ICV Certification for New Companies in the UAE
Last updated: June 2026
New companies in the UAE can obtain ICV certification once they have completed their first audited financial year. The certificate requires standalone audited financial statements, which means most startups become eligible 12–18 months after incorporation.
When Can a New Company Get ICV Certified?
ICV certification requires standalone audited financial statements covering a full financial year. A company incorporated in January 2026 completing its first financial year in December 2026 can typically obtain its first certificate in Q1–Q2 2027 after the audit completes.
What New Companies Need to Prepare
- UAE trade licence
- Standalone audited financial statements (group accounts not accepted since January 2025)
- Payroll records showing Emirati and expatriate wages
- Supplier invoices with ICV certificates of suppliers where applicable
- Fixed asset register
- Training expenditure records
Design Your ICV Score From Day One
The highest-scoring companies design for ICV before their first audit rather than optimising afterwards. Key early decisions: hire UAE nationals early (highest component weighting), select ICV-certified suppliers from the start, locate assets and R&D inside the UAE, and document training spend on Emirati staff.
Bidding Before You Have a Certificate
Companies without a certificate receive a default zero ICV score in tender evaluations. Some entities accept an ICV Improvement Plan from new suppliers committing to certification within a defined period. This varies by authority — ADNOC and Tawazun tender documents specify the applicable rules per tender.
Free Zone vs Mainland Considerations
Both free zone and mainland companies can obtain ICV certification. The score calculation is identical. What matters is where economic activity occurs — UAE-based wages, procurement, and assets count regardless of licence type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a new company get ICV certified in the UAE?
Yes, once it has completed its first audited financial year. Most new companies become eligible for ICV certification 12–18 months after incorporation.
Can startups bid on ADNOC tenders without an ICV certificate?
Companies without a certificate receive a default zero ICV score. Some tenders accept an ICV Improvement Plan committing to certification — requirements vary per tender.
Do free zone companies qualify for ICV certification?
Yes. Free zone and mainland companies are scored identically. The calculation depends on where economic activity occurs, not the licence type.
What documents does a new company need for ICV certification?
A UAE trade licence, standalone audited financial statements, payroll records, supplier invoices, a fixed asset register, and training expenditure records.
How much does a first ICV certification cost?
Between AED 150,000 and AED 400,000 depending on company size and certifying body, plus the cost of the prerequisite audited financial statements.
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