Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri
Photo: Dubai Government Media Office
The Emirati Supplier Programme, managed by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for SME Development (Dubai SME), has helped Emirati-owned small and medium businesses secure more than AED 1.29 billion worth of contracts in 2024. This major initiative is part of Dubai’s wider strategy to support local businesses and boost the economy, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the city’s economy by 2033. It also reflects the UAE’s focus on the “Year of Community” in 2025, which promotes community-level entrepreneurship and growth.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, emphasized that supporting SMEs is a key priority for the emirate. He said Dubai believes strongly in the role of entrepreneurs in building a strong and sustainable economy. Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the city has created an encouraging and supportive environment for small businesses to thrive.
Since the programme started in 2002, Dubai SME has helped Emirati businesses receive over AED 12 billion in contracts across different sectors. A core rule of the Emirati Supplier Programme is that government entities and companies with at least 25% government ownership must dedicate 10% of their purchases to Emirati businesses registered with Dubai SME. This ensures consistent support for local enterprises and helps them grow steadily.
In 2024, government departments gave out AED 652.8 million in contracts to Dubai SME members. Key contributors included the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, and several others. Semi-government organisations awarded AED 347.7 million worth of contracts, with major involvement from Emirates Group. The private sector also stepped up, providing AED 198.9 million in contracts, led by companies like Union Coop. Additionally, federal entities contributed AED 94.6 million, with strong support from Emirates Health Services and other federal departments.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said the success of this programme reflects the vision and leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He highlighted that this initiative plays a major role in driving the goals of the D33 economic plan and boosting Dubai’s global competitiveness.
The programme has also helped improve service quality among SME members, showing that Emirati companies are becoming more capable and competitive in key industries. The goal is to help these businesses expand their reach and grow on a global level.
In terms of sector performance in 2024, the professional services sector led the way, accounting for 52% of government contracts through outsourcing and facility management services. The commercial sector followed with 45%, especially in technical equipment, electronics, and food and beverages. The industrial sector contributed 3%, mainly in plastic products and food manufacturing.
Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, stated that the programme continues to be a powerful tool in supporting Emirati entrepreneurs, guided by the vision of the UAE leadership. Currently, more than 970 national businesses are registered under this programme.
Overall, the Emirati Supplier Programme is a major step forward in helping local businesses grow, create jobs, and contribute more to Dubai’s non-oil economy. It not only offers contracts but also encourages new businesses to register with Dubai SME for access to mentorship, training, and financial support. The collaboration between government and private sectors shows how Dubai is positioning itself as a global leader in entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable economic development.
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