Emirati Supplier Programme Awards Over AED 1.29 Billion In Contracts To SMEs In 2024

The Emirati Supplier Programme, overseen by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME), facilitated over AED1.29 billion in contracts for Emirati SMEs in 2024. This initiative underscores Dubai's dedication to empowering SMEs, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double Dubai’s economy by 2033. The programme also resonates with the UAE’s Year of Community in 2025, highlighting grassroots entrepreneurship.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, emphasised that supporting SMEs is a strategic priority. He stated that Dubai's commitment to fostering a thriving environment for SMEs is rooted in its belief in entrepreneurship's role in economic resilience and sustainable growth. Under H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's leadership, Dubai has developed a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs.

Since its inception in 2002, Dubai SME has facilitated over AED12 billion in contracts for Emirati-owned businesses across various sectors. The Emirati Supplier Programme requires government departments and entities with at least 25% government equity to allocate 10% of their purchasing to Emirati companies registered with Dubai SME. This policy ensures consistent support for local enterprises.

The 2024 results show strong participation from government, semi-government, federal, and private sectors in SME development. Government entities awarded AED652.8 million in contracts to Dubai SME members, with major contributions from the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, and others. Semi-government organisations contributed AED347.7 million, led by Emirates Group and others.

Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), remarked: "The exceptional achievement of the Emirati Supplier Programme is a testament to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and significantly drives forward the momentum of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33."

This approach has improved service quality among SME members, showcasing their growing ability to excel across key sectors. The focus remains on enabling Emirati businesses to scale effectively and compete globally. These achievements encourage Emirati entrepreneurs to thrive in a competitive economic landscape.

Sector Contributions

The professional service sector played a leading role in 2024 results, accounting for 52% of government contracts through outsourcing services and facility management. The commercial sector followed with 45%, driven by technical devices and electronics as well as food and beverages. The industrial sector contributed 3%, mainly through plastic and food industries.

Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, stated: "Under the guidance of our wise leadership, the Emirati Supplier Programme continues to be a key driver of growth for Emirati entrepreneurs." Over 970 national establishments are now registered under this programme.

Broader Economic Impact

The programme directly supports D33 Agenda goals by expanding procurement opportunities for local businesses. It enhances global competitiveness for homegrown companies while increasing SME contributions to Dubai’s non-oil GDP. This reflects broader efforts towards creating an innovation-driven economy powered by resilient national enterprises.

The private sector also strengthened engagement with Emirati enterprises by awarding AED198.9 million in procurement contracts led by Union Coop and others. Federal sector contributions amounted to AED94.6 million from entities like Emirates Health Services (EHS) under Ministry of Health & Prevention.

For SMEs themselves, this programme boosts confidence in government support while encouraging more businesses to register with Dubai SME for opportunities such as mentorship workshops or financial backing tailored specifically towards them.

The initiative highlights evolving roles within both government/private sectors aimed at bolstering Emirati competitiveness globally while positioning Dubai as an entrepreneurial empowerment model worldwide ensuring its place at forefronts within global economies today.

With inputs from WAM