Dubai Awards Dh1.78 Billion in Procurement Contracts to Emirati SMEs

Dubai’s government and private sector entities awarded Dh1.78 billion in procurement contracts to Emirati-owned small and medium enterprises (SMEs) during 2024. The total reflects a 38% increase compared to the previous year, according to data released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Procurement Growth and Major Contributors The contracts were facilitated through the Government Procurement Program (GPP), which requires government departments and entities with at least 25% government ownership to allocate 10% of their procurement spend to Emirati businesses. Dubai Government entities provided the largest portion of the Dh1.78 billion, followed by semi-government bodies and participating private sector firms. Since the GPP was established in 2002, the program has directed more than Dh10 billion toward local entrepreneurs. The recent 38% jump in contract value follows intensified efforts to integrate local suppliers into the emirate’s broader supply chain and increase the competitiveness of UAE-based firms. Impact on Dubai Economic Agenda D33 The increase in contract allocations supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which targets a total economic output of…