In recent years, Dubai has taken significant strides to bolster its support for local businesses, particularly through the Emirati Supplier Program. This initiative not only strengthens the economy but also empowers Emirati entrepreneurs by connecting them with government contracts and procurement opportunities. A recent review by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum highlighted the impressive outcomes of this program.

Growth of the Emirati Supplier Program

The Emirati Supplier Program is overseen by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, which operates under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. In 2025, the program facilitated contracts worth an astonishing AED1.78 billion for Emirati small and medium enterprises (SMEs), showcasing a 38 percent increase compared to the previous year. Among these contracts, government entities dominated the landscape, contributing AED1.03 billion. This was followed by semi-government entities, which provided AED420.5 million, while the private sector and federal entities contributed AED254.9 million and AED74.6 million, respectively.

The program boasts the involvement of 84 entities and encompasses 1,070 Emirati establishments. This extensive network reflects Dubai’s dedication to fortifying local SMEs and amplifying the role of Emirati businesses within the emirate’s economic framework. By prioritizing local talent, the Emirati Supplier Program signifies a commitment to enhancing home-grown enterprise capabilities and procurement avenues.

Support for Entrepreneurs

Sheikh Hamdan articulated the program’s central mission during his recent review, stating, “This program reflects our ambition to create the world’s most empowering environment for entrepreneurs in Dubai. Emiratis will always remain at the heart of our priorities.” This vision emphasizes that supporting local entrepreneurs isn’t merely a benevolent gesture; it is a strategic investment in Dubai’s future. By nurturing the potential of its citizens and fostering the companies that will drive economic development, the Emirati Supplier Program is directly aligned with the goals established in the Dubai Economic Agenda, known as D33.

One of the program’s significant features is that Emirati entrepreneurs are given precedence for government contracts, enabling them to more readily access funding and resources. Participation in the Emirati Supplier Program comes with several financial advantages, such as waiving supplier registration fees for those engaging with Dubai’s governmental and semi-governmental departments. This financial relief not only lowers barriers to entry but also encourages higher engagement among local SMEs.

Incentives and Benefits for Participants

Moreover, members of the Emirati Supplier Program are not required to provide bid bonds when submitting tenders to government and semi-government entities. This further simplifies the process, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on delivering quality proposals without the added financial burden. In addition, participants in the program can benefit from discounts and exclusive offers from various partner companies aligned with Dubai SME. These incentives are designed to make participation in the Emirati Supplier Program as advantageous as possible, fostering a thriving ecosystem for local businesses.

In conclusion, the Emirati Supplier Program stands as a testament to Dubai’s dedication to strengthening its economy through local enterprise. With significant investments from both government and semi-government entities, the flourishing network of support for Emirati entrepreneurs is set to create lasting impacts on the business landscape in the emirate. As these businesses continue to thrive, they will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping Dubai’s economic future.