one-time certificate—it reflects your ongoing value to the UAE economy. Businesses that fail to integrate ICV principles into their operations (e.g., hiring more Emiratis, sourcing locally) may struggle to improve or maintain their scores over time.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining an ICV certificate in UAE is more than a regulatory formality—it’s a strategic asset that can open doors to lucrative government contracts and long-term partnerships. By avoiding the common mistakes outlined above, your business can streamline the certification process and maximize its in-country value score.